A Tribute to the Legendary Parviz Sayyad | 2026 UCLA Celebration
One of the most unforgettable moments of the 2026 UCLA Celebration of Iranian Cinema was our tribute to the legendary Parviz Sayyad, whose remarkable career has left an enduring mark on Iranian cinema and culture.
We were deeply honored to welcome Mr. Sayyad and his longtime collaborator and muse, Mary Apick, for a special evening featuring screenings of two of their celebrated films: CHECKPOINT (1987) and DEAD END (1976). These timeless works offered audiences the rare opportunity to revisit two cinematic masterpieces on the big screen in the company of the artists who brought them to life.
Following the screenings, guests enjoyed a thoughtful and engaging conversation with Mr. Sayyad and Ms. Apick, moderated by actor, producer, and activist Sara Seyed, who guided a moving discussion about their artistic partnership, creative legacy, and the lasting impact of their work on generations of filmmakers and audiences.
Presented by the UCLA Film & Television Archive in partnership with Farhang Foundation, this special tribute celebrated not only an extraordinary body of work, but also the enduring power of Iranian cinema to inspire, challenge, and connect audiences across cultures.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this unforgettable evening honoring one of the true legends of Iranian cinema.
All photography by Vafa Khatami
