It Was Just an Accident is a thriller movie written and directed by Jafar Panahi. It stars Vahid Mobasseri, Mariam Afshari, Ebrahim Azizi, Hadis Pakbaten, Majid Panahi, among others. The film deals with themes of political repression, identity, revenge, and moral ambiguity.
The story follows a man named Hassan, who accidentally kills someone in a car crash. As he struggles to hide the truth and deal with guilt, he finds himself trapped in a web of lies, fear, and corruption. The film explores how one mistake can change a person’s life forever.
It Was Just an Accident premiered at the Cannes Film Festival on May 20, 2025, and had its theatrical release in October 2025 via Memento Distribution.
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When and Where Was It Was Just an Accident Filmed?
| Film Name | It Was Just an Accident |
|---|---|
| Genres | Thriller |
| Filming Locations | In and around Tehran, Iran |
| Filming Dates | Completed in less than 30 shooting days |
| Cinematography by | Amin Jafari |
| Release Date | Premiered at Cannes May 20, 2025; theatrical release October 2025 |
The movie was secretly filmed in and around Tehran, Iran. Since the film discusses sensitive political themes, it was made without government permission. The filming team used small digital cameras and natural light to avoid attention. The project faced several breaks — one lasting 20 days — when authorities appeared during production. Despite these challenges, the team completed filming in under 30 shooting days spread over several months.
📍Tehran and Surrounding Areas
The primary filming took place in and around Tehran, Iran. Most of the movie was filmed in Tehran, the capital of Iran. The filmmakers used real city streets, residential buildings, and small local shops for shooting. Many scenes take place inside a moving van, giving the film a realistic, on-the-road feel. Director Jafar Panahi chose this setting for its authentic urban atmosphere and to reflect the struggles of ordinary Iranian citizens.
Some scenes were filmed in the outskirts and suburban areas of Tehran, where the surroundings appear quieter and less crowded. These locations added a sense of isolation and tension that fits the film’s emotional tone. The mix of city and suburban backdrops helped create the feeling of a man constantly on the run.
As per the Definition, reports protect themselves; the filmmakers kept the crew extremely small. In the words of cinematographer Amin Jafari:
“We had to shape the film’s visual language from the limitations … the frames, lighting and spaces weren’t recreated; they were the actual environments where we and the cast actually lived.”
They completed filming in less than 30 shooting days, even though interruptions occurred. During one pause, security forces appeared, forcing the team to hide footage and equipment.
Because of the danger of detection, filming was done with minimal equipment and mobility — the whole crew could fit into two cars.
Is There a Trailer Available for It Was Just an Accident?
Yes, a month ago, Neon’s Official YouTube Channel shared a trailer for It Was Just an Accident:-
FAQs
Q1: Where was It Was Just an Accident filmed?
A1: The movie was secretly filmed in and around Tehran, Iran, using real streets and interiors.
Q2: How did the filmmakers manage filming without permission?
A2: They kept the crew small, used minimal equipment, shot in real locations, and avoided drawing attention. Civilian settings, mobile shooting (e.g. inside a van) and secrecy were key.
Q3: When was filming of It Was Just an Accident take place?
A3: Filming occurred over less than 30 shooting days, spread over time, with at least one 20-day halt due to security concerns.
Q4: Can I visit It Was Just an Accident filming locations?
A4: Because the film used everyday streets and interiors around Tehran (not special sets), and because of the covert nature of production, it’s unlikely that there’s a formal “tour” of filming locations. Also, many specific locations are not publicly disclosed for safety.