Sayad

Sayad is a 2025 Iranian biographical drama directed by Javad Afshar and written by Hossein Torab Nejad. The film is based on the life of Lieutenant General Ali Sayad Shirazi, a prominent commander during the Iran–Iraq War. Set in the early 1980s, the story follows Shirazi’s military leadership in Kurdistan and his growing tension with then-President Abolhassan Banisadr, which ultimately leads to his removal from command and subsequent return to the front lines.

Portrayed by Ali Sarabi, Sayad Shirazi is depicted as a principled, strategic leader facing political intrigue and the chaos of war. The film also covers the planning and execution of Operation Beit ol-Moqaddas, which led to the liberation of Khorramshahr—one of the war’s pivotal victories. Supporting performances by Maral Baniadam, Nader Soleimani, Mohammadreza Hedayati, and Roz Razavi add emotional depth to the wartime narrative.

Premiering at the 2025 Fajr Film Festival, Sayad received generally favorable reviews. While the use of AI-generated voice to simulate Shirazi’s actual speech divided critics, many praised the film’s performances and historical detail. Sayad serves as a cinematic tribute to a revered military figure and explores themes of patriotism, leadership, and sacrifice under extreme conditions.