Keivan Mohseni: The Lone Maverick of Iranian Independent Cinema
In a cinematic landscape where collaboration is often seen as the key to success, Keivan Mohseni stands apart. He is a filmmaker, but not in the traditional sense. He is a writer, director, cinematographer, editor, producer, and even distributor—all rolled into one. His films are high-energy, visually striking, and rich with the tension and movement often reserved for big-budget productions. Yet, he operates within the constraints of independent filmmaking, relying not on resources but on sheer willpower, ingenuity, and an unwavering belief in storytelling.
In this episode of Cozy Corner with Hossein Nasiri, we had the privilege of diving into Keivan’s world, exploring his journey, his process, and the philosophy that fuels his relentless pursuit of cinema.
A One-Man Orchestra in the World of Film
Keivan likens his filmmaking process to that of a one-man orchestra—playing every instrument, conducting every note, and crafting a symphony out of solitary effort. His journey began in Gerash, a small town in southern Iran. Unlike Tehran, where competition pushes filmmakers to create out of comparison, Keivan found that being in his hometown allowed him to work in solitude, relying solely on his internal drive. “When I leave Gerash, I feel like I lose something,” he says. “I’ve never been able to make films anywhere else.”
This deep connection to his hometown is not just sentimental; it is fundamental to his creativity. The geography, the isolation, and even the language—his scripts are often written in Achomi, a local dialect—form the foundation of his stories. His films feel grounded, raw, and immediate, creating an aesthetic that is uniquely his own.
Cinema as an Act of Survival
Keivan’s independence in filmmaking was not entirely by choice—it was born out of necessity. When he started, he lacked access to professional cinematographers, editors, or large-scale production teams. Instead of waiting for the right collaborators to come along, he took matters into his own hands.
“I wanted to make a film, but there was no cinematographer. So I thought, why not shoot it myself? I wanted to edit, but there was no editor. So I learned to edit.”
This DIY approach might sound like a limitation, but for Keivan, it became his greatest strength. His self-reliance has allowed him to maintain complete creative control over his work, ensuring that every frame, every cut, and every shot carries his signature style. In the process, he has cultivated a filmmaking method that is efficient, adaptable, and innovative.
His work has drawn comparisons to Robert Rodriguez, the American filmmaker known for his guerrilla-style filmmaking. Rodriguez famously made El Mariachi on a shoestring budget, doing everything himself. Keivan operates in a similar way but within the Iranian film industry—a space where high-budget productions are often seen as the only viable path to success.
Breaking the Myth of Big Budgets
One of Keivan’s biggest challenges has been the prevailing industry mindset that equates high costs with high quality. In Iran, where many professionals in the film industry rely on big-budget productions for their livelihoods, Keivan’s efficient approach is met with skepticism.
“Filmmaking is supposed to be expensive,” he notes with a wry smile. “If you tell someone you can do it for a fraction of the price, they don’t see it as an advantage—they see it as a threat.”
This skepticism extends beyond just the financial aspects of production. When working on larger projects, Keivan has found that delegating tasks to others often results in disappointment. His high standards and hands-on approach make it difficult for him to trust others with his vision.
“I’ve tried working with bigger teams, but it often ends with me thinking, ‘I could’ve done this better myself.’ It’s not about being a control freak—it’s about knowing that when you do it yourself, you get exactly what you want.”
Action, Movement, and a Cinematic Language of His Own
Keivan’s films stand out in the Iranian independent scene for their dynamic energy. Unlike the slow, contemplative pace often associated with Iranian cinema, his films are filled with action, movement, and intensity. Chase sequences, physical confrontations, and high-stakes drama are common themes in his work.
“When people see my films, they think there must have been a massive production team behind them,” he says. “They don’t realize that behind the scenes, it’s often just me and a couple of friends figuring things out.”
His approach to action sequences is particularly unique. Where many filmmakers rely on large crews and intricate choreography, Keivan embraces spontaneity and efficiency. He uses minimal equipment, often working with a skeleton crew to keep things agile and flexible.
This guerrilla-style filmmaking has led to incredible results. His short series Kashokhin, produced for the Iranian streaming platform Filimo, was an action-packed thriller made on a minimal budget. Despite the constraints, it managed to reach international platforms and gain recognition worldwide. His 2017 short film Bog was another breakthrough moment, sparking discussions about the possibilities of high-budget aesthetics within low-budget filmmaking.
From Local Roots to Global Recognition
Despite working largely outside of Iran’s mainstream film industry, Keivan’s work has gained international attention. His films have been screened at major festivals, including the Tehran International Short Film Festival, Cinéma Vérité, Seriencamp, ShorTS, and Marseille. His ability to create compelling narratives with limited resources has earned him a reputation as one of Iran’s most innovative independent filmmakers.
Beyond making films, he has also been involved in shaping the future of Iranian cinema. As a jury member for various festivals and competitions, he plays a role in mentoring and recognizing emerging talent. Yet, he remains firmly committed to his independent approach, resisting the lure of commercial filmmaking in favor of creative freedom.
Lessons from a One-Man Filmmaker
Keivan’s journey offers valuable lessons not just for aspiring filmmakers, but for anyone pursuing a creative path. Here are some key takeaways from his approach:
1. Creativity Thrives in Constraints
Rather than seeing limitations as obstacles, Keivan embraces them as opportunities. His ability to turn scarce resources into high-impact cinema proves that storytelling, not budget, is the most critical element of filmmaking.
2. Learning by Doing
Keivan is entirely self-taught. He didn’t attend film school or work his way up through the industry. Instead, he learned through trial and error, refining his craft with each project. His journey is a testament to the power of hands-on learning and persistence.
3. Authenticity Over Perfection
While many filmmakers chase technical perfection, Keivan prioritizes authenticity and raw energy. He believes that films should be driven by emotion and narrative rather than by polished aesthetics alone.
4. The Power of Independence
By taking control of every aspect of production, Keivan has built a career on his own terms. His approach challenges the notion that filmmakers need massive crews and big budgets to create meaningful work.
5. Trust is a Double-Edged Sword
While collaboration is essential in most creative fields, Keivan has learned that trusting the wrong people can be just as damaging as not trusting anyone at all. His experiences in professional productions have reinforced his belief in self-reliance.
The Future of Independent Filmmaking in Iran
Keivan Mohseni’s story is not just about filmmaking—it’s about resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of a singular vision. His work challenges industry norms and proves that cinema is not defined by its budget but by its heart and soul.
As the Iranian film industry continues to evolve, voices like Keivan’s are more crucial than ever. He represents a new generation of filmmakers who refuse to be bound by limitations, who carve their own paths, and who remind us that true creativity is about making something out of nothing.
For those who dream of making films but feel held back by lack of resources, Keivan’s journey serves as a powerful reminder: If you have a story to tell, nothing can stop you—except waiting for permission.
Keivan Mohseni’s corner of Cozy Corner was an inspiring look into the mind of a filmmaker who refuses to conform. His story is a testament to the idea that true artistry is about taking risks, embracing mistakes, and finding ways to create—even when the odds are stacked against you.
What do you think? Can independent filmmakers truly thrive in an industry built on big budgets? Let’s continue the conversation.