Once Upon a Time, Cinema

The film follows a character known as The Cinematographer, who embarks on a journey to find someone named Atieh. This quest leads him back in time from the early twentieth century to the reign of Naser al-Din Shah in 19th century Iran. While there, he is captured by the Shah's guards but captivates the Shah by showcasing films from the history of Iranian cinema.

The story emphasizes the transformative power of film as The Cinematographer introduces the magical medium to the Shah and his family. This moment not only reflects the historical context of cinema in Iran but also weaves a narrative that combines elements of fantasy and comedy. With a diverse cast including Ezzatollah Entezami and Mehdi Hashemi, the film stands out for its imaginative approach to storytelling.