The feature film Bidad, directed by Soheil Beiraghi, was released on YouTube after being produced in Iran without state authorization and featuring women performing without mandatory hijab. The film’s vocal tracks feature Iranian singer Parastoo Ahmadi.
Bidad is Beiraghi’s fourth feature film, starring Sarvin Zabetian, Amir Jadidi, and Leili Rashidi. The storyline centers on “Seti,” a young female vocalist who refuses to accept prohibitions on women’s public performances. She sings on the streets to make her voice heard, becoming a prominent figure after videos of her street performances circulate on social media.
The film was produced without official government permits due to its portrayal of women without mandatory hijab, female vocal performances, and explicit opposition to state restrictions.
Bidad premiered at the 59th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, where it received the Special Jury Prize in the Crystal Globe Competition. Festival organizers confirmed that the film was produced independently and could not pass Islamic Republic censorship due to its critical tone. The film’s title was kept confidential until June 25, 2025, allowing crew members to leave Iran without facing security intervention.
