Hesam Farahmand’s debut feature, “My Daughter’s Hair,” perfectly aligns with the rich tradition of Iranian cinema—starting with a minor everyday issue and layering an overwhelming pressure on its characters. The film celebrated its UK premiere at the Raindance Film Festival 2026.
A High-Suspense Narrative from an Everyday Crisis
This time, the central element is a stolen laptop. A young woman must replace it to keep her job, but her low-income family cannot afford it. From this daily struggle, Farahmand crafts a narrative that grows tighter and more tense by the minute, gripping the audience on screen like a tight vice.
Clever Direction and Masterful Suspense
What sets Farahmand’s direction apart is his ability to transform an ordinary crisis into a breathtaking, suspenseful journey. The script naturally shifts directions through clever twists, proving that keeping the audience deeply engaged does not require massive budgets or expensive sets.
Distinct Realism and Visual Palette
Unlike many contemporary dramas, the film does not descend into total darkness like “I, Daniel Blake.” The visual palette is slightly brighter, utilizing elements like the blue walls of the rooms and the striking contrast of Tohid’s blood. Free of a musical score, it maintains a profoundly realistic look at a family’s mutual sacrifices.
Powerful Performances and Shahab Hosseini’s Brilliance
The stellar acting gives the emotional drama a strong sense of authenticity. Shahab Hosseini delivers a masterful performance as the patriarch, “Tohaid.” Carrying the family’s immense burdens with dignity and a touching stillness, he portrays a Ken Loach-style hero—a well-meaning man whose every effort sinks him deeper into a swamp of hardships.
Overall, “My Daughter’s Hair” beautifully blends the empathetic humanism of Iranian cinema with an unpredictable, twist-filled narrative. Hesam Farahmand has created a tense, beautiful, and deeply moving film that completely justifies the festival ticket.
*This review is based on the press screening at the Raindance Film Festival 2026.
