TEHRAN -- Asghar Farhadi’s family drama “Nader and Simin: A Separation” and Masud Kimiaii’s “Crime” together led the nominations for the Crystal Simorgh at the 29th Fajr International Film Festival each with twelve nods.

“Nader and Simin: A Separation” has been nominated in different categories for best director, best screenplay, best actress, best film, best editing and seven other categories.
The film starring Leila Hatami and Shahab Hosseini, “Nader and Simin: A Separation” tells the story of a couple who are getting a divorce, but the tutorship of their child is causing a dilemma.
In a poll instituted by the organizers of the festival, “Nader and Simin” is also expected to win the Audience Favorite Film award.
The story “Crime”, which is in black and white form, sets Iran of decades ago. It tells the story of man, who is trying to remain faithful to his beliefs in a dilemma.
“Crime” scored nominations for best director, best film, best actor, best screenplay, best editing and seven others categories.
Organizers of the 29th Fajr International Film Festival honored Kimiaii with a lifetime achievement award during the opening ceremony of the event last week.
A jury comprising of Jahangir Almasi, Majid Entezami, Abolqasem Talebi, Jaber Qasemali, Ali Moa’llem and Hassan Abbasi has completed the selection of nominations for the event.
The festival will wrap up on Wednesday evening at Tehran’s Milad Tower.
Photo: Leila Hatami acts in a scene from “Nader and Simin: A Separation”, which was screened in the national competition section of the 29th Fajr International Film Festival. She has been nominated for the festival’s Best Actress Crystal Simorgh for her role in the film. (Photo by Habib Majidi)