Synopsis: Elsa is a writer but she can not write anymore. She is stuck in the illusion of an affair with a married man. The appearance of a man creates a lightbulb moment in her life.

Notes from the director, Katayoon Halajan

Pousse les murs (Push the walls) is the title of a french short film with english subtitles that is to some extent a reflection of my own life. It wasn’t until I moved to France that I wanted to write a film about a subject which is banned in Iran, where I’m from. Unfortunately in my country it is not possible to speak or make films on taboo subjects like sexuality or politics because of the lack of freedom of expression. My character, Elsa, in the film, is a writer and political activist. She lives alone in Paris without any friends. Elsa has not been able to write for years. She is stuck and furthermore, lives in great solitude. The film is about individualism, narcissism and emancipation through sexuality and true love.

Project presentation

Katayoon Halajan is a journalist and writer. One day, out of loneliness in the summer heat of August, an idea she had in mind took shape. She called her friend Mahshid Dastgheib, an actress who studied film while playing in theater and cinema. Together, the two of them transformed the story into a scenario by infusing a dose of melancholy. Once completed, they shared it with Patrice Carré, a director, producer and cinema journalist, who added his advice to retouch the scenario. Katayoon will perform while Mahshid will play the lead role. They have collaborated for over a year now on this project and are now reaching the threshold of achievement. Almost there! They have been able to bring together a superb ensemble which you will find in a detailed list below.

The team

Katayoon Halajan - Director & Co-writer

Mahshid Dastgheib - Actress & Co-writer

Antonin Tanner - Chief Operator & Editor

Christian Guyard - Art Director (Studiometis), Music Producer

Adam Bernadac - Composer (piano)

Patrice Carré: Producer

Rehearsal of a short film scene with actress Mahshid Dastgheib