Cinema Without Borders
Panahi faced significant delays in obtaining a U.S. visa; his planned appearance at NYFF was initially cancelled because of these problems. The visa backlog was largely due to changes in U.S. consular policy and also the U.S. government shutdown that affected visa processing. Despite these obstacles, the visa was eventually issued and Panahi was able to attend at least some of the U.S. events scheduled.
Panahi’s attendance in the U.S. marks a noteworthy moment: after years of restrictions (travel bans, filming bans), his ability to travel internationally reflects both the recognition of his work and the broader political/cultural dynamics. Panahi has faced severe constraints banned from making films, travelling, and repeatedly detained for his work. His filmmaking under censorship has become emblematic of resistance in cinema; his U.S. appearances now also highlight issues around freedom of expression globally and how filmmakers navigate states of suppression.
