Directors Mohammad Rasoulof signs the Golden Book

Hamburg's First Mayor Dr Peter Tschentscher: "With his critical films, Mohammad Rasoulof draws the world's attention to the social and political conditions in Iran. His entry in the city's Golden Book emphasises Hamburg's appreciation of his artistic achievements and his commitment to democracy, freedom and human rights. His film 'The Seeds of the Sacred Fig Tree' is a great international success. The content and the circumstances under which it was made are depressing. I am delighted to welcome Mohammad Rasoulof to his adopted home of Hamburg after his dramatic escape from Iran."

Dr Carsten Brosda, Senator for Culture and Media: "Mohammad Rasoulof's films are an impressive plea for human rights and freedom of expression. I am delighted that we are able to support his important work through the MOIN Film Fund and Hamburg's vibrant film scene and that this impressive film, which was made in Iran, has entered the Oscar race for Germany. Once again, the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg is showing that its commitment to artistic freedom must not remain lip service, but must be translated into concrete help. We want to continue to be a safe harbour for people who have the courage to raise their voices for freedom and democracy. Thank you Mohammad Rasoulof!"

The Iranian-German-French Arte France co-production "The Seeds of the Sacred Fig Tree" was produced by the Hamburg production company Run Way Pictures and financially supported by MOIN Film Fund. Also involved from the Hanseatic city: editor Andrew Bird ("Soul Kitchen", "Tschick", "Into the Fate") as well as Optical Art and Loft Studios for post production. The film is about Iman, who has just been promoted to investigating judge at the Revolutionary Court in Tehran when a huge protest movement sweeps the country following the death of a young woman. Although the demonstrations increase and the state takes ever tougher measures, Iman decides to side with the regime, upsetting the balance of his family.

The film was one of the five titles in the running for the Oscar for Best International Film 2025.

At the 77th Cannes International Film Festival, Mohammad Rasoulof won the Special Jury Prize, among other honours. In addition to its German premiere at Filmfest Hamburg, the film was also shown in Locarno at the Piazza Grande and at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2024. It was also nominated for the Golden Globes (Best Picture in non-English language), the BAFTA Awards (Film not in English language) and the French film prize César (Best Foreign Film). The film has been nominated six times for the German Film Award, which will be presented in Berlin on 9 May.