Iranian actor Laleh Marzban receives backlash after Venice film festival speech
The Guardian · September 18, 2026Original source ↗
What happened
Laleh Marzban won the best actress award at the Venice film festival for her role in Falling House. Following her acceptance speech, in which she dedicated her award to the women of Iran, she faced criticism from authorities and state media.
Why it matters
This incident highlights ongoing issues regarding women's rights in Iran and the risks faced by individuals who speak out on such matters.
How this story affects people
How does this story affect you if you are a woman in Iran?
You may feel the weight of increased scrutiny and repression for speaking out on women's rights issues, as Marzban's speech has drawn severe criticism from state authorities. This incident highlights the risks faced by those who advocate for gender equality in a restrictive environment.
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