“My Favourite Cake” Triumphs at 74th Berlinale Despite Filmmakers’ Travel Ban

The filmmakers, Maryam Moghaddam and Behtash Sanaeeh, faced significant obstacles with the Iranian authorities’ travel ban, preventing them from attending the Berlin Film Festival. Despite their absence, the film’s press conference featured a moving message delivered by actors Lily Farhadpour and Esmail Mehrabi, conveying the directors’ deep emotions about being unable to witness the premiere of their three-year labor of love.

“My Favourite Cake” explores the life of Mahin, portrayed by Lily Farhadpour, a 70-year-old woman in Tehran navigating loneliness after the loss of her husband and daughter. The film’s narrative unfolds during an afternoon tea with friends, offering a poignant glimpse into Mahin’s quest to rediscover joy. Esmail Mehrabi plays the role of Faramarz, the elderly taxi driver who becomes a central figure in Mahin’s transformative journey.

This collaborative effort involving Iran, France, Sweden, and Germany faced additional challenges during post-production when the directors’ passports were confiscated, leading to the looming threat of criminal charges. The Iranian authorities’ actions prompted a collective response from the global film community, with around 30 organizations, including the Berlinale and PEN America, advocating for the directors’ freedom and lifting of the travel ban.