Medan has announced a collaboration with Neon to co-finance the U.S. theatrical release of Jafar Panahi’s award-winning film, It Was Just an Accident. The film, which has garnered significant acclaim, will premiere in New York on October 15, 2023, followed by a release in Los Angeles on October 17. A nationwide rollout is set to follow shortly thereafter.
The film, described as a thriller, serves as France’s official submission for the Best International Feature category at the upcoming Academy Awards. Directed by Panahi and produced alongside Philippe Martin, It Was Just an Accident explores the harrowing journey of a group of former political prisoners as they confront their past, including their interactions with a former captor.
Negin Salmasi, Chief Content Officer at Medan, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with Neon, emphasizing the importance of Jafar Panahi in contemporary cinema. “We’re thrilled to collaborate with Neon. Jafar Panahi stands as one of cinema’s defining voices — a master whose career has redefined artistic courage and whose vision remains as globally urgent and necessary as ever,” Salmasi stated.
This film marks Panahi’s first project following his release from prison in Iran. Notably, it has already achieved remarkable recognition, winning the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and the Sydney Award for Best Film at the Sydney International Film Festival. In addition, Panahi received several accolades, including the Silver Medallion Tribute for Director at the Telluride Film Festival and a Special Tribute Award at the Toronto International Film Festival.
Since its initial screenings at various film festivals, including Beyond Fest and the New York Film Festival, It Was Just an Accident has captured the attention of audiences and critics alike. It also featured prominently at the London Film Festival. Looking ahead, Panahi is scheduled to receive the Icon Award at the Middleburg Film Festival and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Rome Film Festival.
As the film prepares for its theatrical release, anticipation continues to build around It Was Just an Accident, reinforcing Jafar Panahi‘s status as a pivotal figure in global cinema.
