The Iranian film that will represent France at the Oscars

In a remarkable turn of events, France is stepping onto the world stage with a film that perfectly embodies its vibrant spirit and commitment to global creativity. The selection of “It Was Just an Accident” to represent the country at the Oscars is more than just a nod to cinematic excellence—it's a celebration of France’s role as a haven for artistic voices from every corner of the globe.

Jafar Panahi, a visionary director whose courageous storytelling has overcome formidable obstacles, is now at the heart of this cultural triumph. When it screened at Cannes 2025, the film was hailed by the BBC as “a furious but funny revenge thriller that takes aim at oppressive regimes“.

Imprisoned twice by Iran

To make his film, Panahi had to shoot it clandestinely at avoid the Iranian authorities. He has already been imprisoned twice in his country of origin. His last spell in prison was for protesting against the detention of two fellow Iranian film-makers who had been critical of the authorities.

The filmmaker has already won several international awards, notably in Berlin and Venice. However, he had never competed for the Oscars. “The only way to compete for the Oscars is to be presented by a country, and Iran has never wanted Jafar Panahi to represent Iran,” Philippe Martin, founder of Les Films de Pelléas, which co-produced the film, told AFP.

(ML. Source: Cannes-or-Bust et al. Photo courtesy of Les Films de Pelléas)