The Legend of Sepehr, the new Iranian animated feature, has been reworked to better appeal to young audiences, including shortening the film and updating its dubbing, according to co-director Emad Rahmani.
According to IBland’s News, Rahmani said the general theatrical release began less than a week ago, with limited screens initially assigned. So far, The Legend of Sepehr has no official outdoor billboards or cinema posters, relying mainly on promotions through the children’s TV network Shabake Pooya. Rahmani noted hopes that children will flock to cinemas after school exams end.
Targeting Real Kids, Not Perfect Heroes
Rahmani explained that The Legend of Sepehr is primarily aimed at children aged 7 to 15. The protagonist, Sepehr, was intentionally designed without idealized perfection. Instead, he is curious, sometimes mischievous, fearful at times, and learning responsibility; traits that help young viewers relate to him throughout the story.
Audience reactions have been heartwarming, Rahmani said. At the film’s premiere screening attended by 500 children, many approached him with enthusiastic praise and requests for a sequel. This was especially meaningful for Rahmani, who previously directed an adult-oriented animation, Sword and Sorrow, which did not have a domestic theatrical release but was shown internationally.
Changes Between Festival and Public Screening
Rahmani emphasized that the current public version of The Legend of Sepehr differs from the cut shown at the Fajr Film Festival. The runtime has been reduced from 87 minutes to 80 minutes and 43 seconds to better hold the attention of young viewers. Based on feedback from the Isfahan Children and Youth Film Festival; where children and jurors viewed the film; scenes that might seem scary, such as depictions of giants or the villain’s climactic moments, were softened to feel more playful and fantasy-oriented.
Producers also revised the film’s dubbing for public release, responding to criticism of the festival version. The new voice cast and added humor aim to make The Legend of Sepehr more enjoyable for kids, even as the team remains proud of the original voice work.
Quality and Next Project: Guardians of the Sun
Rahmani acknowledged that while The Legend of Sepehr may not be the most technically advanced animation, it has achieved international recognition and awards that attest to its quality. He stressed that the team’s skills will only improve with each project. The next animated feature, Guardians of the Sun, currently in mix finishing stages, promises stronger visuals and technical growth compared to The Legend of Sepehr.
Contrary to claims that the studio focuses more on games than films, Rahmani explained that the teams work independently on separate projects and each receives dedicated attention. He believes this approach, along with audience feedback from both domestic and international markets, will elevate Iranian animation.
Animation’s Growing Presence in Iranian Festivals
Rahmani highlighted the evolving status of animated films in Iran. Years ago, no animated features appeared at the Fajr Film Festival; now at least three are confirmed to have reached the prestigious event. This signals that Iranian animation is moving toward a more industrialized stage, and Rahmani is confident that it will soon make significant global impact.
Details on Guardians of the Sun
Guardians of the Sun is described as a contemporary fantasy adventure about two ten-year-old boys in an ancient region who discover a group of artifact thieves. Their encounter awakens a mythical guardian, leading the children into an action-filled quest to recover the stolen piece. Directed by Rahmani and Mehrdad Mehrabi, the film’s visual world distinguishes it from its predecessor. With its initial mix complete, the filmmakers have submitted it for consideration at the upcoming 32nd Fajr Film Festival.
Source: Mehrnews