The Persian Version (2023)

The Story

Coming from two countries at odds with each other, Iranian-American Leila (Layla Mohammadi) strives to find balance and embrace her opposing cultures, while boldly challenging the labels society is so quick to project upon her. When her family reunites in New York City for her father’s heart transplant, Leila navigates her relationships at arm’s length in an effort to keep her “real” life separate from her family life. 

However, when her secret is unceremoniously revealed, so are the distinct parallels between her life and that of her mother Shireen (Niousha Noor). Punctuated by a bright color palette, snappy comedic relief, and vibrant dance numbers, “The Persian Version” delivers an honest portrayal of a woman who remains unapologetically herself, blended seamlessly into a heartfelt story about family, belonging, and the undeniable influence of pop music.

The Deets

Rating: n/a
Concerns: n/a
Runtime: 1h 47m
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Lgbtq+, Romance
Original Language: English, Persian
Release Date (US Theaters): October 13, 2023 Limited

Main Cast

Layla Mohammadi as Leila
Niousha Noor as Shirin
Kamand Shafieisabet as young Shirin
Bijan Daneshmand as Ali Reza
Bella Warda as Mamanjoon

Production & Crew

Distributor:  Sony Pictures Classics
Production Co: Marakesh Films, A Bigger Boat, Archer Gray, AgX
Director(s): Maryam Keshavarz
Producer(s): Maryam Keshavarz, Anne Carey, Ben Howe, Luca Borghese, Peter Block, Cory Neal
Writer(s): Maryam Keshavarz
Cinematography: André Jäger
Music:  Rostam Batmanglij
Editor: Abolfazl Talooni, JoAnne Yarrow
Hair/Makeup Lead: 
Costumes: Burcu Yamak

The Trailer