The Warden
While transferring all inmates to a new facility, the warden of an old prison discovers that one death row prisoner is missing.
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The Warden (2019), directed by Nima Javidi, is a gripping mystery drama set in 1960s Iran. The film follows Major Nemat Jahed (Navid Mohammadzadeh), a strict prison warden tasked with overseeing the evacuation of an old prison to make way for an airport expansion. As the transfer progresses, Jahed discovers that a prisoner known as "Indian" is missing. Determined to protect his reputation and secure a promotion to chief of police, Jahed embarks on a tense search to locate the fugitive before his superiors find out. The film delves into themes of authority, justice, and moral conflict, offering a suspenseful exploration of duty and personal integrity.
The Warden has garnered critical acclaim, winning Best Film at the 21st Iran Cinema Celebration and the 20th Hafez Awards. Navid Mohammadzadeh received accolades for his performance, including Best Actor at both ceremonies. The film also earned the Special Jury Prize at the 37th Fajr Film Festival and the Student Jury Award at the International Crime and Punishment Film Festival in Istanbul.
With its taut storytelling and compelling performances, The Warden is a standout in contemporary Iranian cinema.