"A country without documentaries is like a family without a photo album." — Patricio Guzmán
Iranian documentaries are out there. Docunight wants to be the album.
Docunight is a curated streaming platform dedicated to showcasing the rich tapestry of Iranian documentary cinema. We believe in the power of documentaries to bridge cultures, tell untold stories, and provide authentic perspectives on Iran and its people. Through our carefully selected collection, we aim to make Iranian documentaries accessible to a global audience, fostering understanding and appreciation for Iranian culture and society.
Docunight began as an initiative under The Kiarostami Foundation in 2014, starting with monthly screenings in San Francisco. What began as a local cultural program quickly grew into something much larger. By 2020, we had expanded to 25 cities across North America, with most screenings held at universities in the United States and Canada.
When the pandemic paused public screenings in 2020, we pivoted to create an online streaming platform, making Iranian documentaries available to a broader international audience. This transition allowed us to reach viewers worldwide and continue our mission of cultural exchange through cinema.
At Docunight, we go beyond simple distribution. Our work includes:
Our platform features a diverse range of documentaries that explore various aspects of Iranian life, culture, history, and society. From intimate personal stories to sweeping historical narratives, from contemporary social issues to timeless cultural traditions, our collection offers multiple perspectives on Iran and its diaspora.
We regularly update our library with new acquisitions, ensuring that our subscribers always have access to fresh content while maintaining our high standards of curation and quality.
Docunight has collaborated with prestigious cultural institutions worldwide. Our partnerships include programs with the Orlando Museum of Art and the American University in Cairo, where we host film series that complement major exhibitions and cultural events.
Docunight operates as an initiative of the Kiarostami Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization based in California, USA. The foundation is dedicated to preserving and promoting Iranian cinema and culture, carrying forward the legacy of the renowned filmmaker Abbas Kiarostami.
Under the leadership of Ahmad Kiarostami, the foundation works to bridge cultural divides through the universal language of cinema, fostering dialogue and understanding between different communities around the world.
We envision a world where Iranian stories are heard, understood, and appreciated globally. Through the power of documentary cinema, we aim to challenge stereotypes, build empathy, and create meaningful connections between Iran and the international community.
Docunight is more than a streaming service—it's a cultural bridge, a digital archive, and a celebration of the rich documentary tradition that continues to flourish in Iran and its diaspora.
Whether you're a film enthusiast, a student of Middle Eastern culture, or simply curious about Iran, Docunight offers you a window into stories that matter. Subscribe today and become part of a global community that values authentic storytelling and cultural exchange.