The Cinematheque

“Madness, love, and hope are interwoven in this film, which alternates between anthropological observation and diary, to give us a heartbreaking account of personal relationships.”

Elena López Riera, Visions du Réel 2020

This award-winning documentary explores the intersection of love, mental health, and the right to companionship. Directed by Atieh Attarzadeh and Hesam Eslami, The Marriage Project offers a close look into the world of individuals dealing with mental health challenges while pursuing one of the most universal human experiences—love. The film explores the controversial efforts of the director and staff of the Ehsan House care facility in Tehran, as they navigate a complex question: can individuals with mental health conditions find happiness and stability through marriage? The challenging ethical dilemmas of such experiments raise questions about consent and happiness in general. The filmmakers capture intimate moments of connection, revealing the profound impact of both environment and personal history. Through their lens, we experience isolation and intimacy, prompting us to reflect on our perceptions of love, relationships, and societal limitations.

Post-screening audience discussion moderated by PELAN.

“Fascinating and stunning … In [The Marriage Project], the patients clearly deserve the right to have love in their life, the question is who should govern what form that love takes.”

Courtney Small, POV Magazine