In 2011, Iranian filmmaker released A Separation ( Jodaeiye Nader az Simin ), a domestic drama that rapidly transcended its borders to become a global phenomenon. Winner of the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, it remains one of the most critically acclaimed movies of the 21st century.

The film masterfully portrays the stark contrast between the middle-class and lower-class characters, highlighting the economic disparities and social tensions that exist in Iran. Nader, a middle-class man, is struggling to make ends meet, while his wife Simin, a teacher, is frustrated with the limitations placed on her by their social status. In contrast, the lower-class characters, such as the maid Razieh and her husband, are depicted as being trapped in a cycle of poverty and desperation.

Alongside its historic Oscar win, the film won the prestigious Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival and the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film. Legendary critic Roger Ebert even named it the best film of 2011. Understanding the Risks of Torrenting