Why 1401?
In the Iranian calendar, 1401 (2022 in Gregorian calendar, 3759 in Zoroastrian calendar) was the year when the world witnessed the courage of the Iranian people after the death of Mahsa Amini. It was the year when voices that had long been silenced rose together in defiance, demanding justice, freedom, and dignity.
1401 Films is all about resistance, resilience, and the fight to be heard.
Voicing the unheard
We’re a small indie production company based in California, but our focus is global. So far, we’ve produced short films that have gone on to play at festivals and even win awards—but for us, the real reward is sharing stories that matter.
Every project we take on comes from a place of honesty and a desire to spark empathy. We want our films to start conversations, build understanding, and remind people that those who are suppressed or overlooked still have powerful stories to tell.
Founder's Note
I’m Bardia Samia, the founder of 1401 Films. I started this company because I believe in the power of film to shine a light on people and stories that are too often ignored. Being Iranian myself, I’ve seen how voices can be silenced, and I want my work to be a way of giving them space to be heard.
