
Synopsis Abdulma explores the beliefs, folklore, and everyday life of the Arab communities of southern Iran. The documentary centers on the local legend of Abdulma, a mythical water spirit believed to emerge from the water and carry young girls away. Using this legend as a narrative thread, Abbas Amini offers an ethnographic portrait of the region's culture, rituals, social relationships, and daily life.
About the Film
In an interview, Abbas Amini described the documentary as follows:
“Abdulma is a highly anthropological documentary that explores the beliefs, social relationships, and way of life of the Arab communities of southern Iran. The film places particular emphasis on ethnographic and anthropological elements.”
He also explains that, unlike his documentary Taste of the Sun, which leans toward poetic cinema, Abdulma is primarily focused on documenting indigenous culture, traditions, and local beliefs.
Abdulma in Abbas Amini's Filmography
Abdulma is Abbas Amini's fourth known work, following his narrative short films Silence, Silence 2, and Shell Children. The documentary marks the beginning of a significant period in his career devoted to documentary filmmaking, with a strong focus on the culture and everyday life of southern Iran.