The Making Waves Film Festival has long been celebrated for its innovative approach to cinema, seamlessly blending film with immersive experiences that captivate audiences. This year, the festival outdid itself with “My Favourite Cake: An Iranian Dining Experience,” held on March 29 at St. Simon’s Church in Southsea. This event was a harmonious fusion of film, food, and culture, leaving attendees with an unforgettable taste of Iran’s rich heritage.
Upon entering St. Simon’s Church, guests were transported into a Persian paradise. The venue was transformed into a beautifully designed garden space, inspired by traditional Iranian aesthetics. The ambiance was further enriched by the traditional Nowruz table setting, symbolizing the Persian New Year, which added a layer of authenticity and festivity to the evening.
The centerpiece of the evening was the screening of the award-winning Iranian film, My Favourite Cake (2024). The film delicately narrates the story of seventy-year-old Mahin, who chooses to revive her love life after years of solitude. Its poignant exploration of aging and loneliness resonated deeply with the audience, eliciting both laughter and tears. The compelling performances and unique storyline captivated viewers, making it a standout feature of the festival.
Complementing the cinematic experience was an authentic Persian feast, meticulously prepared by talented Iranian cooks from Portsmouth City of Sanctuary’s Kitchen of Hope. Under the guidance of professional chefs Soraya Hatami and Damon Hall from Taarof in Worthing, the menu featured traditional dishes that tantalized the taste buds. From the rich flavors of Kashk-e Bademjan (aubergine dip) to the aromatic Persian jeweled rice and the hearty Gheymeh (split pea stew), each dish was a testament to Iran’s culinary prowess. Refreshing beverages like saffron & rose iced tea and lime & mint cordial provided the perfect accompaniment, enhancing the overall dining experience.
As guests savored their meals, the atmosphere was further enlivened by a live performance from a talented Iranian band. The melodic strains of traditional Persian music filled the air, creating an immersive cultural experience that transcended the boundaries of film and food. The synergy between the music, setting, and cuisine transported attendees straight to the heart of Iran, fostering a deep appreciation for its rich cultural tapestry.
Beyond the sensory delights, the event held a deeper significance. Serving as a fundraiser for Portsmouth City of Sanctuary, the evening aimed to foster community spirit and raise awareness for refugee inclusion. The collaboration between Making Waves Film Festival and Kitchen of Hope exemplified the power of cultural events to bridge communities and support meaningful causes.Attendees left not only with enriched palates and hearts but also with a heightened awareness of the importance of inclusivity and support for refugees.
Reflecting on the evening, it’s evident that “My Favourite Cake: An Iranian Dining Experience” was more than just an event; it was a celebration of culture, community, and cinema. The seamless integration of film, food, and music created a multisensory journey that resonated deeply with all who attended. It’s events like these that underscore the Making Waves Film Festival’s commitment to extending and redefining the cinema experience beyond the expected, leaving no audience behind and making cinema relevant to diverse and marginalized communities.
As the festival continues to push boundaries and create unique cinematic experiences, one can only anticipate what innovative events will grace Portsmouth in the future. For those fortunate enough to have attended this year’s Iranian dining experience, the memories will undoubtedly linger, much like the lingering notes of a beautiful Persian melody or the rich flavors of a well-spiced dish.
The food was prepared by Kitchen of Hope, a project from Portsmouth City of Sanctuary that provides refugees the opportunity to cook dishes from their home countries. This charity-run kitchen cater for and brings a world of culture to events across Portsmouth a handful of times a month and at this experience, guests enjoyed a classic Arabic mezze salad, a lamb broth, a choice of fish, meat or vegetable couscous, and a delightful sweet couscous and fruit salad to finish the meal.
