24 November 2009
In Granaz Moussavi’s impressive debut feature we gain a unique insight into the vibrant underground culture of Tehran.
But oppressive fundamentalism dogs aspiring actress Marzieh (Marzieh Vafamehr) and her friends. Angry brutal militia close down their dance party, her radical dissenting theatre work is threatened and she and her friends spend much of their days trying to remain under the radar.
Her prayers seem to be answered when her boyfriend, Australian citizen Saman (Amir Chegini), promises to take her back with him. But life does not go according to plan.
Marzieh has devastating news and is forced to take drastic action to escape the country and city she so dearly loves.
Shot under cover by talented cinematographer Bonnie Elliott with the footage smuggled out on concealed hard drives, this is a passionate and at times hauntingly beautiful film, but the fractured narrative makes it hard going for the viewer.
3 stars
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