Review of the movie Iranium

Written by Riley K. Smith

From sending children onto the battlefield to detonate mines to reports of being a state sponsor of terrorism, Iran’s militant regime rightfully earned its reputation as an “axis of evil.” Yet despite the reports, Iran resumed its nuclear program, and many legitimately wonder, “Why now?”

The Clarion Fund’s recent DVD release, Iranium, explores Iran’s nuclear intentions and discusses theories behind the “Why now?” question. Though Iran claims its nuclear plans are purely to generate other forms of energy for its populous country, evidence suggests otherwise, as Iran sits on the world’s second largest, natural gas reserve.

Iran’s intentions rightfully come into question when coupled with President Mahmoud Ahmedinejad’s prayers, hastening the return of the Mahdi, Islam’s end times' redeemer. It is this apocalyptic worldview that Iranium explores and exposes.

Anyone wishing to view this DVD need not have much knowledge of Iran’s history. The producers skillfully recap the last several decades, from the ousting of the Shah to the arrival of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini to the present-day protests against the regime. The question of who exactly is in charge in Iran is discussed—the Ayotallah, the Guardian Council of Mullahs, the basij, the Revolutionary Guard or the president?

What I found most poignant was the documentary’s comparison of the Cold War’s nuclear arms race between the U.S. and the former Soviet Union and the current hostility between Iran and the West, as well as Israel. This comparison takes the viewer back to the apocalyptic worldview and Iran’s promotion of martyrdom, making its intentions that much more of a concern. But the question remains: How long will the regime last given the numerous uprisings protesting the leadership?

Iranium is recommended for anyone interested in understanding the Iranian regime’s apocalyptic perspective and the potential danger it poses to the West and Israel. With respect to Christians in Iran, this film provides the political context to what believers are facing and gives substance to inspire prayers, especially for those believers currently in prison for their faith.

Riley K. Smith is the author of four books in VOM’s Restricted Nations series, including Iran, India, China and soon-to-be-released Pakistan.