A journalist descends into the dark underbelly of the Iranian holy city of Mashhad as she investigates the serial killings of sex workers by the so called "Spider Killer", who believes he is cleansing the streets of sinners. A film that will chill you to the bone.
Language: Persian, subtitles: English
Holy Spider is inspired by the real case of Saeed Hanaei, a family man and father of three who murdered 16 prostitutes between 2000-2001 in Mashhad, Iran. This ‘Spider Killer’ would proudly inform the press and declare he had yet again done Allah’s work. In the film, a (fictitious) female journalist from Tehran tries to expose the killer and unravel a complot as she suspects the police are deliberately failing to do their task. The film will make you consider how religious beliefs, lack of empowerment and a violent past can create a monster; meanwhile, this gruesome crime thriller in an unusual setting filled with brave women will keep you on the edge of your seat.
This film is recommended by the film committee because it shows a very different perspective on recent events like the protests in Iran, and the stance on women there. It sketches the culture and problems of Iranian society in an extremely harsh and intriguing way, which really makes you think about it thoroughly.
Please note: The film contains some graphic and (sexually) violent scenes.
Awards
Zar Amir- Ebrahimi won the award for Best Actress at Cannes Film Festival. Ali Abbassi was nominated for a Palme d’Or. Overall, the film won 6 awards out of 18 nominations in several award contests.
Reviews
“Profoundly compelling, expertly made and quite intentionally horrifying”.
The Telegraph.
“Shines a harsh and unforgiving light on a patriarchal society that refuses to do the same.” Observer.
“A hero on a righteous moral crusade”.
Variety.
Ticket information
This film will be shown at Filmhuis De Zwarte Doos. Buying a ticket online in advance is mandatory if you want to attend this film. You can buy a ticket via the black “order” button on this page.
Please note: you can only buy a ticket online; tickets are not purchasable with cash or bank card at the ticket counter. A ticket is not refundable or exchangeable.
You can find more general information about tickets, refund policy, etc. here.
Please be on time
The screening of the film starts at 19:30 sharp (no commercials). We kindly ask you to be at the ticket counter when it opens 15 minutes prior to the start of the film. This is to ensure the film starts and ends on time.
The Studium Generale film program is created in collaboration with the student film committee and Natlab.