Oskouei, who was present at the sidelines of the French Documentary Perspective in Tehran, said that documentary cinema is a promising medium, a "cinema truth"
able to illustrate the realities of life through dissimilar subjects, "yet it seems like there is no ambition for professional development of such genre in Iran."
He cited the improper screening location and equipment as major headaches for the industry, adding, "Even if that is the case, they are temporarily." He likewise continued that "advertising, marketing, and cultural exchanges between countries through cultural weeks and film festivals are the best routes for technical and social development of the industry."
Oskouei stated that the French Documentary Perspective is a unique opportunity, which opens up new avenues for documentary film production in Iran.
Documentaries are carefully structured television and radio programs that explore real-life subjects in detail. They deal with life-history, culture, and the natural world, as well as topical events. They examine these issues in depth and aim to be authoritative. To this end, documentaries use primary sources — people and documents close to the subjects or expert narration. Some use realism to convey authority, as in Cinema Verite.
The cultural event which started on June 13 at Felestin Cinema is showcasing some of the most important French documentaries made so far, lasting till June 19.
G.N/MR