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Secrets of the Jinn Valley Treasure + Introduction (15*)

Masterpieces of the Iranian New Wave

,Cinema 1
A man and two women in a glamorous building

The final cinematic work of director Ebrahim Golestan, this political satire places the ills of a society under a comic magnifying glass.  

A Monty Python–esque allegory about the corrosive impact of oil exports on Iranian life, following a villager who discovers a hidden fortune, becomes rich overnight, and swiftly transforms into a tyrant. 

The film’s troubled history began even before its release. Golestan felt compelled to conceal the story during production, aware of how his intentions may be skewed. When it finally reached cinemas, the film was banned after 2 weeks. The questions remained – were they misinterpretations, or simply interpretations?  

Featuring several major stars of the era, including comedian Parviz Sayyad and Mary Apick. Golestan re-edited the film but the director’s version was never publicly screened… until now. This screening marks the world premiere of the brand-new restoration of the film’s director’s cut. 

Tagged with: Cinema Masterpieces of the Iranian New Wave 2026

In Persian with English subtitles. World restoration premiere.

Please note: This film contains a graphic scene of animal slaughter.

Introduced by season curator Ehsan Khoshbakht. 

Presented in partnership with the Iran Heritage Foundation.

Film information
  • Release year   1974
  • Country of origin   Iran
  • Director   Ebrahim Golestan
  • Runtime   2hrs 10mins
Iran Heritage Foundation logo

Cinema 1

Location
Barbican Cinema 1 is located within the main Barbican building on Level -2. Head to Level G and walk towards the Lakeside Terrace where you’ll find stairs and lifts to take you down to the venue floor.   

Address
Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London
EC2Y 8DS

Public transport
The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.