Iranian cinema boasts a rich and diverse heritage, characterized by its unique storytelling, captivating characters, and thought-provoking narratives. From art-house masterpieces to internationally acclaimed films, Iranian movies have garnered attention and accolades worldwide.

If you’re eager to delve into the world of Iranian cinema and explore the cinematic gems from this culturally rich country, this blog post will guide you on where to watch Iranian movies through various platforms, including streaming services, cinemas, and more.

Explore Iranian films on Angelika Anywhere

We have several films from Iran available to rent or purchase on our website, including the following.

Persepolis (dir. Vincent Paronnaud & Marjane Satrapi) (2007)

Heralded as “epic and deeply moving” by Ebert & Roeper, Academy Award nominated PERSEPOLIS drew massive critical acclaim following its premiere and Jury Prize award at the Cannes Film Festival, and its impressive 96% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. An animated film based on Marjane Satrapi’s autobiographical graphic novel set during the Islamic Revolution, and featuring the voice talents of Chiara Mastroianni (ON A MAGICAL NIGHT, BELOVED) and Oscar nominees Catherine Deneuve (THE MIDWIFE, belle de JOUR) and Gena Rowlands (THE SKELETON KEY, A WOMAN UNDER THE INFLUENCE).

Watch Now: https://www.angelikaanywhere.com/film/persepolis/

Sun Children (dir. Majid Majidi) (2021)

Shortlisted for the Academy Award for the Best International Feature Film category, SUN CHILDREN is a “visually stunning and emotionally stirring” (Hollywood Reporter) Venice Film Festival award winner, rated an impeccable 95% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. The film follows a 12-year-old, Ali, and his friends who work hard to survive and support their families. In a turn of events that seems miraculous, Ali is entrusted to find hidden treasure underground. Directed by acclaimed Iranian director, Majid Majidi (CHILDREN OF HEAVEN, BARAN).

Watch Now: https://www.angelikaanywhere.com/film/sun-children/

Baran (dir. Majid Majidi) (2001)

A stunningly emotional love story, BARAN, directed by Majid Majidi (CHILDREN OF HEAVEN, SUN CHILDREN, THE COLOR OF PARADISE) is the story of two workers on a construction site as Baran, played by Zahra Bahrami (KINGSLAYER, TWEEZERS) hides her identity as a girl to keep working, where she and Lateef, played by Hossein Abedini (THE LIZARD, TABOO, 3 DEGREES OF FEVER) fall in love. When all Afghani workers are forced to be fired from the site, Lateef struggles to find a way for them to remain together. The Los Angeles Times says the film “Brings an irresistible blend of warmth and humor and a consistent embracing humanity in the face of life’s harshness.”

Watch Now: https://www.angelikaanywhere.com/film/baran/

Desert One (dir. Barbara Kopple) (2019)

Using new archival sources and unprecedented access, master documentarian and two-time Academy Award winner Barbara Kopple reveals the story behind one of the most daring rescues in modern US history: a secret mission to free hostages of the 1979 Iranian revolution. Rated 94% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, Toronto International Film Festival Official Selection DESERT ONE is both comprehensive and fascinating, and was heralded by critics as “engrossing” (Variety) and “fascinating” (Hollywood Reporter).

Watch Now: https://www.angelikaanywhere.com/film/desert-one/

Children of Heaven (dir. Majid Majidi) (1997)

When young Ali (Amir Farrokh Hashemian) accidentally loses the only pair of shoes his little sister Zahra (Bahare Seddiqi) owns, the siblings attempt to hide the bad news from their poverty-stricken father (Mohammad Amir Naji) and ill mother (Fereshte Sarabandi). They devise a scheme to share Ali’s own pair of worn sneakers until they can find a new pair of shoes for Zahra. From director/writer Majid Majidi, this documentary-like film was shot on location in some of Tehran’s poorest areas. Chicago Sun-Times raves, “CHILDREN OF HEAVEN is very nearly a perfect movie for children, and of course that means adults will like it, too.”

Watch Now: https://www.angelikaanywhere.com/film/children-of-heaven/ 

Where to Watch Iranian Cinema

The world of Iranian cinema is a treasure trove of storytelling, filled with unique narratives, captivating characters, and thought-provoking themes. Thanks to streaming services, international film festivals, local cinemas, and dedicated online platforms, accessing Iranian movies has never been easier for a global audience.

Streaming Services – A Gateway to Iranian Cinema

Streaming services have become a game-changer in accessing diverse content, including Iranian movies. Platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video offer an ever-expanding collection of Persian movies with English subtitles as well as dubbing, allowing a global audience to explore the richness of Iranian cinema. Subscription-based services like MUBI also feature curated selections of Iranian films that cater to cinephiles seeking unique and thought-provoking content.

Iranian Film Festivals – Celebrating the Art of Cinema

Numerous international film festivals, such as the Berlin International Film Festival and Cannes Film Festival, dedicate sections to showcase Iranian films. Attending these festivals or exploring their online platforms grants you access to a wide range of contemporary Iranian cinema, often accompanied by discussions and Q&A sessions with the filmmakers themselves.

Iranian Cinemas – Immerse Yourself in the Authentic Experience

If you have the opportunity to visit Iran or live in regions with Iranian cultural influence, local cinemas might regularly screen Iranian movies. Watching these films in a theater immerses you in the authentic ambiance and cultural context of the stories, providing a more immersive experience.

Local Cinemas and Art-House Theaters – A Platform for Iranian Films

In countries with substantial Iranian communities, local cinemas and art-house theaters often showcase a selection of Iranian movies. These screenings cater to both Iranian expatriates longing for a taste of their homeland and cinema enthusiasts eager to explore the unique perspectives of Iranian filmmakers.

Iranian TV Channels – A Glimpse into Iranian Culture

Some international TV channels offer programs that include Iranian films and TV series. These channels provide an opportunity to watch Iranian content with English subtitles, making it accessible to a broader audience and offering a glimpse into Iranian culture and storytelling.

Online Streaming Platforms – Explore Iranian Cinema Anywhere

In addition to mainstream streaming services, several online platforms specialize in Iranian movies. These platforms may require a subscription or offer free access to a selection of Iranian films, making it easy to watch Iranian movies from anywhere in the world.

Iranian Directors – A Key to Discovering Iranian Cinema

Many renowned Iranian directors have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. Exploring the filmography of visionary directors like Abbas Kiarostami, Asghar Farhadi, and Jafar Panahi can provide a gateway to the diverse and captivating world of Iranian cinema.

Explore Iran’s Culture Through Their Filmmaking

Whether you’re watching Iranian films for the first time or seeking more diverse content, the platforms mentioned in this blog post offer a gateway to explore the richness and cultural significance of Iranian cinema. So, grab your popcorn, immerse yourself in the captivating tales of Iranian directors, and embark on a cinematic journey that transcends borders and connects cultures.
As you already know by now, the Angelika Film Center strives to bring you the best films, whether Iranian or from other countries around the world. Stay tuned for more!