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Hemela film image; woman in a kitchen sorting through a box of herbs

Hemela

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World Premiere

Hemela left Iran as a young adult to build a new life in Montreal. Now an older woman, her story unfolds not through sweeping politics but the small moments that define a life — family gatherings, the aroma of shared meals, and laughter with friends. Beloved for her cuisine, humour, and radiant presence, Hemela embodies the strength of migration and the ability to adapt while carrying forward traditions that connect past and present.

Pirouz Nemati’s documentary invites viewers into this intimate world, celebrating the extraordinary within the everyday. With sensitivity, grace and an appearance by Denis Villeneuve, the film reminds us that stories of resilience are often found in kitchens, living rooms, and community tables — places where joy, wisdom, and memory come together. Hemela is both personal and universal, offering a heartfelt tribute to a life lived fully.

Hemela will be preceded by the short film, Solitudes by Ryan McKenna.
About the short film: Upon befriending Jocelyn at their French language class, Behrouz catsits for her while she goes on a trip to find her ancestor’s unmarked grave.

 

Oct 5: Q&A

 

Presented by

Telefilm logo

Media Partner

Global BC logo    CKNW logo

Community Partner

     

Director
Featuring

Hemela Pourafzal

Credits
Country of Origin

Canada/Iran

Year

2025

Language

In French and Persian with English subtitles

18+
72 min
Art, Music & Photography Cinemas of Asia Documentary

Book Tickets

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Credits & Director

Producer

Pirouz Nemati

Screenwriter

Pirouz Nemati

Cinematography

Ariane Lorrain

Editor

Pirouz Nemati

Pirouz Nemati headshot

Pirouz Nemati

Born in Iran in 1987, Pirouz Nemati is an independent filmmaker, artist, and actor currently based in Montreal. He studied photography, film, and media arts at Emily Carr University and holds a BFA in film production from Concordia University. Nemati’s films, video, and photography work have been showcased in Iran, Canada, and the US. Most recently, he served as an executive producer, co-screenwriter, and actor in Matthew Rankin’s award winning film Universal Language (2024).

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