The press conference for the Iranian film “He Doesn’t Sleep” was held on Thursday evening, November 27, at Honar Shahr Aftab Cineplex in Shiraz, with director Reza Jamali, producer Ali Nouri Oskouie, and actor Hossein Abedini in attendance.
“He Doesn’t Sleep” is part of the International Competition section of the 43rd Fajr International Film Festival. The film stars Abedini, Nader Mehdilou, and Naser Mohebbi. It tells the story of a 65-year-old man from a border village who suffers from war-induced insomnia. While locals search for ways to help him sleep, his sleeplessness enables him to assist others tirelessly and selflessly.
At the start of the press conference, Jamali emphasized the importance of language in regional cinema. “When we discuss a particular region and geography, we cannot ignore its language,” he said. “Language gives authenticity to a film, and living in a specific region requires using the local language; otherwise, the film loses its essence. I grew up in that area and tried to incorporate its unique features into the film. Our diverse cultures enrich Iranian cinema, which is why we see such varied films in the country. Supporting these films is important. Today, I saw that foreign audiences appreciated the film, which shows that we are on the right path.”
Actor Hossein Abedini shared his admiration for Jamali’s work. “I have always loved Mr. Jamali’s cinema,” he said. “Artistic works appear in my career, and I had hoped and prayed to appear in one of his films. Previously, he made a film titled ‘Old Men Don’t Die,’ and I was offered a role, which did not happen. I am grateful that this opportunity arose in ‘He Doesn’t Sleep.’”
Producer Ali Nouri Oskouie praised Jamali’s approach. “I am happy to have worked alongside this modest yet profound filmmaker,” he said. “Many ask why I collaborate with him. I have followed Jamali’s films at international festivals, and foreign audiences appreciate them. The language of cinema matters more than regional or local dialects. I work with a director who knows how to make films. For me, language is secondary; what matters is the cinematic language.”
Jamali also discussed the casting process. “Almost eighty percent of our actors were non-professionals,” he said. “One actor had worked with me in my previous film, so we cast him again in ‘He Doesn’t Sleep.’”
Regarding the film’s visual composition, Jamali explained, “The static frames were deliberate because the main character is static, and time seems to have stopped for him. I wanted to convey stillness through the shots.”
Addressing the concept of borders in the film, Jamali remarked, “When we focus on human values, borders become meaningless. The film shows that while the world is filled with war and bloodshed, borders can also witness birth. Violence can be overcome. When I screened the film for border guards, they told me how well I perceived this humanity. Our film attempts to communicate without hesitation.”
Producer Oskouie added, “I have made films in South Korea, Turkey, France, and elsewhere. As I said, my language is the language of cinema. As a producer, I observe how directors work in different regions. If a director in Sistan and Baluchestan or Kurdistan makes a good film, I will support them. For me, cinema is above borders.”
Shiraz is hosting the 43rd Fajr International Film Festival from November 26 to December 3, 2025.
