Mahnaz Mohammadi, a courageous voice of resistance in Iran, is marking the premiere of her film 'Roya' at the Berlinale. The film explores the grim realities faced by many Iranians, particularly the experiences within Evin Prison—symbolic of state violence and arbitrary rule. Mohammadi, aged 51, has long integrated her political observations into her artistic endeavors, as seen in her previous acclaimed drama, 'Son - Mother'.

Mohammadi's work aims to shed light on the traumas faced by individuals in Iran, conveying personal and societal struggles through her narratives. In her conversation, she reflects on the frustrating and often heartbreaking truths about life and creativity in a country where the state heavily suppresses freedom. Her emotional recollection during the interview emphasizes the weight of these experiences.

The premiere of 'Roya' serves not only as a cinematic event but also as a protest against the oppressive conditions in Iran, highlighting the plight of those who resist within a system that seeks to silence them. Through her films and voice, Mohammadi seeks to advocate for women's rights and the broader movement for change in Iran, reinforcing the message that the artistic community can play a key role in highlighting such injustices and echoing the sentiment that 'all of Iran is a prison.'