Watch Alone Through Iran

The documentary film Alone Through Iran follows Australian filmmaker Mark Shea as he sets off on a journey to explore the rich history and culture of Iran, one of the oldest civilizations in the world. Shea embarks on this adventure alone, with nothing but his backpack and camera equipment, and his goal is to trek over 2,000 kilometers from the Turkish border to the Pakistani frontier, capturing the stunning landscapes and the stories of the people he meets along the way.

The film begins with Shea's arrival in Tehran, the bustling capital of Iran, where he is greeted by locals who are warm and welcoming despite the country's negative portrayal in the international media. From there, he boards a bus to the city of Tabriz, located in the northwest of the country, and begins his journey on foot. One of his first stops is the Kandovan village, where he visits the troglodyte-style homes carved into the rock and speaks with the villagers who have preserved this unique lifestyle for centuries.

As he continues his journey, Shea meets a diverse range of people, from farmers and nomads to artists and religious leaders, each with their own captivating stories to share. Along the way, he experiences the hospitality and generosity of the Iranian people, who offer him food, shelter, and friendship. He also encounters some of the challenges facing the country, such as economic struggles, social and political tensions, and the impact of climate change on the rural areas.

Throughout the film, Shea captures the stunning natural landscapes that make up Iran, including mountains, deserts, forests, and coastlines, each with its own beauty and character. He takes the audience on a journey through the diverse cultures and traditions of the country, from the vibrant bazaars and mosques to the ancient ruins of Persepolis and the Zoroastrian Fire Temples.

What sets Alone Through Iran apart from other travel documentaries is the filmmaker's approach to the subject matter. Shea doesn't just offer a surface-level view of the country but delves deeper into the rich history and culture of Iran, highlighting the diversity of the people and the challenges facing the country. He also offers a personal perspective, sharing his own thoughts and feelings as he journeys through the country alone, giving the audience a real sense of what it's like to travel in Iran.

In addition to its stunning visuals and insightful storytelling, the film also offers a unique perspective on Iran from an outsider's point of view. At a time when the country is often portrayed negatively in the Western media, Alone Through Iran offers a fresh and positive perspective on this ancient nation, shedding light on its hidden treasures and the warmth and hospitality of its people.

Overall, Alone Through Iran is a captivating and thought-provoking documentary that takes the audience on an unforgettable journey through one of the world's most fascinating and misunderstood countries. The film offers stunning visuals, insightful storytelling, and a unique perspective on Iran that will inspire viewers to look beyond the headlines and explore the rich culture and history of this ancient land for themselves.

Alone Through Iran is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 59 minutes.