British-Iranian writer Juliette Towhidi, known for her acclaimed works like “Calendar Girls” and “Testament of Youth,” has been officially connected to a new film project focusing on Farah Pahlavi, the last Empress of Iran and wife to the late Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi.

Production Details

The project is a collaborative effort involving the producers of “Women of the Movement,” namely Serendipity Group, John Powers Middleton, and others. Initial production began in Washington, D.C., and is set to continue through the end of 2024. Emily Atef has been appointed as the director.

Story Focus

The film promises to delve into the extraordinary life of Shahbanou Farah Pahlavi, emphasizing her resilience amid a 45-year exile marked by personal tragedy, including the loss of her husband and two children. Notably, she has remained steadfast to her Iranian heritage, never remarrying and holding onto her identity as a sovereign deeply connected to her homeland.

“The Empress’ life has been extraordinary. Rarely has the destiny of one woman so closely mirrored that of her nation and our turbulent times,” said Towhidi.

Behind the Scenes

Towhidi reflected on the profound nature of Farah Pahlavi’s experiences, sharing insights about her rise in a politically volatile context, enriched by her encounters with both glory and adversity. She emphasized the significance of this project, stating, “It’s a true privilege to have this opportunity to tell her story, to explore my own roots, and to work alongside a director as talented and inspiring as Emily Atef.”

Juliette Towhidi’s Background

Juliette Towhidi has established a reputable career not only in film writing but also in television, with credits including the BBC adaptation of “Death Comes to Pemberley.” She is currently adapting two novels for screen—Nina de Gramont’s “The Christie Affair” and Lauren B. Davis’s “The First Time Lauren Died” for notable producers.

Her writing exudes emotional depth, characterized by wit and authenticity, drawing on her extensive background in journalism from her early career at Reuters. This diverse experience has shaped her exploration of themes related to love, loss, and the resilience of women in her stories.

Production Team

The film’s production is led by Rosanna Grace and Nicole Tabs for Serendipity Group Inc., in collaboration with Elisabeth Davis for Middleton Media, David Clark for Mazo Partners, and Sam Moazami for Moazami Pictures.