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Iranians are not used to seeing their nation portrayed in a positive light. So when the Iranian film, A Separation, was nominated for two Oscars at the 2012 Academy Awards, social media users were quick to leap on the "feel-good factor".

Iranians are acutely aware of the picture of the country abroad, especially in the West. They know that Iran conjures up an image of angry, bearded men storming embassies, human rights abuses and, of course, nuclear proliferation and possible war.

So any recognition internationally, be it in the arts, sciences or sports, creates a sense of excitement and national pride.