The Iranian series “The Savage,” directed by Tehran – Houman Seyyedi, will perform an international premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), which is scheduled to be held in Toronto, Canada from September 4th to 14th.
“The Savage” has been chosen to appear in TIFF’s Primetime Program, and is the only representative of West Asia in this section, Ilna reported.
TIFF’s 2025 Primetime Program has been advocating for serialized storytelling from around the world for 10 years.
Outside of Iran, this year we welcome outstanding series from Austria, Canada, Germany, Hungary, India, Italy, Norway, Rwanda, UK, Senegal, US and South Africa.
Tiff celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Primetime program and is shining the spotlight on extraordinary international series and boundary-pushing episode storytelling. Since its launch in 2015, Primetime has been providing viewers with prestige series from around the world and Auteur-led television for the first time, recognizing the creative power and cultural influence of the medium.
In this fascinating miniseries from Sayedy (World War II), a catastrophic tragedy places workers on a clash with authorities.
The series stands out for its honest portrayal of working class struggles and urban alienation. Its gray tone, intense silence and calm visuals speak more eloquently than dialogue, depicting reality that reflects the lives of countless forgotten people.
What deeply affects “savage people” is their refusal to manipulate their emotions. There are no theatrical meltdowns or sentimental tricks. Instead, life itself – quiet, slow, suffocating – becomes the central figure. Emotional tension is constructed quietly, rooted in realism.
The cast includes Javad Ezati, Negar Javaherian, Ehsan Mansoori, Danial Faraji, Zahra Madadi, Ehsan Amani and others.
Houman Seyedi, 44, is an Iranian actor, director, screenwriter and editor. He has received various acclaim, including six Crystal Simoogs, and he has become the only director to win three victories in the Special Jue Award category, two Hafez Awards, the Iranian Film Critics Association Award, the NetPac Award and the Asian New Talent Award. His sixth film, World War III (2022), won the Orizzonti Award for Best Film at the 79th Venice International Film Festival.
The Toronto International Film Festival is one of the most prestigious international film festivals in the world. For 11 days, film lovers, filmmakers, industry experts and media are seeing the best in new cinemas, from established auers to new talent. As one of the most important cultural events in the world, the festival strives consistently to set the standard of excellence in film programming. Films are chosen based on quality and originality. The premiere will take priority.
TIFF also promotes contact among industry experts to support the development of Canada’s motion picture industry. The level of engagement the festival maintains annually is unique. Frenzy viewers and filmmakers have an unprecedented level of access to each other when exchanging ideas about the arts and business of filmmaking.
Film buyers and other industry experts can choose from screenings and specialized industry programming that allow them to make informed business decisions. The festival also offers excellent resources and networking opportunities for film industry professionals.
SS/SAB