Aparatchi (فیلم آپاراتچی) is an Iranian film directed by Ghorbanali Taherfar, released in 2023. The story centers on Jalil, a young house painter with a profound passion for cinema. Despite lacking formal education, Jalil has successfully created several short films and aspires to produce his first feature-length movie. Set in the early 1980s in Tabriz, the narrative unfolds during a period marked by significant social events, including the Iran-Iraq war and political upheavals. Jalil’s journey reflects his determination to overcome societal and familial obstacles, particularly the disapproval of his father, Heidar, who fears his son will be consumed by the world of cinema. The film is a heartfelt tribute to the love of cinema and the challenges faced by aspiring filmmakers in a tumultuous era.

The cast includes Touraj Alvand as Jalil, Fatemeh Masoudifar, Reza Naji, Hooman Barghnavard, Behnam Tashakkor, and Alireza Ostadi. “Aparatchi” garnered critical acclaim, receiving the Special Jury Prize for Best Director in the New Look section at the 42nd Fajr Film Festival.