Iran bans “Western style” premiere of films

TEHRAN,Nov. 21 (MNA) -- Iran has banned “Western style” red carpet ceremonies that used to be arranged for film premieres across the capital Tehran. Iran`s Culture Ministry Supervision and Evaluation Office (SEO) Director Alireza Sajjadpur said that his office banned the ceremony “since it is inconsistent with Persian culture and that it is a pale imitation of Western culture.” “We agree with any kind of advertisement leading to a boost in box office receipts,” he told on Sunday. “But the red carpet ceremonies were only an imitation of the programs that the Western countries always arrange for their film premiers,” he added. At the film premieres in Tehran, black limousines used to transfer the cast and other members of film crew to the premiere event. A red carpet was rolled out at the entrance of the venue, and the cast and film crew members were escorted by bodyguards wearing black suits and ties. “The limousine and bodyguards used for the cast and crew members who were dressed up like models in fashion shows were never approved by the office,” Sajjadpur said. He went on to say, “Of course this does not mean that we totally disagree with any ceremony for premiere of films, but we disagree with any types of ceremonies which contradict our own culture and is an imitation of the West.” Sajjadpur asked the filmmakers to provide his office with details of their premiere programs, which are approved by the office to get the permission license.