The feature film 'I Am Nero' directed by Rafi Pitts, an Iranian filmmaker residing abroad, has been selected for the competition section of the 66th Berlin International Film Festival. The official website of the festival announced on Wednesday, January 20, the names of eight new films for participation in both the competition and non-competition sections. Besides 'I Am Nero/Soy Nero' produced in collaboration between Germany, France, and Mexico, Spike Lee's new film 'Chi-Raq' will also be featured in the non-competition section. 'I Am Nero' is considered Rafi Pitts' fifth feature film; he previously participated in the Berlin Festival with his two films 'The Hunter' and 'It’s Winter' in 2010 and 2006, respectively. His new film was shot in Los Angeles, USA, and two cities in Mexico. The film tells the story of a nineteen-year-old Mexican named Nero who seeks to obtain American citizenship. He joins the U.S. Army as a volunteer to gain citizenship through military service, but the army sends him to the Middle East to fight, where Nero becomes trapped. The film is made in English. Malek-Jahan Khazaei, a seasoned set and costume designer in Iranian cinema, alongside Rafi Pitts, are the only Iranian contributors to 'I Am Nero.' Malek-Jahan Khazaei serves as the film's art director. Most other crew members are American, with experience in various films and series. Johnny Ortiz, who has acted in Michael Mann's film 'Ali,' plays the role of 'Nero' in Rafi Pitts' film. This year, four Iranian films will be screened in different sections at the Berlin Festival. The films 'The Dragon Arrives' by Mani Haqiqi in the competition section, 'Lantouri' directed by Reza Dormishian in the Panorama section, 'Valderama' by Abbas Amini, and the documentary 'Dream of Dawn' by Mehrdad Oskoui will be showcased in the side section of the festival. This year's festival will kick off with the film 'Hail, Caesar!' by the Coen brothers in the non-competition section. Renowned American actress Meryl Streep will preside over the jury of this festival. Last year, Jafar Panahi's 'Taxi' represented Iran in the competition section and won the Golden Bear for Best Film. The 66th Berlin Festival will take place from February 11 (22 Bahman) to February 21 (2 Esfand).
Rafi Pitts' 'I Am Nero' Competes at the Berlin Festival
Rafi Pitts' film 'I Am Nero' has been selected for the competition at the Berlin International Film Festival, highlighting the story of a young Mexican seeking U.S. citizenship through military service. This marks Pitts' continued presence at international film festivals, showcasing Iranian cinema on a global stage.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
Rafi Pitts' film 'I Am Nero' has been selected for the competition at the Berlin International Film Festival, focusing on a young Mexican's quest for U.S. citizenship through military service. This selection highlights the continued presence of Iranian filmmakers in global cinema.
- The film is Pitts' fifth feature and was shot in the USA and Mexico.
- Four Iranian films will be showcased at the Berlin Festival this year.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Iranian cinema has a rich history of storytelling that often reflects social and political issues, gaining recognition at international film festivals. Rafi Pitts is known for his exploration of identity, making his works significant in the context of Iranian diaspora narratives.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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