Bahman Ghobadi is a renowned Iranian Kurdish filmmaker recognized for his profound narratives about Kurdish life and the human condition in war-torn regions. Born on February 1, 1969, in Baneh, Kurdistan, Iran, Ghobadi's work often highlights the struggles and resilience of Kurdish people. He is a pivotal figure in Iranian cinema, known for his raw, emotional storytelling and his ability to bring Kurdish issues to an international audience.

Ghobadi's notable films include "A Time for Drunken Horses" (2000), which won the Caméra d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival and depicts the hardships faced by Kurdish siblings in a smuggling community. Another significant work is "Turtles Can Fly" (2004), the first film shot in Iraq after Saddam Hussein's fall, focusing on children in a Kurdish refugee camp. His film "No One Knows About Persian Cats" (2009), which won a Special Jury Prize at Cannes, explores the underground music scene in Tehran and the difficulties musicians face under censorship.

In addition to his filmmaking, Ghobadi has been an active supporter of the Woman Life Freedom movement. He has used his platform to advocate for human rights and freedom of expression, particularly in the wake of the death of Mahsa Amini and the subsequent protests. His outspoken support for these movements underscores his commitment to using art as a tool for social change​.

Selected Filmography:

• "A Time for Drunken Horses" (2000)
• "Marooned in Iraq" (2002)
• "Turtles Can Fly" (2004)
• "Half Moon" (2006)
• "No One Knows About Persian Cats" (2009)
• "Rhino Season" (2012)
• "Words with Gods" (2014)
• "A Flag without a Country" (2015)
• "The Four Walls" (2021)​