The latest release from multi-award winning Iranian writer director Mohammad Rasoulof, whose uncompromising approach has seen his work banned from his native country, and earned him a year in prison. A taut, finely woven drama based on the true story of the government’s attempted 1995 murder of several prominent writers and intellectuals, the film revolves around two overlapping tales: A professional killer seeking money for his ailing child; whilst a circle of writers are menaced by a powerful secret service agent with much to lose by the publication of certain manuscripts. A cat-and-mouse game ensues against a backdrop of generational amnesia and popular indifference, as brutality overwhelms conscience and despotism haunts the oblivious streets.
Manuscripts Don’t Burn screens in Sydney as part of the 3rd Persian International Film Festival and is part of their opening night celebrations. More info/tix
