Iranian animation “Legend of Sepehr” to be released in Russian cinemas
The Iranian animated feature film “Legend of Sepehr” is set for a wide theatrical release in Russia following its run in Iran. The film, directed by Emad Rahmani and Mehrdad Mehrabi, won the Best Animation award at the New York International Film Awards (NYIFA) in 2025.
Intelligence analysis by Llama

The Iranian animated feature film “Legend of Sepehr” is set for a wide theatrical release in Russia following its run in Iran. The film, directed by Emad Rahmani and Mehrdad Mehrabi, won the Best Animation award at the New York International Film Awards (NYIFA) in 2025. The film is centered on themes such as family, responsibility, courage, and standing against darkness.
Imagine a young boy named Sepehr and his loyal cheetah, Baboo, going on a brave adventure to rescue their family and friends from the clutches of a dark lord named Ahriman. Along the way, they meet new friends, face monsters, and discover the power of laughter. The story is like a mix of exciting action and heartwarming moments, with a message about standing up against darkness and being brave.
Analysis
A New Chapter for Iranian Animation in Russia
The release of “Legend of Sepehr” in Russian cinemas marks a significant milestone for Iranian animation. The film, directed by Emad Rahmani and Mehrdad Mehrabi, has already gained recognition in Iran and has now been selected for a wide theatrical release in Russia. This development is a testament to the growing interest in Iranian animation globally.
The film's success in Iran can be attributed to its engaging storyline, lovable characters, and stunning animation. The film's themes of family, responsibility, courage, and standing against darkness resonate with audiences of all ages. The film's director, Emad Rahmani, has stated that the film's message is one of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
The release of “Legend of Sepehr” in Russia is a significant step forward for Iranian animation. It demonstrates the growing recognition of Iranian animation globally and opens up new opportunities for Iranian filmmakers. The film's success in Russia will also pave the way for other Iranian animations to be released in the country.
The Minab School Tragedy and the Film's Significance
The film's release in Russia also serves as a reminder of the tragic events that unfolded in Minab, Hormozgan province, on February 28. The school was targeted by a missile strike that caused the building to collapse, trapping children and teachers beneath the rubble. The incident resulted in the loss of 168 lives and left many more injured.
The film's director, Emad Rahmani, has stated that the film is a tribute to the children of Minab and a reminder of the importance of standing against darkness. The film's message of hope and resilience in the face of adversity is a powerful reminder of the human spirit's ability to overcome even the most daunting challenges.
The Road Ahead for Iranian Animation
The release of “Legend of Sepehr” in Russia marks a significant milestone for Iranian animation. The film's success in Iran and its subsequent release in Russia demonstrate the growing interest in Iranian animation globally. The film's release in Russia also opens up new opportunities for Iranian filmmakers and paves the way for other Iranian animations to be released in the country.
Key points
- The Iranian animated feature film “Legend of Sepehr” is set for a wide theatrical release in Russia following its run in Iran.
- The film, directed by Emad Rahmani and Mehrdad Mehrabi, won the Best Animation award at the New York International Film Awards (NYIFA) in 2025.
- The film is centered on themes such as family, responsibility, courage, and standing against darkness.
- The release of “Legend of Sepehr” in Russia marks a significant milestone for Iranian animation.
- The film's success in Iran and its subsequent release in Russia demonstrate the growing interest in Iranian animation globally.
The release of “Legend of Sepehr” in Russia could lead to increased recognition and appreciation for Iranian animation globally. This could open up new opportunities for Iranian filmmakers and pave the way for other Iranian animations to be released in the country.
The release of “Legend of Sepehr” in Russia may also raise concerns about the film's potential impact on the global market. Some critics may view the film as a representation of Iranian culture, which could lead to controversy and backlash.



