Iranian Filmmaker Jafar Panahi Returns Cannes After Prison, Travel Ban Lifted

Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi made a significant return to the Cannes Film Festival after more than 15 years, following his release from prison and the lifting of a long-standing travel ban. His latest film, "It Was Just an Accident," premiered to a nearly eight-minute standing ovation and reflects the pain and fury of incarceration under Iran's regime. Panahi expressed mixed emotions, acknowledging the joy of his presence at Cannes while lamenting the continued imprisonment and suppression of other Iranian filmmakers involved in the Femme Liberte movement. Despite the risks of showcasing his work internationally, Panahi remains committed to filmmaking as a form of resistance and expression. Meanwhile, Indian actors Vishal Pandey and Boman Irani also made notable appearances at Cannes, marking important milestones in their careers and highlighting the growing global recognition of Indian cinema. Their presence alongside Panahi underscores the festival's role as a platform for diverse international voices and stories.