Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of Septembers of Shiraz (2016). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
As Isaac Amin navigates the perilous terrain of post-revolutionary Tehran, his life takes a dramatic turn when he is suddenly arrested at his office and taken to prison. This dire predicament thrusts him into a chaotic world alongside an eclectic group of inmates, each bearing their unique tales of hardship and injustice.
Within the grim confines of his cell, Isaac experiences the harrowing brutality of his interrogator, Mohsen, who is determined to extract confessions through severe physical duress. The stark contrast between Isaac’s former affluent lifestyle as a gemologist and his current desolate state is painfully apparent.
In a chilling twist, Isaac faces the terrifying prospect of execution, paraded before a firing squad. Yet, this life-threatening moment sparks an unprecedented negotiation; he offers to relinquish his entire fortune for his freedom. Remarkably, Mohsen finds Isaac’s desperation intriguing and agrees to release him, leaving Isaac to confront the shattered remnants of his previous life amidst the ruins of his office.
As Isaac surveys the rubble, he uncovers a hidden stash of diamonds cleverly concealed behind a brick in the wall, providing a flicker of hope in an otherwise grim existence. His moment of solace is interrupted by the arrival of Morteza, a former employee who has been surreptitiously plundering Isaac’s supplies. Morteza carries with him a disturbing revelation: a letter from Shahbanu Farah Pahlavi, praising Isaac, which he intends to use for blackmail.
Unperturbed by Morteza’s threat, Isaac, emboldened by his newfound resolve as a revolutionary contributor, confronts him, warning that he can easily expose Morteza’s thievery with just one phone call. Faced with Isaac’s steadfastness, Morteza retreats into the shadows. With his freedom restored and the diamonds secured, Isaac turns to a human smuggler, parting with a hefty sum to facilitate his escape from Iran.
Meanwhile, Morteza’s fate takes a tragic turn as he is apprehended by the Revolutionary Guards for his earlier crimes. As the Amin family prepares for their daunting escape, they navigate treacherous routes, first in a luxury Mercedes before switching to an aging pickup truck for the final stretch.
As darkness envelops the landscape, Isaac and his family embark on a treacherous journey through the whispering shadows of the forest, striving for the distant border. Their clandestine venture is abruptly interrupted by vigilant guards alerted by the cunning Morteza. Tension escalates as Mohsen’s voice crackles over the comms, giving orders that facilitate the Amin family’s passage into Turkish territory.
Crossing the perilous border at last, they leave behind the chaos of their former lives. As they ride towards the unknown, Isaac reflects on a cryptic letter, its meaning lost forever to the flames that consume it. The night gives way to the golden light of dawn, heralding a new chapter for them in Turkey, like an unbound book waiting to be written.
Timeline
Track the key events of Septembers of Shiraz (2016) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Arrest in Office
Isaac Amin's life takes a drastic turn when he is abruptly arrested at his office in post-revolutionary Tehran. This unexpected event catapults him into a relentless struggle for survival within the unjust prison system.
Life in Prison
In prison, Isaac encounters a diverse group of inmates, each with their own stories of suffering and resilience. He also endures the harsh brutality of his interrogator, who seeks to extract confessions through unbearable torment.
Facing Execution
Isaac is confronted with the terrifying reality of execution as he is paraded before a firing squad. In this moment of desperation, he bravely offers to give up his entire fortune for his life, igniting a negotiation that could secure his freedom.
A Deal for Freedom
Mohsen, intrigued by Isaac's desperation, accepts the offer and agrees to release him. This unexpected reprieve forces Isaac to come to terms with the devastation of his previous affluent lifestyle, amidst the ruins of his office.
Discovery of Diamonds
After regaining his freedom, Isaac returns to the wreckage of his office and discovers a hidden stash of diamonds. This moment offers him a glimmer of hope in his otherwise bleak situation, suggesting a possible path forward.
Morteza's Blackmail
Isaac is confronted by Morteza, a former employee, who arrives with the intent to blackmail Isaac using a letter from Shahbanu Farah Pahlavi. This confrontation tests Isaac's resolve and determination to reclaim his life.
Confronting Morteza
Unfazed by Morteza's threats, Isaac asserts his power in the situation, warning that he could easily reveal Morteza's acts of theft. This confrontation leads Morteza to consider retreating, aware of the potential consequences of challenging Isaac.
Planning Escape
With his freedom regained and diamonds secured, Isaac seeks the help of a human smuggler, investing a large sum to facilitate his escape from Iran. This decision marks a pivotal move as Isaac prepares to leave behind his past.
Morteza's Arrest
Morteza's own fate takes a tragic turn when he is captured by the Revolutionary Guards due to his previous actions. This twist highlights the perilous nature of life in Tehran post-revolution.
The Journey Begins
As the Amin family prepares for their risky escape, they begin their journey in a luxury Mercedes before transferring to an aging pickup truck for the challenging final stretch. Their travel underscores the precarious nature of their situation.
Navigating the Wilderness
Under the cover of darkness, Isaac and his family traverse a forest aiming for the distant border. Their clandestine journey is tense, marked by the ever-present threat of discovery from vigilant guards.
Intervention by Guards
Their journey takes a dangerous turn when the guards are alerted to their presence, complicating their escape. Mohsen's orders crackle through the comms system, creating an anxious atmosphere as the family approaches the border.
Crossing the Border
Finally, the Amin family manages to cross over to Turkish territory, leaving behind the chaos they've endured. This crossing represents not just a physical journey but also a metaphorical escape from their past.
Reflecting on the Past
As they ride towards an uncertain future in Turkey, Isaac reflects on a cryptic letter, its significance lost to flames. This moment serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and losses that have shaped their journey.
A New Beginning
With the dawn breaking on the horizon, Isaac and his family look ahead to their new life in Turkey. The golden light symbolizes hope and fresh possibilities, as they prepare to write a new chapter free from the shadows of their past.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring Septembers of Shiraz (2016) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Isaac Amin
Isaac is a gemologist who finds himself thrust into a world of turmoil and brutality following his arrest in Tehran. He evolves from a life of luxury to one filled with despair and resilience, showcasing his inner strength and determination. His character arc illustrates his transformation and the transformative power of hope amid adversity.
Morteza
Morteza is a former employee of Isaac, whose actions exemplify the moral complexities faced by individuals in times of oppression. Initially portrayed as a threat through blackmail, he reveals the struggles for survival that characters endure in a harsh reality. His fate serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of choices made under pressure.
Mohsen
Mohsen, as Isaac's interrogator, represents the harsh reality of oppression faced by many. His relentless pursuit of confession through brutality encapsulates the terrifying nature of authoritarian regimes. Despite his menacing demeanor, he becomes a pivotal figure in Isaac's journey toward potential freedom.
Setting
Uncover the settings of Septembers of Shiraz (2016), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
Post-Revolutionary Era
The film takes place in the aftermath of the Iranian Revolution, a time characterized by significant social and political upheaval. Many citizens faced persecution, and personal freedoms were drastically curtailed. The atmosphere of fear and uncertainty loomed large, influencing the choices and challenges faced by the characters.
Location
Tehran, Turkey
The movie is primarily set in post-revolutionary Tehran, a city marked by political turmoil and the struggles of its citizens. Tehran, known for its rich history and cultural significance, transforms into a symbol of chaos and oppression during this time. The latter part of the journey leads the characters towards Turkey, a country representing hope and safety as they seek refuge from their troubled past.
Themes
Explore the core themes of Septembers of Shiraz (2016). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
🕊️
Freedom
The theme of freedom is central to the narrative, explored through Isaac's desperate attempts to escape oppressive regimes. His journey symbolizes the universal quest for liberty and dignity amid oppressive circumstances. The struggle for personal and familial freedom serves as a poignant reminder of the lengths individuals will go to reclaim their lives.
💔
Loss
Loss permeates the story as Isaac grapples with the devastation of his former life and the uncertainties that lie ahead. The emotional and material losses highlight the harsh realities faced by those caught in the crossfire of political unrest. This theme underscores the sacrifices made in the pursuit of survival and a better future.
⚖️
Justice
The theme of justice is intricately woven into the narrative as characters seek to confront their oppressors and rectify the wrongs of their past. Isaac's struggle against tyranny showcases the desire for accountability and fairness. The quest for justice encapsulates the broader human experience of longing for a world where wrongs are righted.
Featured on this page
What's After the Movie?
Not sure whether to stay after the credits? Find out!
Check out our other apps:
Actors
Companies
Latest Movies
© 2025 What's After the Movie?. All rights reserved.