Over the decades Iran has evolved as a superpower in the cinematic arena. Almost devoid of sex and violence, these movies vividly showcase the socio-political and religious scenario of contemporary Iran. While Kiarostami, Makhmalbaf, Asghar Farhadi’s works have been hugely appreciated worldwide, one more name rightfully deserves to be mentioned among the finest auteurs of Iran…it’s Majid Majidi ! From the soul wrenching story of an ostrich-rancher in The Song of Sparrows to a heart warming tale of innocence and generosity amidst poverty in Children of Heaven…Majid Majidi’s work has been a quintessential example of cinematic ecstasy. As Beyond the Clouds is going to hit the Indian screens in a few more days, let’s have a look at some of his most remarkable work so far….
Remarkable work of Majid Majidi
Baran (2001)
Baran is a unique love ballad in the backdrop of a twisted socio-political scenario. The movie is the story of an Iranian construction worker and his love for an Afghan refugee, who disguises herself as a boy. Baran brilliantly encompasses unrequited love, humour, sacrifice and struggle for existence in a simple, linear narrative.
The Willow Tree(2005)
It is a story of a blind man, who regains his eyesight in his middle age. The nuances he faces to cope up with the bright colourful new world he is suddenly exposed to, is pertinently narrated by Majid Majidi. While watching this, you might feel that the filmmaker is actually trying to depict the western influences on contemporary Iran and how it is ruining the very essence of Iranian culture.
Color of Paradise(1999)
It’s a beautifully crafted spiritual fable about a blind boy, who inspite of the atrocities of the world, never ceases to appreciate life, beauty and Almighty. The backbone of the movie is the unadorned, flawless storytelling coupled with the beauty of rugged yet lavish Iranian terrain.
Children of Heaven(1997)
Two children and a pair of shoes…that’s all Majid Majidi needed to create an overwhelming drama of humanity, sacrifice and bonding. The movie delicately narrates, how two impoverished kids face inconveniences due to loss of a pair of shoes, but never fail to support each other. This film will definitely urge you to stop taking the privileges for granted and to look at life in a new light!
Song of Sparrows(2008)
Sometimes the blurry line between right and wrong starts to dwindle, when misfortune strikes. We try to drift away from morality and choose the easy path. Set in rural Iran, Song of Sparrows is an achingly beautiful tale of an Ostrich-rancher Karim, who gets lured by the glitz and glamour of easy money and urban life. The movie daintily showcases, how urban ways of life can mar the rural, traditional values.
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Looking forward to watching these films. Thank you for this article.