Harsh Land and Distant Sky

Harun, a Kurdish freedom fighter, is haunted by the memories of war that have left him with post-traumatic stress, and burdened by a profound guilt. In an effort to seek solace, his friend takes him to see a group of Yarsan musicians (an ancient Kurdish religious group), who believe that their sacred Tanbur music can soothe the soul and cure illness. When the music cannot alleviate the burden of war from Harun’s heart, he is guided to Maryam, a traditional Kurdish tattooist who lives in a remote village located in the Triangle of Borders region, where Iran, Iraq, and Turkey cross. When Harun eventually opens up about his past, his memories intertwine with those of the village, and more is subsequently unveiled.

Directed by Hawraz Mohammed, Harsh Land and Distant Sky leans on a strong ensemble — Bakhtiyar Panjeei, Diman Zandi, Maryam Boubani — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2025.