Iranian filmmaker Babak Khajehpasha’s latest feature, “Land of Angels,” is scheduled for its international debut at the 22nd Altyn Minbar Kazan International Film Festival, set to be held from September 4 to 8 in Kazan, the capital of Russia’s Republic of Tatarstan. The event marks the beginning of the film’s circulation beyond Iran.

Written and directed by Khajehpasha and produced by Manouchehr Mohammadi, the film is a joint production by the Tasvir-e Shahr Institute and the Soureh Cinema Center. “Land of Angels” explores the human impact of conflict in Gaza, telling the story of a woman who strives to protect a group of children amid the horrors of war. Featuring Arab actors, the film aims to provide an intimate narrative centered on the experiences, hopes, and struggles of Palestinian children affected by the ongoing crisis.

Before its upcoming international screening, “Land of Angels” was the most awarded film at the 44th Fajr Film Festival in Tehran earlier this year, acquiring five Crystal Simorgh awards and eight honorary diplomas. Babak Khajehpasha received a special jury prize for best director, while Syrian actress Sulaf Fawakherji earned a jury special prize for her role in the production. Additionally, Payam Hossein Souri was recognized for Best Set Design, and Mohammad Hassan Izadi won for Best Visual Effects.

Coinciding with the film’s international premiere, two official posters have been unveiled, featuring designs in English and Arabic by prominent Iranian graphic designer Mohammad Rouholamin.

The Altyn Minbar Kazan International Film Festival, established in 2005, is among Russia’s notable cultural events focusing on films that address human, cultural, social, and spiritual themes. The 2023 edition carries special significance as Kazan has been designated the Cultural Capital of the Islamic World this year. The festival serves as a platform for fostering cultural dialogue and cooperation between the Islamic world and Russia, supported by parallel programs such as the Russia–Islamic World: KazanForum.

This year’s festival received a record 1,030 submissions from 66 countries across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. A total of 146 films were selected for both competition and non-competition categories. In addition to screenings, the event will offer business and educational activities, including an international pitching session, film education programs, and a film laboratory in Bolgar.

The Altyn Minbar Film Festival remains an important venue for international film premieres and cultural exchange, reinforcing Kazan’s role as a vibrant hub for engagement between Russia and the broader Islamic world.