At the 11th hour I’ve had to postpone the release of Cine Persia Voices of Iranian Cinema scheduled for tomorrow …. and I’m angry about this to say the least. The anger is not directed at aspects beyond my control - the postponement of interviews with key people. I want avid readers interested in world independent cinema and geopolitics to buy this book. However I won’t convince them to part with cash for work that is incomplete and poor quality. Here are the three main reasons why I’ve had to reschedule.
The heart of Cine Persia is the insight of the filmmakers who shaped Iranian cinema. Their work showcases Iranian stories, whether born within the Motherland or across the diaspora. However, securing first-hand interviews can be a logistical puzzle of vast time differences and demanding schedules. Sometimes, life simply gets in the way. Because several filmmakers whose perspectives are vital to this work were delayed, I felt it would be wrong to publish without them. This extension ensures I can include the talent whose work speaks volumes about the Iranian experience.
I’ve learned the hard way that working while on holiday isn’t as seamless as it seems.
Unless your luggage allowance includes a desk lamp, a wide-screen monitor, and a high-performance laptop, finishing a book from a beach is a tall order. While my Chromebook is excellent for field research and social media, it lacks the horsepower for heavy book editing. Limited RAM and a spotty internet connection turn a simple task—like editing a 5,000-word chapter with high-res images—into an up hill climb. While I’ve cleared a mountain of research, the final compilation requires the stability of my home studio to bring it all together.
As an advocate for independent film, I’ve spent a lot of time weighing the best e-shop formats and publishing platforms. I wanted a solution that stayed true to my indie roots and at the same time remaining professional. Unfortunately, I hit several technical roadblocks that meant Cine Persia wouldn’t have functioned perfectly on its original launch day. I’ve gone back to the drawing board to recalibrate and course-correct. My priority now is ensuring the platform I choose provides the best possible accessibility and reach for my readers.
Stepping back to move forward is never an easy decision, but for a project as close to my heart as Cine Persia, I refuse to settle for “well that’ll do.” This extra month will allow me to polish the design, secure the remaining vital voices, and ensure that the shop experience is as seamless as the films I’m writing about. Thank you for your continued support and for joining me on this journey through the lens of Iranian cinema.
Save the Date: 31st May 2026 Cine Persia will be available at https://cine-bijou.co.uk
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