I would have had the same narrative, regardless of the atmosphere and the restrictions.

I prefer to stay in my country. But this doesn't mean if someone does want to leave Iran, I think they've done something wrong - the desire to leave is completely understandable.

It was important to me to make a film where I don't show the past but where the spectators can see the past.

I really think that people who want to think more serious have to go and watch theater. Theater is a very sterilized art form. Not as much as music, but very close to music.

It's been interesting to see how similar audiences in the East and West are, actually, and how it makes you realize that when politicians emphasize the differences between our cultures, it's usually because it benefits them more so than us.

I gained a great deal from the period during which I worked in theater and I value those things a great deal.

One of the biggest blessings in my life is that I have a very wonderful family, a lovely wife and two lovely daughters.