Gharizeh

Iran in the early 1960s: The world is still a big dream of freedom, exuberance and Technicolor, at least in the eyes of sixteen-year-old Atieh (Saina Rohanie in an impressive debut). Together with her mother, she visits Rassoul, a longtime friend of her late father, in his small village and, upon her arrival, meets his fourteen-year-old son Kamran (new discovery Mahdiar Shahmohammadi). Kamran is immediately enraptured by Atieh’s charisma, and it doesn’t take long for the two teens to become close. Kamran takes Atieh into the previously unknown world of cinema, whose heroes, villains and adventures he is already passionately addicted to. A magical summer takes its course – at the end of which waits a shattering decision that will change both of them forever.

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یک داستان عاشقانه است که در اواخر دهه 1340 شمسی رخ می‌دهد و یک اتفاق تلخ، سرنوشت شخصیت‌های آن را به طور غیرمنتظره‌ای تغییر می‌دهد…

Gharizeh: A Technicolor Coming-of-Age Tale Set in 1960s Iran

Set against the atmospheric backdrop of late 1960s Iran (the late 1340s in the Iranian solar calendar), director Siavash As’adi’s feature film Gharizeh (also known as Instinct) offers a poignant exploration of youth, cinema, and romance. Slated for a release on June 19, 2026, this evocative Iranian drama beautifully blends a nostalgic coming-of-age narrative with the bittersweet realities of human emotion and unexpected fate.

Plot & Themes: Love, Cinema, and Innocence Lost

The narrative revolves around sixteen-year-old Atieh (portrayed by impressive newcomer Saina Rohani), who travels with her mother to a modest rural village to visit Rassoul, a close friend of her late father. Upon her arrival, Atieh meets Rassoul’s fourteen-year-old son, Kamran (new discovery Mahdiar Shahmohammadi). Instantly captivated by Atieh’s charm, Kamran welcomes her into his personal sanctuary: the enchanting world of classic cinema. As Kamran shares his passion for silver-screen heroes and colorful cinematic adventures, a delicate romantic bond blossoms between the two teenagers during an idyllic summer.

However, Gharizeh is more than a simple youth romance. Beneath its dreamy Technicolor veneer, a sudden, tragic event unfolds that profoundly impacts the lives of the characters, forcing them to confront harsh realities and altered destinies.

Siavash As’adi’s Cinematic Vision & Production

Director Siavash As’adi, recognized for his distinct visual style in acclaimed Iranian films such as Darkhongah and Ghibat-e Soghri, brings a rich period aesthetic to Gharizeh. The production design meticulously reconstructs the late 1960s Iranian landscape, contrasting the vibrant promise of youthful freedom with the quiet traditions of village life. As’adi uses cinema as a powerful motif—mirroring the young protagonists’ desires against the dramatic storytelling of classic movies.

Performances & Cast Highlights

The film’s emotional resonance hinges on its dynamic combination of fresh talent and veteran Iranian screen icons:

• Saina Rohani & Mahdiar
  • 2024