TEHRAN -- Iranian animated feature The Battle of Kites is drawing on the visual language of video games and science-fiction cinema to create a distinctive world rooted in Iranian cultural identity. 
Art director Mehran Khorsandi says the creative team sought to combine futuristic environments, action-driven storytelling and recognizably Iranian characters in a film designed primarily for teenage audiences.
In an interview with IRNA, Khorsandi explained that the project underwent a significant creative shift during development. Initially conceived for children, the film was subsequently repositioned towards teenagers, prompting the team to reconsider its visual approach.
With relatively few Iranian animated productions targeting this age group through similar aesthetics, the filmmakers moved away from highly stylized designs towards a semi-realistic visual language. The objective was to create a world that felt convincing without becoming entirely photorealistic.
The story takes place on an island in southern Iran in a future several decades ahead. This premise required extensive visual development, including research into how the island’s architecture, infrastructure and surrounding environment might evolve over the coming decades.
Khorsandi worked closely with concept artists during pre-production, reviewing and refining designs to establish a consistent visual language across characters and environments. Maintaining harmony between the two was a central consideration.
Video games also played an 
important role in shaping the film’s aesthetic. According to Khorsandi, the team studied contemporary animation, international films and gaming environments to understand the visual expectations of younger audiences.
The production incorporated dynamic movement, fast-paced action and futuristic concept art to maintain narrative momentum. Khorsandi said the intention was to avoid slowing the story down, recognizing teenage viewers’ familiarity with visually energetic games and adventure animation.
However, the filmmakers were equally concerned with preserving the project’s Iranian identity. Character designs were informed by regional and ethnic characteristics, including facial features, clothing and color choices. Research also influenced the selection of voice actors.
The same approach extended to the environments. Although the film’s buildings and technology belong to an imagined future, elements of traditional Iranian architecture remain visible throughout the island. Modern equipment and futuristic interiors coexist with recognizable local architectural details.
Color design was another important component of the production. The team developed several color scripts and color keys to establish the emotional atmosphere of individual sequences. 
Green and blue tones, occasionally complemented by red, were used for suspenseful scenes, while warmer palettes characterized the island and melodramatic moments. Futuristic equipment and digital displays incorporated shades of white, turquoise and blue, with red reserved for warnings and emergencies.
Khorsandi also described the technical difficulties encountered during production, which continued through two wars. Differences between artistic ambitions and technical limitations required repeated discussions between the art and production teams. Finding practical solutions without compromising the film’s visual identity became an important part of the process.
Despite these challenges, he believes the finished animation represents a relatively uncommon visual direction in Iranian filmmaking. Audience reactions, particularly among teenagers and young adults, have reportedly been encouraging.
Produced by Soureh Animation Centre, The Battle of Kites is directed and produced by Elham Ebrahimi, with a screenplay by Amir Reza Mafi. Ifa Tasvir Arya Cultural and Artistic Institute serves as the executive production company, while Bahman Sabz is handling the film’s theatrical distribution across Iran.