KCET Presents 'Bridge to Iran' A Five-Part Documentary Series Exploring Modern Iranian Society and the Vibrant Persian Culture
Burbank, Calif. - Oct. 17, 2013 - KCET, the
nation's largest independent public television station, presents a unique
five-part documentary series, Bridge to Iran, exploring the rich lives of Iranian citizens and the vibrant Persian
culture. With more than half a million Iranians
living in Los Angeles, the series fills a knowledge gap by providing Angelenos
with an insider's view on modern Iranian society, through documentaries by
Iranian directors, living both inside Iran and within the Iranian diaspora. The
series begins on Tuesday, Oct. 29 at 9 p.m. and will air every Tuesday until
Nov. 26.
Bridge to Iran presents
memorable characters, confronted with a wide range of obstacles and
opportunities as they navigate their lives through a changing social and
political landscape. The series is a direct response to the cultural
misunderstandings and political tensions that have developed between Iran and
the U.S. since the Iranian revolution. It also avoids simplistic
categorizations and stereotypes about Iran to provide new insights and
understandings of a nation, a people, and culture that most Americans have
little knowledge.
Host Parisa Soultani,
who adds layers of meaning through personal interviews with each filmmaker,
introduces each program in the series. Episode descriptions and airdates are as
follows:
Oct. 29 at 9 p.m.
The Queen and I is Nahid
Persson Sarvestani's thought-provoking documentary about her friendship with
Queen Farah, the wife of the Shah of Iran, demonstrates how even those at most
odds -- politically, idealistically -- can find middle ground and
understanding.
Nov. 5 at 9 p.m.
which has always been closely intertwined with the country's tumultuous
political history.
Nov. 12 at 9 p.m.
look at how folkloric entertainment is challenged by modern political and
economic changes in Tehran. Siah Bâzi theater
troupes -- similar to Commedia dell'arte -- traditionally performed at weddings
and parties led by men and women in full harlequin garb making impromptu skits
peppered with subtle commentary on current events and politics. When Tehran's
troupe faces the closing of their 400-year-old theater due to changing cultural
shifts, the performers face uncertain futures as truck drivers and tea-servers.
Nov. 19 at 9 p.m.
We Are Half of Iran's Population provides an
extraordinarily intimate and timely look at the country. Three months before Iran's presidential elections Iranian women's rights
activists -- consisting of a vast spectrum of different points of view from
religious to secular and ordinary women -- are filmed posing their questions to
the 10 candidates and three of them discuss their opinions after watching the
film. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, however, is not willing to take part in the film or
to respond.
Nov. 26 at 9 p.m.
Where Do I Belong? plunges into an unusual and
seldom-discussed phenomenon transpiring in the Middle East, whereby Afghans --
fleeing poverty, war and destitution -- illegally resettle in Iran and enter
nuptial relationships with Persian women. This occurs even despite
inter-marital cultural conflicts and a broader Iranian socio-cultural framework
not gamely poised to accept interracial romance or marriage.
ABOUT KCET
On-air, online and in the community, KCET plays a vital
role in the cultural and educational enrichment of Southern and Central California.
KCET offers a wide range of award-winning local programming as well as the
finest public television programs from around the world. Throughout its nearly
50-year history, KCET has won hundreds of major awards for its local and
regional news and public affairs programming, its national drama and
documentary productions, its quality educational family and children's
programs, its outreach and community services and its website, kcet.org. KCET
is a donor-supported community institution. For additional information about
KCET productions, web-exclusive content, programming schedules and community
events, please visit kcet.org. KCET is a service of KCETLink.
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