Temporary Nomad

Valentin documents his two-year journey eastward from Austria — hitchhiking, sleeping on strangers’ sofas and under open skies, encountering people from all walks of life.

Deep in Iran’s mountains he makes an unexpected encounter with one of the last nomadic families. At first, communication is possible only through gestures. Despite the language barrier, a deep bond develops.

As they travel together, Valentin gains insight into a disappearing world, caught between centuries-old tradition, the pull of the modern world, and an oppressive regime. Visa restrictions force Valentin to leave, but his fascination for the nomad family remains. Determined to find the family again, he returns three months later.

This time, he is joined by two Iranian friends, which opens the possibility of real conversation. The long-awaited dialogue unfolds in ways he never expected.