Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
My critics back home skeptically predicted that our access would be very limited—to
only the prettiest sights. (Meanwhile, Iranians I met were convinced that I'd doctor our
footage to make Iran look ugly and dangerous.) In reality, it was far less restrictive than
we'd expected. Some subjects were forbidden for reasons of security (banks, government,
military) or modesty (“un-veiled” women). But because we weren't filming an “exposé,”
we were allowed to shoot all that we needed to—including some provocative subjects,
such as anti-American or anti-Israeli murals (more on these later).
We were free to talk to and film people on the street, but this was a bit difficult. When
our camera was rolling, it reminded me of my early trips to the USSR, when only those
with nothing to lose would risk talking openly. At other times, such as when the crew was
busy setting up a shot, I was free to roam about on my own and have fun meeting the
locals. I have never traveled to a place where I had such an easy and enjoyable time con-
necting with people. Iranians were as confused and fascinated by me as I was by them.
Routinely I'd look up from my note-taking and see Iranians gathered, curious, and want-
ing to talk.
