“Past Future Continuous”, Interview with Morteza Ahmadvand and Firouzeh Khosrovani

“Past Future Continuous”: Ahmadvand and Khosrovani Discuss Technology, Hope, and the Iranian Diaspora

At the 82nd Venice Film Festival, we had the opportunity to speak with director Morteza Ahmadvand and Firouzeh Khosrovani about their film “Past Future Continuous (Gli uccelli del monte Qaf)“, which premiered in the Giornate degli Autori section. Our interview explored the film’s themes of technology, displacement, and the longing for home within the Iranian diaspora.

Using technology as a bridge

Firouzeh Khosrovani shared insights into their innovative use of surveillance cameras in the film. Rather than highlighting surveillance’s negative aspects, they aimed to transform this technology into a symbol of love and connection. The cameras serve as a way for a family to maintain bonds with their daughter living abroad, offering a sense of closeness despite geographical distance.

“We wanted to use this technological device in a way that transforms it,” Khosrovani explained. “To repurpose it for something else.” This approach emphasizes the potential of technology to foster emotional connections rather than surveillance or control.

The legend of mount Qaf and collective hope

Morteza Ahmadvand discussed the significance of the Iranian legend of Mount Qaf, which can only be crossed when 30 birds fly together. He explained that this metaphor represents the collective hope of Iranians who have been forced to leave their homeland. The filmmakers hope that one day, these individuals will be able to return to Iran.

“We, as Iranians inside the country, hope that people can return to their homeland,” Ahmadvand stated. He also clarified that “Seymour means 30 birds,” reinforcing the symbolism of unity and hope.

Challenges of returning to Iran

When asked about the Iranian government’s recent calls for expatriates to return home, Ahmadvand acknowledged the complexities involved. While they share the desire for Iranians abroad to come back, they recognize the risks and uncertainties tied to such a decision. The filmmakers express caution, mindful of the potential consequences faced by returnees, especially those involved in political activism or opposition groups—a concern echoed in recent discussions by Fred Film Radio on the hardships faced by Iranian artists abroad.

The themes of absence and presence

Khosrovani highlighted the emotional core of the film—the absence of the daughter, Mariam, and the void her departure creates within the family. The film captures the emotional toll of exile, emphasizing that “you leave half of yourself behind.” This feeling resonates deeply with many Iranians experiencing displacement.

*“Past Future Continuous” sheds light on Iran’s ongoing situation, especially for younger audiences unfamiliar with its recent history. The film also addresses themes of paranoia and insecurity faced by returnees, who may be at risk if involved in activism or political dissent.

Personal Perspectives of the Filmmakers

Both Ahmadvand and Khosrovani reflected on their personal experiences navigating these complex issues. Ahmadvand expressed the uncertainty surrounding their potential return to Iran:

“We will be back in Tehran next week, and we hope there are no problems, but we need to see what happens.”

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