THE Voice of Dust AND Ash

  When Iran’s ayatollah banned music in the entire country, instruments became contraband, and artists were exiled, imprisoned, and executed. As the government rescinded human rights and self expression, Mohammad Reza Shajarian risked everything to confront the regime, singing truth to power.  The film is seen through the animated prism of Shajarian’s internationally renowned song, “Morghe Sahar”, performed at the finale of all his concerts and widely considered the Unofficial National Anthem for Iranian Freedom. 

The directorial debut of Iranian American filmmaker Mandana Biscotti, the film is a definitive exploration of Shajarian’s music, lyrics and songs- all of which coincide with Iran’s watershed moments.It features appearances by several Iranian notables in the Arts and Academia. The score is by three-time Academy Award® nominated composer J. Ralph, whose credits include Man on Wire, The Cove, Virunga, Racing Extinction, and Jim: The James Foley Story.