Where does life end and cinema begin?

This question has stayed with me throughout the years, accompanying me through every challenge and uncertainty on my journey as a filmmaker. More than anything else, it has kept me moving forward.

My creative path began with writing when I was nine years old. I spent my childhood reading extensively and writing constantly. At the age of eleven, my first short story was published. Soon after, I turned to playwriting and began staging my own works. By the age of thirteen, my plays were being performed in small literary venues in my hometown.

At sixteen, I discovered cinema. Despite limited resources and countless obstacles, my brother Vahid and I began making short films independently. Together, we made seven independent short films, each one an opportunity to learn, experiment, and better understand the language of cinema.

Over the years, I continued writing screenplays while also working in cinematography and editing on various independent productions. Each experience deepened my understanding of storytelling and strengthened my commitment to filmmaking.

In 2026, after years of learning, experimentation, and persistence, Vahid and I independently produced our first professional short film, “Spice”.
The question remains unanswered. Perhaps that is why I continue to make films:
Where does life end and cinema begin?