Nader Saeivar's film 'Hijamat' is a poignant exploration of personal and societal walls, both literal and metaphorical. The film's world premiere at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival marks a bittersweet moment for Saeivar, who produced and edited the film with his long-time friend and collaborator, Jafar Panahi. Panahi, who co-wrote the Cannes Palme d'Or winner 'It Was Just An Accident', is unable to attend the premiere due to a travel ban and potential prison term in Iran for 'propaganda against the regime'.
Saeivar's personal journey is deeply intertwined with the themes of 'Hijamat'. After moving to Berlin from Iran, he experienced a profound shift in perspective, breaking down the rigid beliefs he had held for decades. This realization is reflected in the film's exploration of the impact of long-buried secrets on a deeply religious Muslim family in Berlin. The film's protagonist, Murad, struggles to protect his younger brother Kerem when he discovers his sexuality, mirroring Saeivar's own experiences and the challenges of questioning one's beliefs.
The concept of 'Hijamat', an ancient therapeutic practice known as wet cupping, serves as a powerful metaphor for the film's central idea: the need to confront and release the 'dirty' blood in our bodies, both literally and metaphorically. Saeivar believes that tackling the issues that build walls around us is essential for political change, and this is reflected in the film's exploration of the impact of rigid beliefs on individuals and communities.
The choice of Kida Khodr Ramadan as the protagonist is deliberate. His fame in Germany and the Arab and Turkish communities in Berlin makes him an ideal ambassador for the film's message. Saeivar's collaboration with Ramadan, whom he compares to the best of Jean Reno, is a testament to the power of personal connections and the importance of reaching out to diverse audiences.
Despite Panahi's absence, the bond between the two filmmakers remains strong. They speak daily, and Panahi is always the first to congratulate Saeivar on new ideas and achievements. This close relationship highlights the importance of mutual support and the power of creative collaboration.
In conclusion, 'Hijamat' is a thought-provoking exploration of personal and societal walls, both literal and metaphorical. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of questioning our beliefs and confronting the issues that build walls around us. Through his personal journey and creative collaboration with Panahi, Saeivar has crafted a film that resonates with audiences worldwide, inviting them to reflect on their own beliefs and the impact they have on our lives and the world around us.
