Jafar Panahi
DirectingAbout Jafar Panahi
Jafar Panahi (born in July 11, 1960) is a representative of Iranian “New Wave.” He is one of the leaders of contemporary Iranian cinema. Panahi’s work, from his first attempts to discuss social issues to his later and braver discussions of taboo topics in Iran are a creative reflection on the nature of cinema and human society, and are imbued with humanity. In 2010, the court in Iran sentenced Jafar Panahi to six years in prison. In addition, according to the sentence, Panahi was banned from making films for 20 years, giving interviews to local and international media outlets, and leaving Iran. Three Faces was his fourth film (after This Is Not a Film, Closed Curtain, and Taxi) shot after his arrest. The director did not attend the premiere due to being banned from leaving Iran. Panahi is a student of Abbas Kiarostami, whose influence is especially clear in Three Faces, reminiscent of such acclaimed masterpieces as The Wind Will Carry Us and Taste of Cherry.
Jafar Panahi Movies & Career Overview
The filmography of Jafar Panahi reflects a strong mix of popular and critically appreciated roles. Across 19 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.
Dominant Genre
A large portion of Jafar Panahi's work falls within the Documentary genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.
Success Ratio
Approximately 58% of Jafar Panahi's films maintain ratings above 6.5, indicating a consistent level of audience approval.
One of the most highly rated entries in their career remains Nasrin, which stands out as a key performance.
Best Jafar Panahi Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Jafar Panahi's career based on audience ratings.
Full Filmography
Every movie Jafar Panahi has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Where Are You, Jafar Panahi? | himself | Flop | Similar → |
| 2023 | And, Towards Happy Alleys | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2022 | No Bears | Jafar Panahi | Hit | Similar → |
| 2022 | Jiseok | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2021 | The Year of the Everlasting Storm | - | Hit | Similar → |
| 2021 | Life | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2020 | Nasrin | Self | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 2020 | Hidden | Self | Hit | Similar → |
| 2018 | 3 Faces | Jafar Panahi | Hit | Similar → |
| 2016 | 76 Minutes and 15 seconds with Abbas Kiarostami | Himself | Hit | Similar → |
| 2015 | Taxi | Self | Hit | Similar → |
| 2013 | Closed Curtain | Himself | Hit | Similar → |
| 2011 | This Is Not a Film | Self | Hit | Similar → |
| 2008 | Critic | Self | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 2006 | Iran: A Cinematographic Revolution | Himself | Average | Similar → |
| 2005 | Cinema Iran | Self | Average | Similar → |
| 2004 | Journey to the Land of the Traveler | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1995 | Through the Olive Trees | Self | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1994 | Behind the Scenes of 'Under the Olive Trees' | Self | Flop | Similar → |
Jafar Panahi - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Jafar Panahi?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Jafar Panahi is "Nasrin" with a rating of 10.0/10.
How many movies has Jafar Panahi acted in?
Jafar Panahi has been featured in at least 19 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Jafar Panahi?
Other notable films include "Critic", "Through the Olive Trees", and "Taxi".