In memory of Dariush Mehrjui, who we lost on this day, we reflect on the behind-the-scenes moments of his film The Postman (1972), a significant work that continues to resonate in Iranian cinema and beyond. Mehrjui was not only a talented filmmaker but also a revolutionary force in the Iranian New Wave, a movement that…
Fereydoun Farrokhzad’s *Mikhak-e Noghrei* (Silver Violet), which aired from 1968, marked a pivotal moment in Iranian television and music history. Farrokhzad, a multi-talented artist—known as a singer, poet, and television host—transformed the entertainment landscape with his innovative approach to television programming. His bold and unfiltered style, combined with his sharp wit, defied the conventional norms…
Dior’s Oud Ispahan, originally launched in 2012, has recently been reinterpreted by Francis Kurkdjian, Dior’s creative director of perfume, who brings a refined touch to this iconic fragrance. Inspired by the cultural richness of Isfahan, the perfume elegantly merges oud wood with Damascus rose, two opulent notes that create a captivating balance of warmth and…
During the decades leading up to the 1970s, the rivalry among soda giants like Pepsi-Cola, Coca-Cola, Canada Dry, and 7UP wasn't just about taste; it was about lifestyle, identity, and the embodiment of a modern, Western-influenced culture. As each brand sought to establish its dominance, they unleashed a wave of inventive marketing strategies designed to…
In 2021, fans of Googoosh had a rare opportunity to own a piece of her legendary wardrobe. Googoosh, an Iranian icon known for her unique style and musical influence, captivated audiences worldwide for decades. The auction included some of her most iconic outfits, like the gown she wore during her 2000 comeback tour, representing not…
The evolution from handwritten lyrics to digital notes reflects not only a shift in technology but also in the dynamics of how Persian rap has grown alongside Iranian society's embrace of digital platforms. As Iranian rappers transitioned from pen-and-paper lyrics to mobile devices, they adapted to a more immediate, mobile, and often more private creation…
The Iranian comedy film ZoodPaz, directed by Rambod Javan, offers a refreshing glimpse into 1980s Iran, blending humor with a poignant look at life during the Iran-Iraq War. The narrative cleverly unfolds around a family tragedy—a pressure cooker explosion—amidst the missile strikes of 1987. This incident sets the tone for a story that, while humorous,…
Café Naderi, located in central Tehran, is one of the city's most storied landmarks and a lasting symbol of Tehran’s intellectual and cultural history. Founded in 1927 by Armenian immigrant Khachik Madikians, the café was initially a small establishment. However, under Madikians' vision, it blossomed into a multifaceted venue—a café, hotel, and restaurant with an…
The Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon, an iconic vehicle renowned for its durability and luxury, has a surprising connection to Iran’s last monarch, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The story goes back to the 1970s, when the Shah of Iran played a significant role in the creation of this famous SUV.
At the time, Iran was a major investor in…
Fifty years ago, Bahrām Beyzaie introduced the world to *The Stranger and the Fog* (*Gharibeh va Meh*), a hauntingly surreal film that has become a cornerstone of Iranian cinema. To mark this milestone, the film has been meticulously restored in 4K, allowing a new generation of viewers to experience its atmospheric visuals and complex narrative…