I’m Maxen Zand, a filmmaker and visual artist drawn to the edges of cinema, where narrative meets experimentation. Over the years, I’ve made several experimental films, each a journey into new territory, challenging myself and hopefully pushing the audience to see and feel differently. This path has led me to showcase my work in international arenas, most notably the Festival des Cinémas Différents et Expérimentaux de Paris, where I am now a proud member. This connection to such a respected festival has not only been a platform but a community, connecting me with artists who share my vision of breaking cinematic boundaries.

Beyond experimental work, I’ve found deep inspiration in art house cinema, particularly Italian and French films. There’s something incredibly powerful about the emotional intensity, the cultural richness, and the artistic daring of these films that keeps drawing me back. This kind of cinema speaks to me in a way that’s hard to define—it’s both my teacher and my muse, shaping how I approach storytelling, framing, and the subtleties of silence and sound.

When I’m not immersed in film, I turn to photography, capturing moments in stillness that I sometimes can’t express in motion. Photography has become more than a side passion; it’s a way of seeing the world, focusing on details of light, shadow, and texture. It’s an exercise in patience and observation that influences how I approach each new project.

My background in computer science gives me a foundation that feels unexpectedly aligned with filmmaking. There’s a discipline to it, a way of breaking down complex systems, which mirrors how I approach storytelling and visual structure. This duality between art and technology is something I’m constantly exploring.

A few years ago, I started a film circle in Tehran—a space for passionate filmmakers and artists to come together. It’s grown beyond what I imagined, bringing in directors like Krzysztof Zanussi and Denis Côté to join us for online discussions. These sessions have become something of a lifeline for me and the members of our group, offering a chance to explore ideas, dissect films, and exchange insights with artists who have mastered their craft.

Every project, every photo, every discussion I lead or participate in brings me closer to what I’m seeking in this art. It’s about the process of creating something that stays with people, that makes them pause, think, and feel in ways they didn’t expect. I don’t know exactly where this path will lead, but it’s one I’m committed to, in every sense.