If you were captivated by the moral complexities and emotional depth of 'A Hero' (2021), you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows. This article explores films and series that share themes of redemption, societal pressures, and human resilience, offering a rich viewing experience for fans of Asghar Farhadi's masterpiece.

The Child (2005)
Description: A stark and realistic portrayal of poverty and moral choices, following a young couple struggling to survive. The film's raw and unflinching style highlights the harsh realities of life.
Fact: Won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. The lead actor, Jérémie Renier, was only 13 when he starred in the director's earlier film 'La Promesse.'


Fireworks Wednesday (2006)
Description: A domestic drama that captures the simmering tensions beneath the surface of everyday life. The film uses a single day's events to reveal deeper truths about its characters.
Fact: The film's title refers to the Iranian festival of Chaharshanbe Suri, which involves fireworks and is central to the plot. It was shot in just 13 days.


The Class (2008)
Description: A realistic and immersive look at the challenges of education and cultural integration in a diverse classroom. The film's naturalistic style and ensemble cast create a vivid, authentic experience.
Fact: Won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. The film is based on the director's own experiences as a teacher and features non-professional actors.


A Separation (2011)
Description: A deeply human story that examines the complexities of relationships, ethics, and the legal system. The narrative unfolds through a series of tense and emotionally charged confrontations.
Fact: First Iranian film to win the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. The script was developed through extensive improvisation and workshops with the actors.


The Past (2013)
Description: A poignant exploration of unresolved conflicts and emotional baggage, centered around a fractured family. The film's slow-burning tension and intricate character dynamics make it compelling.
Fact: Was nominated for the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. The lead actress, Bérénice Bejo, won the Best Actress award at Cannes for her role.


Mustang (2015)
Description: A powerful coming-of-age story about five sisters rebelling against societal constraints. The film's intimate portrayal of sisterhood and defiance is both tender and fierce.
Fact: Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. The director, Deniz Gamze Ergüven, drew inspiration from her own childhood experiences.


The Promise (2016)
Description: A historical drama that intertwines personal and political struggles, set against a backdrop of societal upheaval. The film's emotional depth and moral quandaries resonate strongly.
Fact: The film was crowd-funded, with over 83,000 contributors making it one of the largest independent film projects. It depicts the Armenian Genocide, a rarely covered subject in cinema.


The Salesman (2016)
Description: A gripping drama that explores moral dilemmas and societal pressures, focusing on a couple whose lives unravel after a traumatic incident. The film delves into themes of justice, revenge, and personal integrity.
Fact: Won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in


The Insult (2017)
Description: A tense courtroom drama that escalates from a minor dispute into a national controversy. The film examines themes of pride, forgiveness, and the lingering scars of history.
Fact: Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. The story was inspired by a real-life incident involving the director's friend.


Capernaum (2018)
Description: A heart-wrenching tale of survival and resilience, focusing on a child navigating a world of neglect and injustice. The film's documentary-like realism amplifies its emotional impact.
Fact: Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. The young lead actor, Zain Al Rafeea, was a Syrian refugee who had never acted before.
