Documentary
"Children of the Prophet" Iran / Austria 2008 - Sunday, Nov 2, 6:30pm
This colorful and engaging documentary allows a rare glimpse of everyday life in Teheran as it follows four groups of protagonists during the Shiite mourning rituals of Moharram, commemorating the death of Imam Hossein, the grandson of the Prophet Mohammad.
The martyrdom of the Twelver-Shia’s third Imam in 680AD is a historically defining moment for Shia identity. Nowhere are the rites and rituals as elaborate and widespread as in Iran, the only Muslim country with a Shia population over 90%. The film goes to the heart of the rituals through the perspective of the protagonists, their beliefs and the various roles the ceremonies play in the lives of different people.
We follow them closely in their everyday lives and how they prepare for the festival and experience each part of the ritual through their personal approach and viewpoint. All over Tehran and other Iranian cities people relive Imam Hossein’s story every year with passion plays, self-flagellation and processions carrying the Alam, ornate heavy metal structures up to 20 meters wide.
They cook and share large amounts of food among family, friends, neighbours and the needy.The 10 day ceremonies culminate on Ashura, the anniversary of the battle of Karbala that cost Imam Hossein’s and his 72 companions their lives.
cast & crew
Sudabeh Mortezai (Director, Writer )
