Madyar M. Shasha, also known as Mohsen M Shasha (his official name), was born on March 28, 1987, in Kurdistan, Iran. From an early age, he displayed a passion for storytelling, inspired by authors like Jules Verne and publications such as Kaihan Bacheha. His interest in technology and creativity deepened with the acquisition of his first computer at 14 and a mini VHS camera at 15, marking the start of his journey into filmmaking.
Initially pursuing Mathematics and Physics in high school, Madyar’s artistic inclinations prevailed. He excelled in Iran’s national university entrance exam, ranking 13th, and enrolled at Tehran University of Art. In 2012, he joined the MFA Film Production program at NYU Tisch but withdrew due to family obligations after his father’s sudden passing. His determination led him to complete the Filmmaking Diploma program at Prague Film School with support from the Ralph NJ Foundation.
Madyar’s co-produced short film, The Kites, received Special Recognition at Berlinale’s 70th edition in 2019. His recent works include Blockage (2021) and the upcoming The False, set for production in Europe in late 2024. Currently finalizing his MA thesis, titled The Absence of Poetic Cinema in the Age of Netflix Chaos, at the Art University of Linz, Austria, Madyar explores the intersection of poetic cinema and contemporary digital media.
Fluent in Kurdish, Persian, and English, with proficiency in German (B1) and familiarity with Arabic and Turkish, Madyar’s skills span directing, producing, writing, and film distribution. His work reflects a deep commitment to storytelling and poetic cinema.