Behind the Film: A Rose for Iris

A Rose for Iris is a short drama about a chance encounter between two fathers and the lasting emotional scars it leaves on their children.

As an Iranian living in the UK, I saw anti-migrant sentiment rise when refugees crossed the English Channel. It made me curious about identity, guilt, and the stories we tell to justify our choices. I also wanted to understand what drives anti-immigration views, especially from a human perspective: parenthood. I wondered how the instinct to protect your child can sometimes do more harm than good, leaving emotional scars. Through the stories of two young girls from different backgrounds, I want to show how innocence can be lost due to adult prejudice and fear.

 Filming A Rose for Iris was challenging but rewarding, testing our resourcefulness. We shot over three intense days in Broadstairs, Kent, using practical locations to maintain authenticity. Budget constraints and the cold November tides made scheduling difficult, especially given short days and the limited hours of the child actors. We worked quickly, relying on each crew member’s efficiency. Special thanks to our DOP, Ciara Rigney, for keeping me on my toes without compromising the visual tone.

The main challenge was capturing quiet, emotional moments in the midst of a hectic, fast-paced set. With little time between intense scenes, we rehearsed beforehand so everyone was fully in character when filming. These constraints ultimately helped us strip things down and focus on what truly mattered: the performances.

Being a finalist at the Worcester Film Festival means a lot to A Rose for Iris. As an independent filmmaker, it’s inspiring to see our passion project resonate with audiences and industry insiders despite limited resources. This recognition boosts our team’s confidence and helps our film gain more visibility. I’m keen to share our work with the Worcester community and connect with other creators.

More updates, details, BTS, and screening dates on www.talooni.com/arfi