The festival quickly gained prominence as the primary venue for showcasing Iranian cinema. In February 1986, the first special issue dedicated to the festival was published by the monthly magazine Sinema Film, highlighting its growing influence. Initially, the festival focused exclusively on Iranian productions, but in 1995, it expanded to include an international section, allowing foreign films to compete alongside Iranian films.
Awards and Recognitions
One of the key features of the festival is its competitive nature, with participants vying for the prestigious “Crystal Simorgh” award. Additional honors include the diploma of honor and the golden plaque. Over time, the festival has introduced new competitive categories, including documentary films, short films, and a competition for promotional and informational materials related to cinema. The opening ceremony typically features a tribute to an esteemed artist, while the closing ceremony includes the presentation of special and audience-voted awards.
