Alamto, a Reptile Wonderland (2014)
A film by:
Alamto, a Reptile Wonderland
Embark on a captivating journey into the heart of Iran’s unique biodiversity with Alamto: A Reptile Wonderland. This extraordinary documentary takes you deep into the rugged landscapes of Ilam, where the ancient Zagros Mountains have shaped a habitat unlike any other on earth.
In this land of extremes, a remarkable variety of rare and exotic reptiles thrive, adapting to the harsh climatic conditions and challenging terrain. Among them is one of the most mysterious creatures ever caught on camera: the Spider-tailed Horned Viper. For the first time, this elusive viper is showcased in stunning detail, revealing its fascinating behavior and struggle for survival.
Alamto: A Reptile Wonderland is more than just a wildlife documentary; it is a breathtaking exploration of nature’s resilience. Filmed in the western reaches of Iran, this film offers an unprecedented glimpse into a world where rare species fight against the odds to continue their existence. Prepare to be amazed by the extraordinary wildlife that calls this wonderland home.
ABU 2015
Istanbul, Turkey
October 30, 2015
Best Feature Documentary Award
Japan Prize 2015
Tokyo, Japan
October 15, 2015
Official Selection
Wildlife Conservation Film Festival
New York City, USA
October 24, 2015
Official Selection
International Cinema Verite Film Festival
Tehran, Iran
December 1, 2014
The Grand Prize
Green Screen Film Festival
Germany
September 10, 2015
Official Selection
Iran’s House of Cinema Ceremony
Tehran, Iran
September 1, 2014
The Best Researcher & The Best Photography & The Best Original Music
International Fadjr Film Festival
Tehran, Iran
December 1, 2014
Nominated for the Best Film, The Best Researcher, and The Best Technical Achievement
International Tehran Short Film Festival
Tehran, Iran
October 1, 2014
The Best Photography & The Best Director
International Roshd Film Festival
Tehran, Iran
September 25, 2014
The Best Documentary Film & Iran’s Department of Environment’s Prize
Ahvaz International Science Film Festival
Ahvaz, Iran
February 1, 2015
The Best Director
Iranian Society of Critics and Writers
Tehran, Iran
December 14, 2014
The Best Documentary Film Award
Nature Vision Film Festival
Ludwigzburg, Germany
July 25, 2015
Trailer
Gallery & Behind the Scenes
Latest News and Reviews
Here are some of the latest news articles and reviews about ‘Alamto, a Reptile Wonderland.’ Stay updated on the film’s journey across media and festivals.
Director
Fathollah Amiri
Director and Producer
Fathollah Amiri is a renowned documentary filmmaker with a distinguished career focusing on the environment and wildlife of Iran. He has garnered significant recognition on the international stage, including serving as a judge at prestigious environmental film festivals such as the Matsalu Nature Film Festival in Estonia in 2019 and the Sondrio Festival of Environmental Films in Italy in 2020.
Amiri has won over 50 national awards and 20 international awards for his various works. Notable achievements include the Crystal Simorgh for Best Feature Documentary in 2011 for "In Search of the Iranian Leopard," the Grand Prize for Best Film at the Cinema Verite Festival in 2014 for "Life in Cold Veins," the Cypress Award for Best Documentary Series at the Jam-e Jam TV Festival in 2013 for producing the series "Reptiles of Iran," the Cypress Award for Best Documentary Director at the Jam-e Jam TV Festival in 2018 for "The Ranger and the Leopard," and the Best Documentary Award at the National Student Film Festival for "Life in Eclipse."
One of his most significant accomplishments is winning the prestigious "Wildscreen" award, known as the Green Oscar, for his film "In the Realm of the Spider-Tailed Viper."
His recent works include "In the Whirlpool of Extinction," "Houbara," and "The Gamekeeper."
Fathollah Amiri holds a Master's degree in Documentary Production from the IRIB University and is a member of the Iranian Documentary Filmmakers Association, the Iranian Documentary Cinema Producers Association, and the Environmental Committee of IRIB.
Director's Statement
The journey of creating ‘Alamto, a Reptile Wonderland’ began with a spark of curiosity, ignited by a single conversation that changed my perspective on wildlife forever. When Mr. Abdali from the Iranian Department of Environment first mentioned the existence of the Spider-tailed Viper, I was intrigued. The idea of bringing this mysterious creature and the unique reptiles of Ilam to the world fascinated me.
The first time I witnessed the Spider-tailed Viper in its natural habitat, I was in awe. Missing the perfect shot during its hunt was disheartening, but it fueled my determination to capture that moment—and eventually, we did. My ultimate goal with this film has always been to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation. ‘Alamto, a Reptile Wonderland’ has already played a part in protecting this unique species and the rich biodiversity of Ilam.
The process of making this film has not only deepened my connection to nature but also inspired me to continue documenting the untold stories of Iran’s wildlife. I look forward to creating more films that will bring these hidden treasures to light. I hope ‘Alamto, a Reptile Wonderland’ inspires you to appreciate the wonders of nature and to play your part in preserving our planet’s fragile ecosystems.
Filmography
- In Search of the Iranian Leopard (2011)
- Alamto A Reptile Wonderland (2014)
- Reptiles of Iran (2013)
- The Ranger and the Leopard (2018)
- Life in Eclipse (2009)
- In the Realm of the Spider-Tailed Viper (2018)
- In the Whirlpool of Extinction (2017)
- Houbara (2018)
Streaming
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Film Specifications
Credits:
- Director: Fathollah Amiri
- Writer: Fathollah Amiri, Dr. Behzad Fathinia
- Producer: Fathollah Amiri
- Cameraman: Mehdi Noor Mohammadi, Mahmoud Mansoori
- Original Music: Babak Mirzakhani
- Editor: Majid Mohammaddoust
- Sound Design: Majid Mohammaddoust
- Production: Wildlife Pictures intitute
- Produced in: IRIB ILAM Channel
Film Roadmap & Milestones
- Production (2010 - 2014)
- Post-Production (2014)
- Film Festival Circuit (2014 - 2016)
- Press & Media Coverage (2014 - 2022)
- Free Release of Film Footage (2030)
- Open Access to the Film (2035)
Quick Links
Get In Touch
- mail: abbas@souzian.com
- Phone: +90-538-378-77-03
- Address: Pärnu mnt. 139c, 11317, Tallinn