Mani Haghighi: From Child Actor to Renowned Film Director and Screenwriter

Notable Films and Artistic Contributions
Abadan (2002): Debut Feature
Haghighi’s debut film, Abadan, stands out for its unconventional narrative structure. It explores themes of societal decay and personal alienation, setting the tone for his future work.
Workers Are Working (2005): Breakthrough Success
This film garnered critical acclaim and earned Haghighi the Crystal Simorgh for Best Screenplay at the Fajr Film Festival. The film examines the struggles of the working class, blending social realism with dark humor.
Canaan (2007): Family Drama with Artistic Depth
Canaan is a poignant portrayal of familial relationships and social issues, showcasing Haghighi’s ability to craft emotionally charged narratives with stylistic finesse.
Simple Reception (2011): International Recognition
One of his most acclaimed works, Simple Reception, is a minimalist road film that explores existential themes. It received the NAPTEC Award at the Berlin Film Festival and was praised for its sparse storytelling and intense performances.
The Dragon Enters! (2015): Experimental Cinema
This film challenges conventional filmmaking with its quasi-documentary style. It blurs the lines between reality and fiction, reflecting Haghighi’s interest in experimental cinema.
Pig (2017): Controversial Satire
Pig is a biting satire that critiques censorship, artistic freedom, and societal hypocrisy in Iran. It won awards internationally and sparked debates over artistic expression and political censorship.
About Eli and Other Acting Roles
Apart from his directing and screenwriting, Haghighi has acted in several films, including About Eli, No Men Allowed, Marmooz, and Aseman Mahboob, showcasing his versatility in front of the camera.
May 27, 2025 | 7:16 pm