Filmmakers of ‘Cutting Through Rocks’ Share Insights on U.S. Travel Ban and Their Commitment to Supporting Iranians

The documentary filmmakers behind Iran’s Oscar-nominated Cutting Through Rocks have expressed the importance of supporting the Iranian people amidst ongoing protests and geopolitical tensions. Their moment of celebration is overshadowed by the absence of protagonist Sara Shahverdi, who was unable to attend the event due to a travel ban.

Co-director Sara Khaki remarked, “We are here to stand by the rights of our people because we are proud of their knowledge and their wisdom and their tenacity and their perseverance — as we see in Cutting Through Rocks in our lead character, who, by the way, was not able to join us for the Oscars because of the travel ban and the recent events in Iran.”

In a December 2025 proclamation, the White House implemented a travel ban that fully restricts entry for citizens of 12 countries, including Iran. This ban has also influenced the attendance of individuals from other nations; Palestinian actor Motaz Malhees, who stars in the Best International Feature Film-nominated Tunisian entry The Voice of Hind Rajab, was similarly unable to attend.

Amid these challenges, Iranian authorities imposed an internet blackout early this year in an effort to suppress nationwide demonstrations against the government, which have amplified in the context of a worsening economic crisis. This action has drawn condemnation for its violation of human rights.

Filmmaker Eyni noted, “Because of the internet shutdown we can’t share with her any photos, any videos — and also with our people in Iran. We wanted to celebrate this moment with them because this is the first Iranian documentary feature to be nominated, an Iranian story from Iran and we spent eight years making this film, and we lost the chance of celebrating with our people. And I’m sure so many Iranians are behind the mission of the film that is about change; it’s about fighting for equalities, it’s about justice.”

Khaki further emphasized, “Our hearts are with the people of Iran right now and we are standing by them and representing them today.”

Cutting Through Rocks, which premiered at Sundance last year, chronicles Shahverdi’s election as the first councilwoman of her village. The film showcases her efforts to challenge patriarchal norms by teaching girls to ride motorcycles and combat child marriages.