Back in Cannes for the first time in 15 years, dissident Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi spoke to AFP about how he feels "alive" thanks to filmmaking and the danger of continuing to work in the Islamic republic.

Imprisoned twice and until recently subjected to a travel ban, Panahi also said he was not afraid of the consequences of showing "It Was Just an Accident" in Cannes.

The answers have been translated by AFP from the original Persian and edited for clarity:

Q: Your new film "It Was Just an Accident" explores the moral dilemma faced by Iranians tempted to take revenge on their torturers. What does this say about the issues facing Iranian society?

"We chose a range of characters, from violent to non-violent, from a simple man to someone completely detached from such concerns.

"Through their actions and reactions, we reach --........

© Al Monitor