New Film Cast Aside The Clouds Spotlights Baha’i Persecution in Iran

A new romantic thriller shines a light on religious persecution in Iran. The film, Cast Aside The Clouds, is directed by Mary Darling. It recently screened at the Hamilton Film Festival.

The story follows a forbidden romance between a Baha’i woman and a secular Muslim doctor. It explores themes of faith and family opposition against a backdrop of state-sanctioned pressure.

Delicate Storytelling Aims to Overcome Prejudice

Director Mary Darling deliberately delayed revealing the main character’s faith. She wanted audiences to connect with the character first. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Darling held this revelation until page 30 of the script.

The film features Parmiss Sehat as Layla, a Baha’i woman seeking an education. Behtash Fazlali plays Dr. Sasan Naderi, the man who falls for her. Their love is tested by societal and governmental forces.

Broader Themes of Global Religious Persecution

The narrative connects the Baha’i struggle in Iran to a wider global context. It implicitly references the plight of other persecuted groups worldwide. This underscores a central theme of the need for unity.

The film’s creators hope it will spark curiosity and dialogue. It aims to present human stories without being overtly preachy. The goal is to let viewers arrive at their own conclusions about tolerance.

The film Cast Aside The Clouds uses a personal love story to illuminate the harsh reality of Baha’i persecution in Iran. It represents a significant effort to bring a hidden struggle to an international audience. This story highlights ongoing human rights concerns that demand global attention.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the Baha’i faith?

The Baha’i faith is a relatively modern religion. It emphasizes the unity of all people and major world religions. Its followers in Iran face systematic persecution from the government.

Why are Baha’is persecuted in Iran?

The Iranian government considers the Baha’i faith a heretical offshoot of Islam. This official stance leads to state-sanctioned discrimination. Baha’is are often denied higher education and face imprisonment.

Who is the director of the film?

Mary Darling co-wrote and directed Cast Aside The Clouds. She is also known for co-creating the Canadian sitcom Little Mosque on the Prairie. Her work often focuses on breaking down cultural and religious stereotypes.

What is the main plot of the movie?

The plot follows a romance between a Baha’i woman and a Muslim doctor in Tehran. Their relationship is tested by family opposition and state persecution. The woman’s imprisonment for her faith creates a central crisis.

Where has the film been screened?

The film has been presented at the Hamilton Film Festival in Ontario. Festival screenings are a common first step for independent films. They help build audience awareness before wider distribution.