For Neda (HBO)

About For Neda (HBO)

"For Neda" is a powerful and moving documentary conducted by HBO, which aired in 2010. It tells the personal story of Neda Agha-Soltan, a young Iranian woman whose death during the 2009 presidential campaigns in Iran became a global symbol of ongoing protest and struggle for democracy in Iran. Captured on a bystander's smartphone and shared across the globe, the tragic incident awakened the world to the growing movements of resistance within Iran. The film does a remarkable job of shedding light on Neda's life, her aspirations, and the events leading up to her untimely death.

Making / Production

Directed by Antony Thomas and produced by Saeed Kamali Dehghan, "For Neda" is not just a documentary but an open letter to the world about the current generation in Iran fighting for their rights. The filmmakers take us through interviews with Neda's family, her friends, and the people who were on the ground when she was shot. This offers viewers a personal and intimate look at the life that Neda lived and the legacy she left behind.

Actors

• Shohreh Aghdashloo as Narrator - The Academy Award-nominated actress gives an empathetic narration, drawing viewers into the story of Neda.
• Neda Agha-Soltan as Herself (archive footage) - Neda appears in videos and photos, providing a intimate view of her life and her fateful end.
• Hamed Agha-Soltan as Himself - Hamed, Neda's brother, gives a touching account of his sister's life and her tragic death.

Trivia / Interesting Facts about it

• The film is entirely in Persian with English subtitles, providing an authentic representation of the Iranian society and its voices.
• Despite being banned in Iran, the documentary was smuggled into the country and widely viewed, fuelling more protests.
• "For Neda" was released on the first anniversary of Neda's death.

Quotes

• "I'm not scared, but the people who should be scared are they who don't allow us our freedom and suppress people." - Neda Agha-Soltan
• "Her voice is and will be the voice of truth...the voice of freely expressed thoughts. The voice of freedom." - Shohreh Aghdashloo

Music, Soundtrack

• Sally Woodward Gentle and Edward Watkins composed the heart-wrenching original score for the documentary, bringing life to the emotional journey.
• The music in "For Neda" is a mix of traditional Iranian music and orchestral compositions, reflecting the blend of cultural heritage and modern struggle shown in the film.