This Is Not a Film (2011): cast, story & where to watch
2011 · Film · ★ 7.2
Released in 2011, This Is Not a Film is a documentary film directed by Jafar Panahi, running about 75 minutes. “If we could tell a film, then why make a film?” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. Renowned Iranian director Jafar Panahi received a 6-year prison sentence and a 20-year ban from filmmaking and conducting interviews with foreign press due to his open support for the opposition party in Iran's 2009 election. In this film, which was shot secretly by Panahi's close friend Mojtaba Mirtahmasb and smuggled into France on a USB stick concealed inside a cake for a last-minute submission to Cannes, Panahi documents his daily life under house arrest as he awaits a decision on his appeal.
Who’s in it. This Is Not a Film stars Jafar Panahi as Himself, Igi as Pet lizard, Mrs. Gheirat as Herself (voice) and Mojtaba Mirtahmasb as Himself, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 7.2/10, This Is Not a Film has been warmly received by audiences.
Where to watch. In US you can stream it on Kanopy. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch This Is Not a Film page.
If you liked it. Fans of This Is Not a Film tend to enjoy One Direction: This Is Us, Burn the Stage: The Movie, BTS World Tour: Love Yourself - Japan Edition and Senna.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch This Is Not a Film (2011)?
- In US, This Is Not a Film is available to stream on Kanopy. Availability varies by country — check our where-to-watch page for every region.
- Is This Is Not a Film worth watching?
- This Is Not a Film holds an audience score of 7.2 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy documentary. Most viewers rate it highly.
- Who stars in This Is Not a Film?
- This Is Not a Film stars Jafar Panahi, Igi, Mrs. Gheirat, Mojtaba Mirtahmasb and Rakhsan.
- When was This Is Not a Film released?
- This Is Not a Film was released in 2011, with a runtime of about 75 minutes.