10 Facts About Mohsen Tanabandeh: A Star of Iranian Cinema and TV

3. Breakthrough in Iranian Television

While Tanabandeh made a name for himself in cinema, it was television that brought him widespread fame. His performance in Peytakht (Capital), a popular Iranian TV series that aired in 2011, catapulted him to stardom.

Playing the role of “Naghdi Mamooli,” a lovable and relatable character, Tanabandeh not only acted but also contributed as a writer and director for the series. The show’s success led to six seasons, solidifying Tanabandeh’s place as a household name in Iran.

Rising Star in Cinema and Theater

Tanabandeh made his cinematic debut in A Few Kilos of Dates for a Funeral (2006), directed by Saman Salour. The film’s success at international film festivals highlighted Tanabandeh’s talent. His powerful portrayal of emotionally complex characters made him stand out in the Iranian film industry.

Some of his most notable films include:

• Seven Minutes to Fall (Haft Daghigheh Ta Paeez), where he portrayed a father in a heart-wrenching drama.
• Saint Petersburg (San Petersburg), which showcased his comedic timing and versatility.
• Three and a Half (Seh Kham Habs), a gritty urban drama.

His role in Shattering Twenty Bones Simultaneously (Shekasteh Shodan Hamzaman Bist Ostokhan) earned him international recognition, winning awards in Australia and India.