In the Shadow of the Cypress: Film Screening & Discussion

Join us for a screening of the Academy Award winning film “In the Shadow of the Cypress,” and a discussion with the film’s writers and directors Hossein Molayemi and Shirin Sohani. The event is in English. The film won the 2025 Oscar for Best Animated Short Film.

“A former captain, suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, lives with his daughter in a humble house located by the sea. Together, they live an isolated life and have to confront the challenges of a harsh life.

Despite the captain's deep desire to be a devoted and caring father, he finds himself unable to fulfill his role and connect with his daughter in the way that he longs to.

One morning, their lives change forever when an unforeseen event occurs. Whether this event proves to be a newfound source of hope or an additional burden remains to be seen.”

Please note: We are searching for a larger venue and will release additional tickets if we can secure one. Please join the waitlist if tickets are "sold out" and we will notify you as soon as possible.

Hossein Molayemi completed his M.A. in animation directing at the Tehran University of Art and started his professional career in 2004. His work includes directing, character design, storyboard artist, animator and university lecturer. In the Shadow of the Cypress is his second professional film. His first film, Run Rostam Run (2017) was selected at Annecy, Warsaw and several other Oscar-qualifying film festivals and won national and international awards. He is a board member of ASIFA Iran and the Animation Filmmakers Guild of Iran.

Shirin Sohani completed her M.A. in animation directing at the Tehran University of Art. She started her professional career in 2012 and has worked as a concept artist, background artist, script writer and production manager. In the Shadow of the Cypress is her first professional film. Her graduation animated film, The Fan (2014) won both national and international awards.

Part of the Stanford Festival of Iranian Arts

TICKET INFORMATION:

A free ticket allows you to select a seat from 5:50 PM until 6:20 PM on a first-come, first-served basis. After that time all remaining seats will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Seats may not be held for those who are not present.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

• You must be able to show your Eventbrite ticket to gain entry between 5:50 and 6:20, either the e-ticket or a print copy. Please note a ticket does not guarantee a seat. Seats may not be held for those who are not present.
• Videography is not allowed during the event.
• A professional photographer and videographer will be taking photos and videos. By entering the venue, you consent to possibly appearing in the background of images and videos.

PARKING INFORMATION:

• Nearest and largest parking garage is at the Gradudate School of Business, 655 Knight Way, Stanford.

• Please follow all posted signs about parking hours or any other parking restrictions.

Stanford is committed to ensuring its facilities, programs and services are accessible to everyone. To request access information and/or accommodations for this event, please complete at the latest one week before the event.

Host or Publisher Hamid and Christina Moghadam Program in Iranian Studies