We were in four by four. We went like exactly like they said, and there was this village that

was literally lost in time. There was a little boy in flip-flops with hitting the stick with a sheep

going up the mountain. I have the video. And I walk trying to follow this kid up the mountain,

and I cannot do it. This kid's running up with flip-flops. I have like hiking boots. I can

barely catch up to him.

And it's just 20 families that live in this ancient town.

And we had to get the approval of the state in the archaeologist.

And we shot there, and it became a UNESCO site after.

It really was, like, an ancient untouched village. It was incredible.

Okay. ancient untouched village. It was incredible. Hello, and welcome back to the director's cut, brought to you by the director's cut, brought to you by the Directors Guild of America.

In this episode, a family crisis reunites an estranged mother and daughter and director Mariam Keshevar's comedic drama, The Persian Version.

The film tells the story of Layla, an Iranian-American woman who strives to find balance

in her opposing cultures.

But when her large family gathers in New York for her father's heart transplant, a family

secret is uncovered that catapults Leila and her mother into an exploration of the past.

In addition to the Persian version, Keshavars' other

directorial credits include the feature films, Vipra Club, and Circumstance, and episodes of the series

Queen Sugar and All Rise. Following a screening of the film at the DGA Theater in New York,

Keshavar spoke with director Crystal

Moselle about filming the Persian version. Listen on for their spoiler-filled conversation.

Thanks for coming. So sorry I had to spend the evening with my family.

I had to spend a lifetime, so you guys get two hours with them.

...