Heshmat, an exemplary husband and father, gets up very early every day. Where does he go? Pouya cannot imagine killing another man, yet he is told he must do so. Javad doesn't know that proposing to his beloved won't be the only surprise on her birthday. Bahram is a physician but is unable to practice medicine. He must explain to his visiting niece the reason for his life as an outcast. The four stories of Golden Berlin Bear winner offer variations on the crucial themes of moral strength and the death penalty, asking to what extent individual freedom can be expressed under a despotic regime.

"Iranian cinema master Mohammad Rasoulof's new film is a merciless critique of Iran's political regime told through loosely connected stories. It is also an extensive study of humanity which illustrates the key existential question – should one live in passive compliance or act despite conflicting circumstances." (Aistė Račaitytė)

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