Abbas Kiarostami
Abbas Kiarostami (1940–2016) was an Iranian filmmaker, screenwriter, poet, and photographer widely regarded as one of the most influential directors in world cinema. He graduated from university with a degree in fine arts before starting work as a graphic designer. He then joined the Center for Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults, where he started a film section, and this started his career as a filmmaker at the age of 30. Associated with the Iranian New Wave, he became known for his minimalist storytelling, blending fiction with documentary realism, and exploring themes of childhood, identity, and human connection. His acclaimed films include Close-Up, Taste of Cherry (which won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival) and Where Is the Friend's House?.