Director: Mohammadreza Najafi
Cast: Elnaz Shakerdoost, Manoochehr Azar, Manuchehr Azari
Mobarak is an Iranian animated adventure-comedy film directed by Mohammadreza Najafi, following a beloved storyteller grandfather whose hand-crafted Shahnameh puppets spring into unexpected life — blending Persian literary heritage with family humor in a story built for both children and nostalgic adults.
What is Mobarak about?
An elderly puppeteer has spent decades enchanting audiences by bringing the legendary heroes of Shahnameh to life through his collection of handmade dolls. His granddaughter Golpari is a spirited, modern girl who sees the world very differently from her old-fashioned grandfather. The trouble begins when Essi Palang, the scheming owner of a nearby toy shop, sets her sights on stealing the priceless puppet collection. What she does not anticipate is that the dolls have a will of their own — the animated figures of ancient Persian mythology refuse to go quietly, turning a simple theft into a chaotic, comedic showdown between greed and the enduring power of storytelling.
Cast & crew
Director Mohammadreza Najafi guides a voice cast that includes Elnaz Shakerdoost, widely recognized across Iranian cinema and television, alongside Manoochehr Azar and Manuchehr Azari. Shakerdoost brings warmth and energy to the production, lending credibility to a film aimed squarely at family audiences while honoring Iran's deep animated-film tradition.
Context & significance
For Iranian diaspora families, Mobarak offers something genuinely rare: a home-grown animated feature rooted in Shahnameh — the Persian epic poem by Ferdowsi that anchors Iranian cultural identity for millions abroad. Watching the mythic heroes of Rostam's world reimagined as charming, mischievous puppets gives parents a natural bridge to share Persian literary heritage with children who grew up outside Iran. The film sits within a small but meaningful tradition of Iranian animation that tries to reclaim classic stories for young audiences, making it a conversation-starter across generations wherever Persian is spoken.
Where & how to watch
Mobarak is available on K-Time with Persian audio — no VPN needed, no geo-blocking, and no extra download required. Watch on your TV, phone, or browser and cancel anytime.