According to a statement by the Farabi Cinema Foundation, the selection committee chose the film, directed by Babak Khajeh Pasha and starring Maral Baniadam, after a 10-day review process, IRNA reported.
The committee, comprising nine members, including film directors and industry professionals, picked ‘In the Arms of the Tree’ from among three finalists, which also included the documentary ‘Isatis’ by Alireza Dehghan and the film ‘Waste Town’ by Ahmad Bahrami.
The selection was made after a final meeting of the committee, during which Shabnam Moqaddami was unanimously chosen as the spokesperson.
The film’s selection comes as a surprise to some, as Parviz Shahbazi’s new film ‘Roxana’ was rumored to be a strong contender for the Oscar nod. However, ‘In the Arms of the Tree’ ultimately won out, and will now represent Iran in the 97th Academy Awards.
IRAN DAILY