TEHRAN — Iran’s cinematic ambitions took a hit after a brief but disruptive 12-day aggression forced theater closures, delaying the country’s bold goal of hitting a 3 trillion rial ($71 million) box office milestone in the Persian year 1404 (2025-2026). 
But signs of revival are emerging, as a surprising 12,000-strong audience turnout in a single day—amidst ongoing restrictions and a comedy drought—points to a reawakening appetite for the big screen.
According to IRNA, the outbreak of war threw a wrench in what had looked like a promising summer season for Iranian cinemas. Now that the dust has settled, theaters are welcoming audiences back, and with a refreshed slate of titles, box office momentum is inching upward.
Starting Wednesday, Iranian cinephiles can catch two fresh releases: There at That Hour (dir. Sirous Alvand) and Zafaraniyeh July 5 (dir. Seyed Ali Hashemi). Meanwhile, steady performers like The Sound and Old Boy continue to hold court, proving the resilience of local fare.
Before the war erupted, industry insiders were optimistic that spring’s strong ticket sales would propel the market toward that ambitious 3 trillion rial target. The war-induced cinema shutdowns temporarily stalled that trajectory, but recovery is underway.
Monday’s turnout of 12,000 moviegoers was especially notable—given it was the sole operating day during the somber Ashura and Tasua period, and that the comedy genre, a traditional box office booster, was absent.
Looking ahead, the industry pins hopes on a robust post-war lineup to revitalize summer box office receipts. Though Woman and Child was slated for release Wednesday, its premiere has been pushed back. Meanwhile, The Man with Glasses is scheduled for August 1, joining forces with Old Boy and a handful of comedies to round out a more dynamic summer slate.
This burgeoning comedy wave features Bahram Afshari, who returns following his hit Seventy, and Saeed Roustaee’s much-anticipated project starring Peyman Maadi and Parinaz Izadyar, which promises to bring star power and buzz.
Industry watchers say this collection of releases could make up for earlier summer losses and help stabilize Iran’s cinema economy. The crucial box office window extends through late August’s Safar month, with fresh film packages expected in September—traditionally a lucrative period that sets the tone for fall.
As Iranian cinema gears up for this pivotal phase, all eyes will be on audience response and whether the box office can fully rebound after this turbulent chapter.