Nakhoda Khorshid

Nakhoda Khorshid : ناخدا خورشید : "Captain Khorshid": A Landmark in Iranian Crime Cinema

"Captain Khorshid" is a notable Iranian crime film from 1986, written and directed by Naser Taghvai. The movie stars well-known actors such as Dariush Arjmand, Ali Nasirian, Fathali Oveisi, Saeed Poursamimi, and Parvaneh Masoumi, among others. This film is a loose adaptation of Ernest Hemingway's 1937 novel "To Have and Have Not."

The film garnered significant acclaim, particularly at the 5th Fajr Film Festival, where Dariush Arjmand received the Crystal Simorgh for Best Leading Actor and Saeed Poursamimi won the Golden Tablet for Best Supporting Actor. Additionally, Naser Taghvai was awarded the Bronze Leopard at the 41st Locarno International Film Festival for his outstanding work on this film. "Captain Khorshid" has been selected by critics and writers of Film monthly magazine as one of the best films in the history of Iranian cinema.

Plot Summary
Set in the 1960s, the story revolves around Captain Khorshid, a prominent figure in a coastal town who is betrayed by a local magnate, Khaje Majid. As a result, Khorshid’s smuggling boat is set ablaze. A broker named Farhan enters the scene with a plan to smuggle several political fugitives across the maritime border. When Khorshid learns his boat might be confiscated, he reluctantly collaborates with Farhan, aiding in the escape of individuals allegedly involved in the assassination of Prime Minister Hassan Ali Mansur.

Subsequently, several exiles approach Farhan to facilitate their escape. Despite his reluctance, Khorshid agrees to assist them, motivated by the chance to settle scores with Khaje Majid. Before their departure, the exiles murder Khaje Majid and his overseer, stealing Majid's pearls. The plot thickens when Colonel Farhan is murdered just before the voyage begins. During the journey, Khorshid’s assistant, Melool, is killed, and a bloody conflict ensues between the exiles and Khorshid, culminating in the death of all involved.