Mahdokht Molaei (Persian: مهدخت مولایی; born April 21, 1990) is an Iranian actress, film director, and producer. She is known for her work in independent and international cinema, with notable roles in Botax (2020), Lily’s Turn (2022), and The Castle (2018). Molaei has been recognized at several international film festivals.
Early life and education Molaei was born in Tehran, Iran, on April 21, 1990. She began her artistic career in 2010 and has since established herself in various aspects of filmmaking including acting, directing, and producing. In addition to her work in film, she serves as a mentor at Maajara Film School and is a recipient of Emerson College's Presidential Fellowship. She is pursuing an MFA degree in filmmaking at Emerson College.
Career Molaei's directorial debut, They Are Looking at Us (2016), received an Honorary Diploma from Pasargad Bank 180 second film festival. Her performance in Botax earned her nominations at the Shanghai International Film Festival, and the Nice International Film Festival.
She has participated in numerous national and international productions, often portraying complex female characters. Her recent film, Homa, has been screened at international festivals including IAWRT India.
Filmography Film Year Title Role Notes 2016 They Are Looking at Us — Director and producer 2016 Inadaptable Sara 2016 Duet Shahrzad 2016 Daughter Pouneh 2017 Villa Dwellers Nadereh 2018 Black Eared Mahtab Co-producer and co-writer 2020 Botox Azar 2020 Killer Spider Victim 2022 Lily’s Turn Termeh 2022 Polaroid Sepideh 2023 The Black Sheep Maryam 2024 Sina — Co-director and lead role 2025 Remove Before Use Mahya
Television Year Title Role Network 2019 Quiet Assassination Nava IRIB TV1 2023 Shahbaz Najva IRIB TV1
Awards and recognition 2020 – Winner – Best Actress, The Castle, BIMIFF 2021 – Nominee – Best Actress, Botox, Shanghai International Film Festival 2024 – Honorary Diploma – Best Actress, Inherited, Nahal Short Film Festival, Iran 2023 – Nominee – Best Actress, Polaroid, Omid International Film Festival 2025 – Nominee – Best Actress, The Last Whinny…, Open Air Film Festival
References
External links
Mubi profile