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February 27, 2012

Iran and Pakistan Films Win First Academy Awards 
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The 2012 Academy Awards were announced on Sunday. "The Artist" won best
picture. There a number of notable winners. Eighty-two-year-old
Christopher Plummer became the oldest Oscar winner ever for his
supporting role in "Beginners." Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy became the first
Pakistani filmmaker to win an Oscar for her documentary, "Saving Face,"
about acid attack victims. And "A Separation" became the first Iranian
film to win best foreign film. Asghar Farhadi wrote and directed the
film.

Asghar Farhadi: "At this time, many Iranians all over the world are
watching us, and I imagine them to be very happy. They are happy not
just because of an important award or a film or a filmmaker, but
because, at the time, when talk of war, intimidation and aggression is
exchanged between politicians, the name of their country, Iran, is
spoken here through her glorious culture, a rich and ancient culture
that has been hidden under the heavy dust of politics. I proudly offer
this award to the people of my country, a people who respect all
cultures and civilizations and despise hostility and resentment. Thank
you so much."



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