So, I'm glad your post reminded me that I needed to go back and watch this all the way through, because it was very good! I agree with you that it wasn't a comedy, but I do think the whole incident with the villagers was intended to be somewhat comedic (at least, I laughed at points at the absurdity, and Panahi seemed to be smiling through a lot of it. Or maybe he was grimacing?). I was kind of confused as to why he was working at the border of Turkey when I assumed the couple whose story he was filming were in an Iranian city. But I guess they were in Turkey? And they couldn't get out of Turkey…
So glad to hear from you and to hear your thoughts! Yes, he was filming in Turkey, but forced to direct remotely, which is true-to-life. I think the crew really wanted him with them, but there could've been other factors at work as far as their intent to have him cross the border. Yes, some very comedic moments in the village, yet how quickly the mood can move from absurdity to downright terror and dread! I'll have to look to see if I still have your email. We should continue this conversation!
I started this one when Criterion sent me a recommendation, got about halfway through and had to stop because it was past my bedtime. And then because I have no self discipline when it comes to movies, I never went back. I was enjoying it, so thanks for the reminder. I'm going to go back and start from the beginning. I'll let you know what I think!
Hey, great to hear from you! Hope you are well. Yes, please let me know what you think of the film. I haven't talked with anyone else who's seen it. We'll have to catch up sometime!
So, I'm glad your post reminded me that I needed to go back and watch this all the way through, because it was very good! I agree with you that it wasn't a comedy, but I do think the whole incident with the villagers was intended to be somewhat comedic (at least, I laughed at points at the absurdity, and Panahi seemed to be smiling through a lot of it. Or maybe he was grimacing?). I was kind of confused as to why he was working at the border of Turkey when I assumed the couple whose story he was filming were in an Iranian city. But I guess they were in Turkey? And they couldn't get out of Turkey…
I started this one when Criterion sent me a recommendation, got about halfway through and had to stop because it was past my bedtime. And then because I have no self discipline when it comes to movies, I never went back. I was enjoying it, so thanks for the reminder. I'm going to go back and start from the beginning. I'll let you know what I think!