The Twelve Seats 2016
In "The Twelve Seats (2016)", director Esmael Barari crafts a darkly comedic yet politically charged journey set against the backdrop of Iran's 1979 revolution.
Director: Esmael Barari
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Twelve Seats (2016) about?
The film follows Eskandar, a former chauffeur to Iran's deposed prime minister, who claims Hoveyda hid a valuable secret in one of twelve Paykan taxis. When no one believes him, he teams up with a skeptical journalist to uncover the truth behind the eccentric collection—and the looming political storm of 1979.
Who directed The Twelve Seats?
The Twelve Seats was directed by Esmael Barari, known for blending humor with sharp social commentary in Iranian cinema.
Who stars in The Twelve Seats?
The film features Ahmad Najafi, Dariush Asadzade, Afsar Asadi, Farzad Dozdameh, and Arjang Amirfazli in pivotal roles.
Is The Twelve Seats (2016) worth watching?
While it lacks an IMDb rating to gauge critical reception, The Twelve Seats offers a unique mix of comedy and drama that will appeal to fans of political satire. Its offbeat premise and character-driven storytelling make it a compelling watch for those seeking something fresh in Iranian cinema.
How long is The Twelve Seats?
The Twelve Seats runs for 110 minutes.
About The Twelve Seats (2016) — A political comedy where two outsiders chase a madman's secret
In "The Twelve Seats (2016)", director Esmael Barari crafts a darkly comedic yet politically charged journey set against the backdrop of Iran's 1979 revolution. The story follows Eskandar, a disgraced former driver to the Pahlavi regime's prime minister, Hoveyda, who's dismissed as a delusional conspiracy theorist until he stumbles upon a seemingly absurd but tantalizing secret. Claiming to know about a hidden treasure buried in one of twelve Paykan taxis—vehicles tied to Hoveyda's eccentric collections—Eskandar finds an unlikely ally in Amir Vaziri. Their quest blends satire and suspense as they navigate Tehran's chaotic streets, political intrigue, and personal desperation.
Barari's film thrives on sharp contrasts: the absurdity of a treasure hunt amid revolution's tension, the camaraderie between two mismatched protagonists, and the weight of history looming over every laugh. With its blend of genre-bending comedy and dramatic undertones, "The Twelve Seats" is a biting allegory for lost loyalty and the unpredictable consequences of power. Audiences will find themselves immersed in a world where every Paykan taxi could hold the key to redemption—or ruin.