Circumstance

Free-spirited Tehran teens Atafeh (Nikohl Boosheri) and Shireen (Sarah Kazemy) struggle with their burgeoning sexuality under the rigid rules of an oppressive theocracy in this provocative drama from first-time writer/producer/director Maryam Keshavarz. Atafeh comes from a wealthy family, and thrives on the energy and creativity of the Iranian capital's underground art scene. Her brother, Mehran, a former classical musician, has just returned from drug rehab. Determined to lead a righteous life, he renounces his former ways and seeks salvation through joining the morality police. Meanwhile, Atafeh and her best friend, Shireen, discover a love they never thought possible while railing against the restrictions imposed on them by the religious zealots who seek to govern their every thought and action. Recognizing their rebellion, Mehran becomes consumed with rescuing Shireen from his sister's reckless influence, even at the risk of destroying his entire family.