Directed and written by Navid Mahmoudi, and produced by Jamshid Mahmoudi, “The Last Birthday” (originally titled “Kabul Plate 10” and also known as “The Fall of Kabul”) is a profound cinematic exploration set against the backdrop of the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. This Iranian production, released in 2021 and entering cinemas in 2022, captures the onset of Taliban control in Kabul—a city submerged in anxiety and fear.

The narrative centers on Mohammad, a father striving to maintain normalcy for his family amid the escalating chaos. The film deftly portrays the life of several youths, including Soraya and Fahim, whose dreams are overshadowed by the grim realities of war. As Kabul braces for the impending crisis, Soraya, a journalist, plans a small gathering to celebrate what could be their last moments of peace. The story unfolds in her home, offering a unique single-location setting that intensifies the emotional depth and confines of the narrative.

Starring Elaheh Shakerdoost, Pedram Sharifi, Shida Khaligh, Armin Rahimian, Sogol Khaligh, Niloufar Koohani, and Reza Behboudi, “The Last Birthday” is a compelling drama that weaves a tapestry of personal and collective anxieties. The film, rich in dialogues, shifts from a celebratory atmosphere to a tragic climax as the characters face the harsh reality of Taliban attacks, capturing the forced displacements and shattered dreams of its characters.

This film stands out in its theatrical style, drawing viewers into the intimacy and urgency of the unfolding events, largely communicated through television reports and social media within the confines of Soraya’s home. Despite its contained setting, the dialogue-heavy script conveys a broader commentary on international politics and the acute local impacts of global neglect.

“The Last Birthday” is not just a film; it’s a political statement and a cultural echo of the pain that the Afghan people endure. It is available for FREE streaming exclusively on FarsiMov, inviting audiences worldwide to witness the resilience and tribulations of its characters. This offering is part of FarsiMov’s commitment to bringing poignant and culturally significant narratives from Iranian cinema to a global audience.