Alone / Asho

Two documentary films by Iranian director Jafar Najafi in a double feature:

ALONE
The 14-year-old shepherd boy Amir plays, laughs, and argues with his younger sisters in their sheep pasture in Iran. But his nervous tugging at the grass reveals the deep conflict within him: Since his father died several years ago, Amir has had to take on the role of head of the family and responsibility for his sisters. His inner voice tells him that he cannot allow the 12-year-old girls to be married off. At the same time, he does not want to upset his family or casually defy the traditions of the village community. We follow Amir in his lonely struggle against patriarchal structures. Dayela Valenzuela

The film had its international premiere at the Venice Film Festival in the Giornate degli Autori (Venice Days) section, was also screened at DOK.fest Munich, and received numerous awards at international film festivals.

ASHO

The shepherd boy loves acting and dreams of Hollywood. Between tending the sheep and teasing his cousin Pari, he is a passionate movie fan. He admires Johnny Depp, loves Emma Stone, but does not want to see his future bride on camera. Pari sees things differently: if Asho becomes a star, then she should be one too. But both of them already are stars: Until the big breakthrough, the family, the landscape, and the sheep named after celebrities are the audience.