Core Viewpoint - Hemayoun Eshadi, an Iranian actor, transitioned from a career in architecture to acting, gaining international recognition after starring in Abbas Kiarostami's film "Taste of Cherry" which won the Palme d'Or at the 1997 Cannes Film Festival [1][3][5]. Group 1: Early Life and Career Transition - Hemayoun Eshadi was born on April 25, 1947, in Isfahan, Iran, and initially studied architecture in Italy before returning to Iran to work in the construction industry [1]. - After the 1979 revolution, he moved to Canada and returned to Iran in 1991, where he initially ran a furniture store with his family [1]. Group 2: Breakthrough in Film - Eshadi was discovered by director Abbas Kiarostami for the lead role in "Taste of Cherry," which tells the story of a man seeking help to end his life [1][3]. - Kiarostami's unique approach involved not rehearsing lines but allowing Eshadi to absorb the character's essence through recorded footage, which contributed to the film's emotional depth [3]. Group 3: Recognition and Subsequent Roles - "Taste of Cherry" won the Palme d'Or at the 1997 Cannes Film Festival, with Eshadi's performance receiving critical acclaim [3][5]. - Following his debut, Eshadi starred in "The Pear Tree," which won a silver award at the Chicago International Film Festival, further establishing his reputation as a talented actor despite having no formal training [5][6]. Group 4: International Career - Eshadi's role in "The Kite Runner" marked his entry into international cinema, where he played the father of the protagonist, earning praise from critics [6]. - He continued to work in Hollywood and European films, often portraying characters that represented foreign threats in post-9/11 cinema [7]. Group 5: Later Life and Passing - In his later years, Eshadi faced health challenges due to cancer, leading to a gradual withdrawal from acting [7]. - He passed away on November 11, 2023, after battling the illness [7].