Berlin international film festival iranian film about executions wins top prize

You're referring to the Berlin International Film Festival, also known as the Berlinale!

Yes, you're correct. The 72nd Berlin International Film Festival, which took place from February 10 to 20, 2022, awarded the top prize, the Golden Bear, to an Iranian film that tackles a very sensitive and important topic: executions.

The film is called "Holy Spider" (Khorshid in Persian), directed by Ali Abbasi, and it's a drama that explores the theme of serial killings in Iran. The film is based on a true story and follows a journalist who becomes obsessed with the case of a serial killer who targets prostitutes in the holy city of Mashhad.

The film's title, "Holy Spider", refers to the fact that the killer targets women who work in the sex trade, which is considered a taboo subject in Iran. The film is a powerful critique of the country's strict laws and social norms, and it's been praised for its bold and unflinching portrayal of the issue.

The Golden Bear award is one of the most prestigious prizes in the film industry, and it's a significant recognition of the film's impact and importance. The award was accepted by the film's director, Ali Abbasi, and its lead actress, Zar Amir Ebrahimi, who is also Iranian.

It's worth noting that the film's win has sparked controversy in Iran, with some officials and hardline clerics criticizing the film for its portrayal of the country's laws and social norms. However, the film's win has also been widely celebrated by many in the Iranian film industry and by human rights activists around the world.