Seed of the Sacred Fig, The (2024)

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Ficus Religiosa

is a tree with an unusual life cycle.

Its seeds, contained in bird

droppings, fall on other trees.

Aerial roots spring up

and grow down to the floor.

Then, the branches wrap around

the host tree and strangle it.

Finally, the sacred fig

stands on its own.

"THE SEED OF THE SACRED FIG"

Thank you so much,

I was going to bed.

You haven't eaten since yesterday.

Have your breakfast first.

Your prayer was finally answered.

I'm so proud of you.

I wish your father could see this.

May he rest in peace.

Iman...

Will we be given

a three-bedroom apartment?

- It'll be a while.

- We'll wait.

The girls are too big

to share their bedroom.

It's going to change our lives

to move.

I was given this for self-defense.

Why?

To protect us.

Try it.

Hold it.

No, I don't like it.

Don't be scared, the safety is on.

I'm not scared.

It's heavy.

Shall we tell the girls?

Not yet.

But it's the perfect moment.

They'll be so proud to find out

their father has become a judge.

Not a judge, an investigator.

It doesn't matter.

You'll be a judge soon.

We'll see.

It's important for them

to know these things.

It will build their character.

You know about

the revolutionary courts.

They're unpopular.

Yes, but it's been too long.

You were waiting for an opportunity

to tell them about your work.

This is the best one.

We can go to a restaurant

to celebrate your promotion.

And we'll both talk to the girls.

I'm not sure.

Let me take care of this.

- OK?

- OK.

Sana, quiet, Dad's sleeping.

It's no big deal if I'm not there.

Impossible.

It's important.

The four of us need to talk about it.

So tell us now.

I'm telling you

your father has to be present.

It's both

a celebration and a meeting.

- What celebration?

- You'll see.

Please don't ruin my gathering.

See your friends another day.

Another day? It's her birthday.

Then ask her to be born another day!

Seriously.

I can't postpone it,

we've been planning it for a while.

Family must be your priority.

What's this meeting-celebration

anyway?

For the 20 years I've known your dad,

he's been dreaming of this.

Stop the suspense!

Tell us what's happened.

What if I told you

you'll each have your own bedroom?

No kidding? Seriously?

Hush, I said.

Let's run to the restaurant.

Bye!

Thank you very much.

A judge cannot rule

without first gathering

information and evidence.

Your job was

to gather that information?

Yes.

And why couldn't we know that?

You could have told us sooner.

They must stay anonymous

for their own safety

and that of their families.

In each case,

there's a winner and a loser.

The loser can always consider

he's been convicted unjustly

and seek revenge.

Now you're an investigating judge,

it's still dangerous.

That's right, honey.

But now you're big enough

to understand his position

and be careful.

Careful about what?

You mean, to take revenge on him,

they might hurt us?

It's possible.

But we're going to move to a place

where the neighbors are like us.

And they have kids.

We'll be safe,

the neighborhood is watched.

You should respect certain things

so as not to harm your father.

Like what?

Like the hijab.

No photos of you on social media.

You must be irreproachable.

Anything you do

would be immediately denounced.

You must watch your attitude,

your clothes, the places you go to,

your friends, your words.

Can you do your spoon trick?

Sure.

What's this?

It's written on it.

A five-volume case file.

It takes time to investigate.

I haven't even started.

Don't bother, write down

the indictment and sign.

It's the prosecutor's order.

I can't.

I've been working honorably

for 20 years.

I took an oath.

WIRETAPPED.

I suggest you read the text

of the judges' oath again.

Especially the last part.

Lunchtime.

Why do you think

you became an investigator?

The boss doesn't like you.

He was against your promotion.

He wanted to have one of his guys.

I was the one who insisted.

He's watching for

the slightest misstep on your part.

Do you want me to be challenged?

Or compromise your own success

and your family's serenity?

Do you know how many people

wanted this position?

Iman...

Here, you have to fight,

you have to earn your stripes.

Especially on a case

with an order from the prosecutor.

I haven't even read the file.

How can I indict him

of offense against God

and ask for a death sentence?

How's that?

It's great.

The shoulders fit badly.

And it's loose in the front.

- Shall I tell her?

- Sure.

- Madam...

- Yes?

Thank you, it's very nice,

but the shoulders fit badly.

And the front is loose,

it hides her chest.

One, this isn't the chest,

it's boobs.

Two, her shoulders

will be hidden by the veil.

It's true

but can you please fix this?

Young lady,

this is a uniform,

not an evening gown.

Why wouldn't a uniform look good?

OK, take if off.

Can you also tighten the front?

OK, but if they bug her at school,

don't complain to me.

Sadaf, forget it.

No! I hate loose clothes.

OK, then, please tighten it a bit.

OK, I'll see to it.

When will it be ready?

Call me next week.

School is starting next week!

What can I do? I'm busy.

Hello?

Hi, Mom.

Isn't it hard to be away?

It's a bit hard

to be in a college dorm,

but at the same time, it's cool.

You make new friends,

meet all kinds of people.

You become more independent.

Your mom's brave to let you go.

That was delicious.

- Anything else?

- No, thanks.

- You had enough?

- Yes.

At the beginning,

my mom was a bit worried

but now that I'm settled, she's OK.

- How many are you in a dorm?

- Eight.

So cool, I wanna go there too.

Then Amir called and a red heart

appeared on the screen.

I added it to his contact.

My mom said: who's that?

I said: a classmate.

She said: do you put red hearts

for all your classmates?

I didn't know what to say.

And then,

let me see what he's like.

I said...

She wanted to see him?

She's so laid-back.

- Rezvan?

- Yes?

- Come here.

- OK.

- I'll be right back.

- OK.

Sana, go help.

You should have put a white heart,

she wouldn't have suspected you.

Yes, Mom?

Your friend had lunch,

serve her tea and off she goes.

What do you mean?

I told you about her situation.

The dorm is not ready.

She knows nobody in Tehran.

You want to kick her out?

If she didn't know you,

what would she do?

She knows me.

This is what I meant.

Our life has changed,

we have to be very careful.

About what?

Our entourage.

What danger would Sadaf

represent for us?

Why do you think

my problem is Sadaf?

I'm telling you

we have to change our lifestyle.

If it's hard for you to tell her,

I'll talk to her.

I'll talk to Dad.

I'll ask him to let Sadaf stay.

Your father doesn't even know

who she is.

He's very busy, don't disturb him.

He's left all this up to me.

Let her spend the afternoon here.

I'll tell her in the meantime

that she has to leave.

OK?

OK, if it's just for the afternoon.

- Rezvan...

- Yes?

Why is it so important to you?

She's my friend, I promised her.

She's very lonely here.

What if you put her up tonight

and then again,

her dorm is not ready?

It will be ready tomorrow.

It's planned, I promise you.

I really didn't think you'd mind

having her one night.

That's why I offered.

She can stay on two conditions.

Which ones?

First, never ask me

this kind of favor again.

Second, make sure

between the time Dad comes home

tonight and when he leaves tomorrow,

Sadaf doesn't come out

of the bedroom.

I can't lock her in!

She can't see your father.

OK.

Mom, my eyebrows are still too thick.

Can you make the end thinner?

So you look like a sl*t?

I have thin eyebrows

but I'm a good girl!

I'm sorry,

that's not what I meant!

Rezvan has to respect

her family's rules.

When she gets married,

she'll see with her husband.

Sure, she'll respect his rules.

- When will I live for myself?

- Don't move.

Mind you,

natural eyebrows are fashionable.

Are you really plucking them?

I can't feel anything.

Of course I'm plucking them.

Did you see the photo I sent you?

Yeah, it was beautiful.

Mom, can I get some highlights soon?

What's next?

With this beautiful hair you have...

Sadaf is saying

natural is fashionable.

For eyebrows.

I'll dye my hair blue this summer.

Go ahead, and I'll blacklist you.

Remove your nail polish

before your dad comes.

I don't want problems.

What's wrong with you?

You dye your hair

and paint your nails.

Being a young girl

and a married woman

are different things.

What?

Nothing, I'm showing her my nails.

Is that so funny?

They look good.

It's Dad.

Yes, Iman?

Doesn't your mom like me?

Whatever.

She's constantly teasing me.

She's worrying

about this little pest.

Who's the hottest one here?

Ready, girls?

Why are you home so late?

You OK?

Iman...

Iman...

Have some of this,

it'll do you good.

Why don't you say anything?

They think

they can make me do anything.

Who?

My predecessor was fired

because he refused to sign

a death indictment.

Did they ask you to do something?

To sign the same indictment.

Is it unjust?

I don't know.

Do not sign.

It's the prosecutor's order.

I have to obey to it.

If the prosecutor has given an order,

it's not in your hands, is it?

It's his responsibility.

That's what Ghaderi says.

That's a first instance judgment,

it can be contested.

There can be an appeal

or a plea procedure.

So why are you upset?

I'll get you something

that helps with sleep.

Hello?

Hi, are you feeling better?

Sorry I didn't wake up

to prepare your breakfast.

I'm glad.

I couldn't sleep last night.

I fell asleep at dawn.

Yes.

I missed my prayer.

Where?

Why?

I wanted to go shopping

with the girls.

Rezvan needs

some clothes for college

and Sana some stationery.

Then, we're not going.

If you say it's risky,

we'll stay home.

Don't worry.

OK, my love.

Sure, bye.

If they have stationery

from previous years,

they shouldn't buy more.

They'd better avoid wasting.

Two days before school starts,

parents flock

to school supplies shops

for their children.

Maryam Jafari for National TV

at Tehran's bazar.

Last night,

several neighborhoods

were the scene of protests

turned into riots by some individuals

who disturbed the peace

for a few hours.

Last night's incidents

caused widespread damage

to public property

as well as businesses.

The protests that took place

in some places in Tehran

quickly degenerated.

The rioters damaged

public and private property.

It's 8:55 pm

on Ghods square,

in front of the City Hall,

a car is burning...

They're getting beaten up!

And those lies on TV!

Has Sadaf arrived at her dorm?

Haven't heard from her yet.

Who do you think you are?

You're coming on my land

to beat me?

Down with the dictator!

Down with the dictator!

Sadaf, are they shouting slogans

there too?

Yes.

- The neighbors!

- Let me see!

In the dorm?

Can't you hear? Listen.

Down with theocracy!

Did you shout too?

Yes and I took off my veil!

- Really?

- Awesome!

Down with the dictator!

You're crazy! What are you doing?

I sent you videos. Check them out.

It's all filtered,

I can't see anything.

I'll send you a VPN.

To me too!

Shut up!

You don't have to imitate me!

I wanna go on the net.

Send it, bye.

Little pest.

In the name of Mahsa Amini,

some fringe groups

called for rallies

that turned into riots.

We could have gone out for a pizza.

Staying one day at home

is more than you can take?

Don't you see this chaos?

What chaos?

People are living their lives.

You two think you know better

than your parents?

Setting fires and breaking glass

is living one's life?

They're not letting them protest.

Go ahead,

defend the rioters in court.

It's impossible to talk to you.

Quiet, I'm listening to the news.

Speculation about the cause of death

is circulating in the media,

from different sources.

She died as a result

of police violence.

Traces of blows were observed.

Traces of blows.

The security police

have released CCTV footage.

Here are the first images

to be released by the police.

From Uzbekistan, the President

ordered an emergency procedure.

The Minister of the Interior

has asked

his Security Officer

to quickly

and accurately determine

the causes of the incident

and report back.

On social media, some maintain

that Mahsa Amini died

as a result of police brutality.

She has visible injuries.

Widespread calls for rallies

were published on social media.

Among them...

Was she really k*lled for her hijab?

Not at all, she was sick.

She had a stroke.

How do you know?

It's what TV said.

The TV is always right?

No, you're always right.

She had heart issues

and had a stroke at the station.

She must have been so scared

that she had a stroke.

People have strokes every day.

Is it the regime's fault?

They don't all die

from fear of the police!

What if it was your daughter?

My daughter had better not be seen

in an outfit like that!

Why should people get arrested

for their outfit?

That's God's order,

the law of the country.

What if the law of the country

is wrong?

God's law cannot be wrong.

What makes you so sure

this is God's law?

What's the matter with you?

Go out and shout slogans!

Go dance on the streets bareheaded!

If your father knew

what's going on here!

Move it!

What's the matter with her?

What do I know?

The girls have grown.

They have opinions, questions.

They need you.

I'm not asking for anything.

But at this age,

a girl needs her father.

They're getting bored.

If I bug them too much,

they dig their heels in

and don't listen to me.

It's gonna be all right.

It's a phase.

The school and the college

are opening soon.

That will keep them busy.

Be patient.

Iman...

Did you sign the death indictment?

Did I have the choice?

"I submit to the one

who submits to You."

"I fight him who fights You."

"Until the Last Day."

Iman...

I know you want to sleep.

But you remember you promised

you'd buy a dishwasher?

My hands and the girls'

are getting damaged.

Next week.

Remember not to take

your phone out of your bag.

I won't, Mom.

I'll pick you up at 1.

Bye.

Rezvan honey,

weren't you supposed

to distance yourself from her?

Sadaf is my only friend.

There's nothing wrong with that.

But be careful because of Dad's job.

I don't know

what you're talking about.

What does Dad do?

A sensitive job, like my brother's.

He's travelling all the time

and nobody knows where he is.

Do you know what he does?

I'm his sister and all I know

is that he's a military man.

But Dad, is he a judge,

an investigator, a military man?

I'm telling you

he has a sensitive job.

We have to be discreet.

When you get close to people,

you must always be careful

to avoid leaks.

What were you thinking

offering to pick up Sadaf?

Her dorm is on our way.

You don't want her in our home.

I'm 21 and you're controlling

all my relationships.

I'm not controlling,

I'm watching over my family.

You'll understand

when you're a mother.

Sadaf is here.

- Hello!

- Hi, how are you?

You're OK? Your parents too?

Yes, thank you.

I just talked to my mom.

She says hi.

That's nice of her.

Last night, it was crazy at the dorm.

Why?

They were all out chanting slogans.

You too?

Did your mom say

how it was in their city?

Yeah, people are very angry

everywhere.

They're not people

but a bunch of th*gs.

Be careful not to mingle with them.

- Hello?

- Mom...

What's going on?

Come pick me up. The school's closed.

Why?

The girls are demonstrating.

At the school?

Yes, it's quite tense.

I'll turn around, I'm coming.

- Keep your distance, I'm coming.

- OK.

We are receiving messages

that the principals

are no longer noting absences.

We can officially skip school!

Before, we felt bad doing it.

Now, it's official.

Don't bother coming,

they won't let you in the door.

Basically, in the colleges

and in the highschools,

it's a free-for-all.

Bye.

Hi.

What's going on?

They were shouting slogans.

What slogans?

Women, life, freedom.

I can't reach Rezvan.

Let me try.

Maybe she's out of battery.

I think they cut the coverage

during the demonstrations.

Let's go pick her up.

Can't reach her.

What's he saying?

He says not this way, the other way.

But I can't go from there...

Rezvan...

Rezvan!

Iman...

What's new? Since what time?

No one knows

what time the college closed?

In that case,

she should be home by now!

How will I find my girl?

OK, I'll wait to hear from you.

Iman, call me, don't forget.

Hello?

Rezvan, where are you?

We're at home.

Don't come, Mom's here.

How is she?

Poor thing.

No, I've got this.

Stay close, I'll call you.

See you in a minute.

Mom...

I'm out of sanitary pads.

You got scared, honey?

I'll give you some of mine.

Sorry, but I need thin ones.

If you can't go, I'll buy some.

You've got a nerve!

You want to go out?

Certainly not, I'll go.

Thanks a lot.

Hello?

She's leaving the building now.

I'm coming down.

Go get painkillers.

Sadaf...

Take this.

Drink some water, sweetie.

It's OK, my love.

You'll get better.

Lean back.

Rezvan...

- What?

- Her face...

What should we do?

I have no idea.

Shouldn't we take her to a hospital?

- She says she'd be arrested.

- So what?

What if something happens?

If they arrest her, they won't

let her stay in the hospital.

They'd hurt her.

We have to find a safe doctor.

But how?

Mom...

Rezvan!

You're here?

Why didn't you call me?

I was worried sick.

What's going on?

There's nothing more I can do.

If something happens to her,

who will answer to her family?

She doesn't want her family to know.

It's none of our business.

It's my business.

Why doesn't she want them to know?

I don't know.

All I know is she's in danger

and we need to help her.

I can't allow you to.

It's too much responsibility.

Mom!

You saw her face.

Is it my fault?

She shouldn't have gone.

Gone where?

It was at college,

we got caught in the crowd.

I don't want this in this home.

Have you thought of your father?

You're responsible for him too.

Sadaf, what are you doing?

Sadaf!

I want to go.

You're not well.

You have to call your mom.

- OK.

- I'll take you.

- Mom!

- Don't bother.

Tell her I don't want her to take me.

Stay, we'll take you to a doctor.

Let me talk to her.

I'll call her a taxi.

Put her veil on.

Mom, let her stay, please.

The neighbors mustn't see her face.

Sorry, my love.

- I'll call you.

- OK.

Let's go.

By changing jobs,

you have also changed?

Why don't you answer my calls?

I was in a meeting.

And after the meeting?

I called several times.

Lots of times.

Let me in.

Today,

I had a complicated case.

It preoccupied me.

Complicated enough

to make you forget about your family?

A twenty-year-old boy.

No matter how strong you are,

how unfailing your faith is,

death sentences are overwhelming.

Out of bad luck,

the protests coincided

with my arrival at this position.

There are countless arrests.

From 14-year-olds

to 70-year-old men and women.

More of them every day.

Police stations are saturated.

We're asked to rush through them.

I have a few minutes

to make a decision.

100, 200, 300 cases a day.

What can I do?

Work is work.

Do you know how long it's been

since you had a meal with the girls?

Explain, reassure them.

Who reassures me?

Tomorrow morning, before leaving,

take the time to talk to them.

I can't.

I have to be in court very early.

I promise to be back for dinner.

Mom...

Hi, Dad.

Can you come?

Go, darling, I'm coming.

What is it?

They must have argued.

It looks great on you.

I'll be back.

Look what they're doing to her,

poor thing.

It's at the dorm?

Her friends filmed them secretly.

I told you she should have stayed.

On the contrary,

I was right.

They would come for her here.

What about your father?

I'll talk to him.

Stay here. What are you doing?

- I'll talk to him.

- About what?

I want to know where she is.

Nobody knows who took her.

Sadaf did nothing.

You father doesn't know about that.

Who does, then?

None of your business, you brat.

- Mom...

- You two listen to me.

The agents have her phone.

Do not call or text her.

Same goes for you, Sana.

She must have done something

to get arrested this way.

Mom, listen.

Sadaf did nothing.

I was with her.

I beg you, help her.

Never say again

that you were with her.

You were nowhere with her, got it?

I know someone who can help us.

I'll find her by tomorrow morning.

Now go to bed, phones off.

Go!

What did he say?

He got hit by buckshot.

Gosh! They're breaking in.

Oh no...

God.

They've pulled

her jacket over her head.

They've covered her head.

They're taking the kid...

Hello.

- How are you?

- Thanks.

How are the kids?

Fine, thank you.

How's Alireza?

Good, thanks.

He said Iman has become

an investigator, congratulations.

For now, it's mostly problems.

He's swamped.

Don't be ungrateful.

He'll have a big pay raise,

you'll be given official housing.

After a couple of years

in this position,

he'll be promoted

to the revolutionary court.

Then, you'll be all set.

Being a judge's wife is the best.

I wish the same for you.

We're not so lucky.

Alireza too should have be promoted

to an investigator, but...

it didn't happen.

It's God's will.

For now, they're arresting

so many people.

Night and day, it never stops.

I know. Actually, I'm here

for a friend's daughter.

She got arrested

and her family hasn't heard from her.

When did it happen?

Last night, at her dorm.

Who arrested her?

Plainclothes cops?

Or special forces?

Plainclothes, I think.

Then it will take a while

before they know anything.

I've come to ask you

to do a good deed.

If you could search her name

in your base.

No promises, but send me her name

and also her identification number.

Sure.

I have to go. You see it's endless.

Thank you for taking the time.

No problem.

I don't want to interfere,

but these friends of yours

who ask you a favor

let their children

take part in riots.

- And then...

- Yes, I know.

These days, some unscrupulous people

have posted the addresses

and phone numbers

of judges, investigators,

or whoever works for the government.

They have found them

and put them on social media.

No, seriously?

Imagine, when they circulate

on the hostile media...

You need to choose

your acquaintances wisely.

We will, for sure.

Say hi to your family.

Thank you, Fatemeh.

Please, don't tell Alireza

about my request.

If he tells Iman,

he wouldn't like it.

Don't even say you saw me,

it's between us.

OK, no worries.

Take care. See you soon.

- See you.

- Bye.

Hi, Mom.

- What's new?

- Take these.

We need her identification number.

How are we gonna find that?

No idea.

You're talking like it's my fault.

She must have broken windows

or burnt tires.

That will teach her a lesson.

Call her family.

I told you she didn't do anything.

They were together.

Rezvan could have been

shot in the eye too.

What were you doing

with those rioters?

These loose women

in the streets, undressed.

Hello?

Hi, any news?

She needs the identification number.

Can you find it?

OK, try to find it

as soon as possible.

I'll wait for your call.

What the hell are you doing?

Who were you talking to?

What's wrong with you?

To a classmate.

Did you tell anyone we can help her?

Did you mention your father?

In what way?

Stop playing dumb.

How do your friends think

you're searching for her?

I didn't mention Dad.

- How then?

- I said my uncle knows someone.

How dare you mention your uncle?

If I ever hear you mention

your father or your uncle...

I didn't say anything, Mom!

I know what I can and can't say!

Stop threatening me

or I'm moving out!

Moving out, congrats!

What do you think this is? A hotel?

You're shameless!

- Don't close the door!

- Leave her alone!

Not like this, set it down.

Take another one.

Move these aside, my hands are dirty.

- How should I cut it?

- In slices, the other way round.

Put it here.

The other way round.

Now cut it in slices.

Set it down.

- It's OK.

- You'll get burnt.

Turn them with this.

Down with theocracy!

Down with theocracy!

Each person k*lled

Is replaced by a thousand more

What's going on?

You're here?

I thought you forgot.

I rushed out of court.

My phone was off.

They're shouting in our building too.

The b*stards.

We'll get rid of them.

They take advantage of the system

and they insult it.

There are more of them every night.

What if something happened?

Like what?

Don't you think of it?

If something happens,

what would they do to us?

Nothing will happen.

How can you be so sure?

We'll stop them.

Whoever confronts God

does it at their own risk.

There's agitation everywhere,

in colleges, schools.

Let them agitate.

Even schoolgirls

are in the streets bareheaded

chanting slogans.

Where are the girls?

In their bedroom.

They're upset.

Some of Rezvan's friends

have been arrested.

Rezvan wasn't in the commotion,

was she?

No, she wasn't.

But one of her close friends

was arrested.

She's very worried about her.

Why does she have

that kind of friend?

I can't make their friends

undergo a merit test.

They met at college and became close.

Poor kid came to Tehran for college

and ends up in jail.

But she hasn't done anything.

All the families say

the indictees did nothing.

I'm telling you,

she really did nothing.

She found herself

in the middle of the rally.

There we go.

Being in a rally

is a five-year sentence.

OK, fine.

All I want to know

is if you can find

her whereabouts for her family.

How?

God knows where she is.

They'll have to wait.

- They're so many of them.

- How long?

Until she talks.

She'll be kept

in solitary confinement

until she confesses

in front of a camera.

Confess? She's done nothing.

How do you know she's done nothing?

Anyway.

Can you try to find out how she is?

Just that.

No. Even if I wanted to, I couldn't.

At this stage, it's out of my hands.

Nothing but lies. Turn it off.

What'd you say, honey?

Nothing.

You said something.

I said we should turn off the TV

during dinner.

Before.

I said it was nothing but lies.

Sweet Lord.

How do you know?

I live in this country.

I've got eyes.

Are you sure? It could be the enemy

that's persuading you.

What enemy, Dad?

My friends were beaten and arrested

before my eyes.

Listen,

I know there's room for improvement.

But you guys don't realize

that the whole world is against us.

This is all an enemy plot.

What plot?

I don't care about the enemy

or some conspiracy theory.

A girl my age

was k*lled because of her hijab.

Why?

See, your facts aren't straight.

She had a stroke.

But through the media,

the enemy brainwashed you

into believing she was k*lled.

So why do they refuse to investigate?

Why don't they let an independent

commission take action?

They're k*lling all these people

simply to deny k*lling her?

You're going too far.

Me and thousands of others,

are slaving away

to preserve this country for whom?

For you!

You are defending

a bunch of sluts who just want

to walk the street naked!

Who wants to walk naked?

The people in the streets!

Who, Dad?

I happened to be

in the crowd yesterday.

You had no right to!

It was a coincidence.

I was leaving the college

with my friend.

They shot her in the face

with buckshot.

And then they arrested her

at her dorm.

Even if she lives,

she'll lose an eye.

Her beauty is gone,

her bright future too.

Why?

Listen, every day,

I interrogate

thousands of people like her.

- I know who they're involved with.

- Who?

They're just normal people

who want a normal life and freedom.

Just like anywhere else.

Good God.

Stop arguing with your father!

If not as a father,

as an expert who's been serving

this regime for 20 years,

don't you think I know better?

No.

You don't, Dad.

Because you're on the inside.

You believe in it.

You want to preserve it at all cost.

Iman...

For once we were having

a family dinner, you ruined it.

Iman...

Iman.

Here, have some water.

You OK?

Najmeh...

Najmeh dear.

Yes?

Where have you put my g*n?

Your g*n?

I don't know.

I didn't touch it.

My God...

Are you sure you had it

when you came home?

- I came in, you were at the window.

- Yes.

I took off my jacket,

threw it on the bed.

I put the g*n...

in the drawer and then...

I sat down here.

I didn't mention it,

but the other evening,

you left it in the bathroom.

I found it there

when I picked up the laundry.

I put it away in this drawer.

You'll find it.

The kids!

Where are you going?

They may have taken it.

Take your g*n?

Can you ask them?

You want me to wake them up

to ask them about your g*n?

Yes, I do!

Rezvan...

Sweetheart...

Wake up, please.

What's going on?

Your Dad's g*n is not in its place.

Do you know where it is?

What?

A g*n?

Dad has a g*n?

No, nothing.

Go back to sleep.

- So?

- I told you, it scared her.

They didn't even know you have a g*n.

God...

Iman...

Maybe you've left it in court.

Go check.

Six months to three years in jail.

Worse than the sentence,

is the discredit.

You've been here

less than two weeks.

Such an embarrassment.

There'd be talk.

They'll say you were incapable

of keeping your g*n for a few days.

Your merits will be questioned.

They'll lose faith in you.

Prevent you from moving up.

I'll find it.

You have to find it.

For now, don't report it,

don't say anything to anyone.

Based on what you're saying,

it's in your house, without a doubt.

Maybe if you just wait a few days,

the one who's taken it

will put it back.

Don't repeat yourself.

Where would I have left it?

Najmeh, think back

to what she said last night,

it just has to be at home.

Yes.

Keep me up to date.

Put them properly on the desk.

- And the top one?

- It's empty!

These are my underwear!

In my own home,

I don't feel safe.

Be patient, my love.

These things happen in every family.

Next month,

it will be 21 years, right?

21 years.

Up in smoke.

All my professional credibility.

You can't lose your credibility

because of something

that's out of your hands.

Don't be so worried.

Yes.

I can.

But I won't let it happen.

Dad is about to have a stroke.

If something happens to him,

it's your fault.

Really, Mom?

You said people had strokes every day

and it was no one's fault,

just bad luck.

But if it's Dad, it's our fault?

You've got some nerve.

If this damn g*n is not found,

your dad will do 3 years of jail.

3 years.

Why do you assume it's us?

We could point the finger at her.

Don't know.

Sana, what's going on with her?

Mom, aren't you eating?

No.

Why?

Mom...

Mom!

You don't realize

what you're doing to him.

What are we doing?

If you'd grown up like me

with a father who only cared about

gambling and partying,

you'd be more grateful.

You'd honor your father.

I understand, Mom.

I know you suffered as a child.

But why do you always think

Dad is right?

Why would Sana and I

take the g*n?

So it just flew away?

Maybe Dad is lying...

Mind what you say about your father!

OK, the g*n was in the drawer

of his nightstand.

Do you really think Sana and I

would dare come in

while you're asleep

and take it from the drawer?

What are we talking about anyway?

Dad is so spaced out these days,

he's left it somewhere

and he's taking it out on us.

She's right, Mom.

Think about it.

Here, eat.

Mom...

You shouldn't have told your family

about your work.

I should have hidden it?

Of course.

Until when?

To the grave.

I'm in deep sh*t.

It's normal.

In our training, they don't teach

an investigator

how to interrogate their family.

Don't you suspect any of them?

I can't believe my daughters did it.

And your wife?

I have absolute confidence in her.

Really?

There's only one way

to find out who did it.

What?

Alireza.

Take them to him.

- To Alireza?

- Yes.

He's the best interrogator there is.

He has psychological tricks,

he'll figure it out quickly.

How could I?

He comes over often.

Our wives are friends.

Our kids are friends.

How can he interrogate my family?

Why interrogate?

He uses psychology

and body language techniques.

He'll tell you who's got it.

Isn't that worth it?

You want to be let go?

You want us both to be on the hook?

Make this go away.

I won't take them to him.

Do you know anyone safer?

Any better way?

Tell yourself it's a therapy session.

Alireza and Fatemeh are our friends.

They don't need to know about

our personal problems.

I told him not to mention it

to his family.

They're a couple.

They tell each other everything.

How dare you have your children

interrogated by your friend?

Why interrogate?

It's a psychotherapy session.

He'll make sure

they don't recognize him.

After this,

who can the girls confide in?

You?

Me?

Their friends?

What can I do?

If they find out at court,

do you know what will happen?

If they discover

the g*n was taken from my home?

We'll see him for half an hour,

he'll do the interviews

and make his diagnosis.

We'll be done with it.

He's a specialist.

Is it filmed?

What?

You said interrogations are filmed.

Of course not,

what are you talking about?

What will we tell the girls?

That it's a therapy session.

It's here.

It won't take long.

I'll wait for you.

OK.

Let's go, girls.

Hello.

Hello, come in.

Come in.

Arms up.

Come on.

The other one too.

You have something on you?

Go sit.

Come on, quick.

Arms up, legs spread.

Go sit there too.

- What do you have on you?

- Nothing.

- A phone in your bag?

- Yes.

Let me see.

Arms up.

Legs spread.

Go wait there.

Mom...

Yes, honey?

Come here.

Girls, this way.

Get up.

Let's go.

It's on your right.

You're here and you're there.

Hello.

- How are you?

- Fine, thank you.

- Fatemeh is fine?

- Thank God.

Reyhaneh and Amir Mahdi too?

Yes, thank you.

Follow me.

You want to talk to me too?

I have a few small questions.

Iman said it's just the girls.

Please, this way.

Don't turn, face the wall.

- Can you see here?

- Where?

Down here.

Could you write?

No, I can't see.

- And now?

- Yes.

Don't move, I'll be back.

I cannot believe

the girls would have taken the g*n.

In general, the criminal

is not the one you imagine.

What crime are we talking about?

I'm sure Iman has left it somewhere.

You know how it's been lately.

You are all under pressure

due to all of the arrests.

Iman is really perturbed.

He's had to sign a few indictments

that have deeply troubled him.

I see.

But Iman is sure he put it away

in its place at home.

He told me the same thing,

but it's unlikely.

The other night, he came home

very upset and went for a shower.

Then I found the g*n

in the bathroom.

Just by chance.

I put it in its place.

So you think

the g*n is not at your home.

Yes.

And you?

What about me?

Might you know where it is?

What do you mean?

I would have taken it?

You just said

you're sure it's not in your home.

Well, thank you.

Thank Iman.

Don't take it badly.

Iman told me

he has absolute confidence in you.

But everyone knows

sometimes between

mother and daughters,

there are secrets.

Absolutely not.

Why would I hide this

from my husband?

God as my witness,

I've always been transparent

with Iman.

Yet I know

there are things

that Iman doesn't know.

Stay seated, please.

You're speaking in an offending way.

Sit down.

I'm speaking to you

very respectfully.

Never has a person sitting there

been treated with such respect.

Be reassured,

all this will remain between us.

I'm the keeper of secrets.

I thought perhaps this issue

might be one of those

that you have decided

to hide from Iman.

I can't understand this disaster

taking over my life.

Be precise and thorough.

Especially concerning the young girl

you were looking for.

You, go to your room.

No, stay.

We have nothing to hide.

Do you realize what you're doing?

What am I doing?

Playing with your dad's reputation.

The family's reputation.

Sweetheart,

this issue has the potential

to ruin my career.

I'll be put in jail.

Don't you care?

- It's not me...

- Who, then?

Rezvan,

honey,

don't be scared.

No harm will come to you.

Just give me the g*n back.

What g*n?

Why won't you believe me?

You accuse me

because of what a stranger says!

Where's the g*n then?

Did it vanish into thin air?

Where is it?

I have no idea!

Maybe you have it!

Calm down, sweetie.

All you've been given

is love and respect.

The best house, everything you need,

a car, money...

What have you been missing?

I didn't take it, Dad.

I swear I didn't.

I swear on whatever you want.

Why won't you believe me?

I didn't even know you had a g*n.

Leave me alone.

You won't believe me.

Leave me alone!

I'll find it.

Mom...

Mom, wait...

What are you doing?

Please, don't start again.

You've already searched everywhere.

Mom!

Calm down, you're not well.

Did she tell you anything?

It's my turn?

Don't you want to have blue hair?

Your father will promise you can.

Go ahead, Iman.

Sweetie,

Rezvan isn't in her right mind.

If you know something, say so,

you'll do her a favor.

And I'll let you dye your hair,

paint your nails.

She didn't tell me anything.

Sana knows something.

I can see it in her eyes.

She's a child.

This isn't the court, it's your home.

A mistake has been made,

but as you said,

one shouldn't burn bridges.

What curse has fallen upon me.

You have us.

They'll call me incompetent.

Who?

I've always said

you built this life from nothing.

With no support, on your own,

with no help.

Iman...

your dream is coming true.

You're only a few steps away

from the judge's chair.

Yes.

A few steps.

But fate has changed.

Your name is Iman.

How can you lose faith?

You'll make it right.

I'd like to hug Rezvan.

Kiss Sana.

Go ahead, hug them, kiss them.

Now?

Najmeh...

Yes, my love?

Sana wants to have blue hair?

Painted nails?

Why?

The world has changed.

Kids think differently.

The world has changed,

but God has not.

Nor his laws.

We have to teach them.

We always have.

Sana is going through puberty.

She's influenced by her friends.

She shouldn't see them.

You must spend more time with them.

So that you get closer,

become more intimate.

You have to help shape their ideas.

Yes.

Najmeh.

Yes, my love?

Come close to me.

Mom!

- What's that?

- Dad's contact info was posted.

Even our address.

Good God...

My Goodness.

Let me see.

I told you to be careful.

They wanna do away with me.

You have to report it all.

Write a letter to the boss now.

Say your personal info

has been revealed online

and that you're in danger.

Ask for secure official housing.

Drop the letter off and rush home.

Take your family

and go to a safe place for a while.

Until things settle down.

I have two of them.

Keep one for now.

Thank you so much.

Yes?

Yes?

Who is it?

Nobody rang.

Iman... you're OK?

Yes... I'm OK.

What shall we do?

Give me your phone.

My phone? Here.

Hi, Dad.

Hi.

Your phone.

Cut the music.

Your code.

Iman?

Iman?

Sana.

Your code.

Give it to me.

Najmeh, your code.

You know it.

Everyone at the table in 10 minutes.

I'm worried.

Strange things have been happening.

We'll leave Tehran for a few days.

We'll go to my birthplace.

You loved going there

when you were little.

I haven't had time

to take you there lately.

It's the right moment.

Over there we will become

the family we were.

And try to work things out.

Get ready, we're leaving in an hour.

Dad, can I have my phone back?

Rezvan, drop it.

- I want to check on my friend.

- Get in the car.

Come on, get in.

- Anything wrong?

- No.

You seem weird.

Did someone recognize you?

They took photos and videos of us.

What are you going to do?

Masks on.

Girls, masks.

Sana, wake up,

put a mask on.

What's going on?

Dad and the car were filmed.

By who?

Iman, please, let's go.

You said it would be all over.

I won't let anyone hurt us.

Please, drop it.

Please, Dad, let's just go.

Are you sure he filmed us?

The glove box.

Take out your phone.

When I tell you,

film his car with the license plate.

She's also filming us.

You're going too fast.

Don't you see the girls are scared?

Careful, Dad!

Dad!

We'll crash!

Please, drop it!

Stay in the car.

So, investigator, you're scared?

Afraid your family

will find out what you do?

Your father is an executioner!

Drop your phone.

Go ahead, sh**t, if you dare!

His g*n!

He didn't tell us he found it.

It's another one.

What have you done, Sana?

- Give it to me.

- I'll keep it.

Leave it!

Dad's lost it.

Grab the phones.

Let's call Uncle Assad.

Shut up, you wh*re!

Do you know how many death

sentence requests he's signed?

There's no signal!

Have you read about him?

- Sana, quick!

- I have no signal!

I'm better than you

who feeds on the blood of the people.

- Call Assad...

- There's no signal.

I'm streaming this live to the world

to put you to shame.

She's lying, there's no signal.

She can't send anything.

Throw your phone.

I swear I'll sh**t!

Throw it, he may really sh**t!

Tie her up.

ID and phone.

- Hands behind your back.

- Quick!

- Not you!

- Here we are!

It's a couple's photo.

I've got you.

Daddy!

- Yes?

- Sing.

What song?

"From my heart"

No, another one.

Please, Daddy.

No, I said!

- Yes, sir!

- Good boy.

So you found the g*n?

No, I didn't.

This is Ghaderi's. He lent it to me.

So the nightmare is not over.

Soon.

sh*t.

It must be the fuses.

I'll check.

Sana...

Thanks.

- I put it here?

- Yes, thanks.

It's so nice of you.

My pleasure.

A feast of a breakfast.

It's only normal.

Thank you.

Dad, when will we have

our phones back? It's boring here.

Be patient, you'll have them.

You think it's which one?

The one with the plaid shirt.

That's Uncle Ali, for sure.

I think he's the other one.

Dad!

- Is it you?

- Yes.

It's at the Imam Reza shrine.

Why are you doing this?

It's a gesture of submission,

faith, absolute obedience.

I see, what Dad expects from us.

It's not for me,

it's for God.

Why are you interfering

in our relationship with God?

- Sana!

- Let her talk.

That's no way to talk.

I'm just asking a question.

In faith, there are no questions.

You have to feel it in your bones.

Woe to him who loses his faith.

What's undermining our family

is lies.

I don't care about the g*n anymore.

I want the liar.

I want my family back.

You have one hour

to hand over the liar.

It shouldn't have come to this.

Why does he get to do

whatever he wants?

He's the first liar.

For years he hid his job from us.

We're up against the wall.

I know your father well.

- Whoever's done it needs to give in.

- Mom...

I'm begging you.

No matter who did it,

just stop playing around.

Give it to me.

I stole it, I'm the liar.

You always give in to him.

I've always made sure you never see

your father's true colors.

Which of you has the g*n?

We don't know anything.

Is that your final word?

Fine.

Sit down.

So,

I've been living with a liar

for 20 years.

Can the girls go out?

Why?

Let them see.

What else did you lie about?

I didn't lie about anything else.

From the start, you were excited

to have this g*n at home.

But I was scared.

Where's the g*n?

I threw it into the canal

near our house.

One lie

after the other.

Are you taking the blame

for the girls?

I'm not lying.

I made a mistake, I apologize.

Please forgive me.

Let's go back home

and I'll show you where I threw it.

We might find it.

Explain when and how

you stole the g*n.

The night you had a nightmare,

I woke you up

and gave you some water.

Remember?

You went to the living room.

I took it then.

Where did you hide it?

When did you throw it?

I hid it

in the freezer,

between pieces of meat.

Then,

in the morning, when you left,

I went to throw it into the canal.

You didn't think

of your husband's reputation?

Iman, please, that's enough,

let's go back to Tehran.

I'll tell everyone it was me.

I won't let you be harmed.

The girls are really scared.

I'll come to any court

to confess I took the g*n.

You'll be off the hook,

don't be afraid.

I'm not afraid of anybody!

So what do you want the g*n for?

Enough, Mom, get up.

Stop it, I don't want you

to be involved in this.

We've been involved

since the beginning.

I have your g*n.

It's here.

Ask Uncle Assad to come and pick up

Mom and Sana.

Then, I'll give it to you.

Are you making conditions for me?

Sit down in front of the camera.

I won't sit.

You will.

Rezvan sweetheart,

come sit for a minute.

We'll talk.

Come, my love.

Let your father calm down.

When and how you stole the g*n,

for what motive?

I won't answer.

Don't get smart with me!

Answer him.

I told you,

I have it here, in the garden.

Let Mom and Sana leave

and I'll give it to you.

Don't make conditions!

Rezvan, honey,

since you're saying

you have it here,

why don't you give it back to him?

It's not here.

You're all liars.

I swear I left it here.

You're hurting me!

Open the door!

Open!

Mom!

Open!

Iman!

Are you out of your mind?

You've gone crazy!

Mom, you're OK?

Rezvan, honey, I'm here.

Don't be scared, my love, I'm here.

Take this.

Open it!

Open it!

Open the door!

Iman, where's Sana?

It's cold, she'll get sick.

It's not safe out there.

There are wild animals.

Let's go find her.

I don't want this!

What are you doing?

We're your family!

My baby will get scared!

If something happens to her,

I'll never forgive you!

Iman!

My baby's all alone!

She'll get lost!

Iman!

Where are you?

Can you hear me?

Come open this door!

Iman,

she needs to go to the bathroom!

Open up!

- I need to go!

- Open up, I'm telling you!

If you shout next time,

I won't open up.

Tap gently on the door...

- Mom!

- Let's go, quiet.

Go in, I'll put the power back on.

I'm going to the toilet!

You brute!

- Iman, take only me.

- Sure.

If they let me.

- Daddy!

- Wait.

Let's do a selfie.

Daddy!

Yes, honey?

Stop saying Daddy for a second!

Dad, take one alone and then...

Sana!

Open the door!

Open up!

Damn it!

Sana, you're OK?

Where's your father?

He can't reach us!

The car key!

The gate is closed.

He'll be here soon!

No, this way!

Come on!

Run!

Faster!

Come on, girls.

Let's separate!

Mom...

Sana...

- Rezvan!

- Mom!

What the hell are you doing?

- Run!

- Najmeh!

Get out of my way.

Quiet, sit down.

I won't sit, I'm talking.

What are you going to do?

You've already done it all.

You haven't shot me yet.

Go ahead.

Girls, he's here!

Mom!

I won't sit!

Sana!

I won't sit!

Mom!

Enough, let her go!

Sana, my love.

You're finally back.

Let her go. Get up, Mom!

Give him the g*n.

Don't hurt my girls.

- You know to sh**t, kid?

- Yes.

First, you have to pull this.

I know, it's armed.

Where have you learnt?

Stay back!

I'm a nervous wreck, I'll sh**t.

sh**t your father?

Yes.

With what I've seen of you,

I'll definitely sh**t.

Go ahead, honey.

Iman, if she gives it to you,

it will be all over, right?

It won't be over.

It's always been this way.

You've always given in.

You gave him everything.

If I give it back, nothing changes.

Please, Sana, sweetheart.

Mom!

Rezvan, tell him to stay back!

Don't!