Award-winning director Armin Nasseri wants to change the way U.S. audiences see ethnic minorities in the U.S., and it seems festivals both in the U.S. and abroad applaud Nasseri’s efforts. Nasseri’s psychological thriller short was an Official Selection of the Culver City Film Festival and screened for audiences at the Arclight Cinema of Culver City. Seeking Valentina continues its festival run at a number of esteemed festival with screenings scheduled at Toronto World International Film Festival, Mumbai Shorts International Film Festival, Singapore World International Film Festival, the Las Vegas Galaxy Film Awards and Imphal International Film Festival.

Seeking Valentina, written and directed by Armin Nasseri, follows Benjamin (played by Ali Bavarian), an Iranian-American writer, in the pangs of grief. When Benjamin takes in a whimsical and an engaging tenant and she mysteriously disappears, it is for the audience to decide is she a ghost, a hallucination, a dream or a runaway. Enigmatic and controversial to some, Seeking Valentina has received tremendous critical acclaim worldwide. Nasseri vigorously resisted stereotyping throughout his production, and cast many actors against type. Regarding his film’s recent success both in the U.S. and abroad, Nasseri says, “I am deeply humbled and honored that Seeking Valentina continues to touch such a diverse audience and grateful to have it screen in so many exciting venues”

Kristin West, lead actress and producer, says, “We are so grateful for the enthusiastic reception and recognition of Seeking Valentina worldwide. It’s such an honor to work on a project that’s touched so many people.” Nasseri and West follow their success at Culver City Film Festival with a screening at Toronto World International Film Festival on Dec. 6th, a screening at Mumbai Shorts International Film Festival on Dec. 12th and subsequent screenings in Imphal, Singapore and Las Vegas to be announced in the new year.