From Nasser Taghvai, one of the original filmmakers of the Iranian New Wave, comes this rare glimpse into the performance of a ta'zieh, an ancient and uniquely Iranian passion play that celebrates the glory of martyrdom for the sake of justice. Based on stories and fables of Islam's prophet Mohammad, but influenced by Iranian folklore, the ta'zieh became the sole dramatic form in the world of Islam after the rise of the Shiite sect. The overall subject of any ta'zieh is the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, grandson of the prophet Muhammad. Specifically, the story of the Brave Hurr, the Imam's foe turned comrade, assumes a singular place in this documentary. In Persian with English subtitles.

Nasser Taghvai---Iran---2005---64 mins.

• Facets Video
  Release Date: 05/22/2007