Un simple accident unfolds with a seemingly trivial event: a man named Eghbal, traveling with his pregnant wife and child, accidentally kills a dog on a desolate road. Seeking assistance, he arrives at a garage where mechanic Vahid becomes convinced that Eghbal is the very torturer who once inflicted unbearable pain upon him during his imprisonment. What ensues is a tense narrative exploring themes of vengeance, identity, and the complexities of justice. As Vahid grapples with his suspicions, he assembles a group of former political prisoners, each bearing their own scars from past abuses. Together, they confront the haunting question: Is retribution justified when certainty is elusive?
Panahi, renowned for his unwavering critique of Iran's authoritarian regime, crafted this film clandestinely, defying a longstanding ban on filmmaking and travel imposed by Iranian authorities. The production was marked by secrecy, with filming conducted without official permits and actresses appearing without the compulsory hijab, a bold statement against oppressive mandates.
The director's presence at Cannes was both symbolic and poignant. In his acceptance speech, Panahi dedicated the award to the people of Iran, expressing hope for a future where freedom prevails: "Hoping that we will reach a day when no one will tell us what to wear or not wear, what to do or not do."