Banality in the Iranian Cinema

This study employed grounded theory methodology to dissect and classify the elements influencing the purported downturn in the artistic merit of Iranian cinema from 1978 to 2023. The investigation zeroes in on the discourse of distinguished Iranian filmmakers, government figures, and critics, aiming to distill the pivotal determinants and motives for the perceived increase in the mediocrity of the national film output. Data comprises public declarations by key cinematic influencers across a spectrum of media outputs, including but not limited to interviews, articles, and social media. A meticulous compilation process sourced these insights from an array of outlets, ensuring accessibility and public domain status. The research methodology unfolds in three critical phases: Open coding, to fragment and earmark emergent phenomena; axial coding, to interlink and refine these insights; and selective coding, to underscore and validate central themes, thereby crystallizing a theory firmly rooted in empirical evidence. The results reveal a constellation of systemic challenges and artistic impediments. Central to these findings is the thematic recurrence of institutional control and censorship, mirrored in the creative restrictions reported by industry professionals. Moreover, the research uncovers a profound concern among stakeholders over the erosion of storytelling quality and diversity, leading to an increasing homogenization of cinematic content.