Waitress

“Waitress” is a feature-length fiction film about two Iranian immigrant women in Montreal who work as waitresses in a small restaurant. Life in Canada has become difficult for them due to financial pressures, and the political situation in Iran has made returning home impossible. One night, after finishing their shift, an unexpected event occurs that changes both of their lives forever.

Mania, a theater director, and Atrin, a physics student, are two Iranian immigrant women living in Montreal who work as waitresses in a small Iranian restaurant owned by Azita. The restaurant is popular within the Iranian community and is often a hangout spot, especially for Iranian taxi drivers.

Mania and Atrin became friends about three years ago during the Woman, Life, Freedom protests in Montreal. For a long time, after finishing their shifts at night, they’ve been spending time in the restaurant kitchen playfully imitating their boss and themselves — a game that started as a joke but gradually becomes more serious. Due to recent political developments and the economic collapse in Iran, both women find themselves under severe pressure. Atrin has been forced to abandon her studies, and her immigration status is uncertain. Yet, because of her political activism, returning to Iran is not an option.

One night, Azita notices something suspicious about Mania. A heated confrontation ensues, and…