Trigger

Pazhoohan Parastar has been writing stories in various formats since adolescence and wrote his first screenplay at the age of fifteen. He pursued a degree in Architectural Engineering at university, while also studying Screenwriting and Directing.

Parastar has contributed as a writer and performance director in several films and theatrical productions. In 2016, he became an official member of the Iranian House of Cinema. His collaboration with Danial Ghelichpour, which began in the early stages of his filmmaking journey, led to the founding of ZHONAR Studio.

To date, ZHONAR Studio has produced more than fifty artistic and commercial short films, many of which have been recognized at international film festivals.

Some of Parastar's notable achievements include:

SCAR (2020) - Official Selection, Grace International Film Festival

TRIGGER (2021) - Semi-Finalist, Asian Cinematography Awards (ACA)

SCAR (2021) - Semi-Finalist, Asian Cinematography Awards (ACA)

THE EARTH from the HANDS series (2023) - Official Selection, WHO Film Festival

Parastar's short films are often dialogue-free, using a minimalist style and based on the idea that "the whole world speaks one language: silence." This method aims to go beyond cultural and language boundaries and connect with a global audience.

Parastar focuses on delivering meaning in the shortest possible time, showing respect for the viewer's time and attention. The short film series Dastan (translated as The Hands) was written and produced during the COVID-19 pandemic and follows this same approach.

The purpose of the series is to explore ethical and social issues through visual metaphors and symbolic imagery. In most of his works, Parastar chooses not to present clear answers or formulas. Instead, he shares his personal thoughts and mental struggles with the audience, hoping to create a space for collective reflection. His screenplays and stories often take place in surreal and minimalist worlds, free from the usual rules of reality.