“A powerful film about the importance of performance that perceptively knows what it wants to be and approaches its artistic goals with confidence and defiance.” - Robert Daniels, RogerEbert.com
“Shot entirely in secret like recent Jafar Panahi films, and paying homage to Abbas Kiarostami in the title, Hossein Keshavarz and Maryam Ataei's film is both freshly contemporary and rooted in history.” - Tomris Laffly, Variety
“Although this is a story about innocence lost, the overwhelming impression left by THE FRIEND'S HOUSE IS HERE is one of sweetness and hope.” - Katie Rife, The Wrap
Opens December 18 | Roommates Hana and Pari create a joyous found family through collaborative projects and personal relationships in Tehran’s underground art scene. Both women nurture rebellious creative practices that challenge the status quo: Hana creates dances to perform in view of historic landmarks and Pari writes and stages politically minded plays. Their affectionate friendship is told through a series of tender and lively vignettes that roam through rehearsals, dinner parties, and the rooftops of the city all brimming with the energy of young people forging their paths. However, the threat of the authoritarian regime is never far away and will soon bring new difficult circumstances. While writer-directors Maryam Ataei and Hossein Keshavarz were forced to smuggle their film out of Iran to premiere at Sundance, their movie never lets the threat of oppression dictate the entire tone. Hani and Pari remain resolute in their loving care for one another and their commitment to expressive freedom despite the serious challenges they face. Siskel Film Center exclusive.
Awards & Nominations
2026 Sundance Film Festival - Winner, U.S. Dramatic Special Jury Award for Ensemble Cast
2026 BFI London Film Festival - Official Selection
The Film Center is ADA accessible. This presentation will be projected without open captions. The theater is hearing-loop equipped. For accessibility requests, please email filmcenter@saic.edu