If you have been searching for a movie that you can connect with emotionally, and that will leave you feeling intellectually satisfied, then you will want to get a seat for the movie Circumstance; a family drama, that a lot of people can relate to. Every minute that unfolds of this movie, reveals an aspect of the Iranian culture and people, that virtually nobody outside of the country could possibly be aware of. The actresses and actors who have been assembled to bring this story to life, do so with a sincerity and authenticity that is unexpected and very much appreciated. They are committed to bringing this story to life, in a manner that brings you out of your seat, metaphorically speaking, and into their lives. You will find yourself trying to give the characters advice, when you see them about to do something wrong, and wondering after the movie is over, how the story would continue to unfold if the movie didn't stop. It's an experience that happens subtlety, and that you will surely treasure.
The central characters in the film are Atafeh, played by Nikohl Boosheri, and Shireen, played by Sarah Kazemy. They share a relationship that evolves in a way that brings them face to face with the reality of their culture, and their people. It's a heart felt connection that is literally and figuratively stretched, and tested to the breaking point, both by the culture they live in, and their own family. The relationships they have with their family and friends, and with themselves, will shift and be exposed for what they really are. Will someone betray the other, or themselves, it's the central context of the story, and is why the audience is so captivated by the performances that bring the story to life.
The story takes place in Iran, a country that most of the world is only vaguely familiar with. Some of us may have read or heard references to the Iranian Revolution that takes place in 1978. Why this happened, and how it has shaped current day Iran is not something most people can explain though, much less relate to. Atafeh will make a key statement about the Revolution, the role her father played in it, and how this has shaped the world she lives in. The candor of the statement will show the essence of what life is like for the youth of Iran, conveying emotion that seems to be seldom seen or referenced to. It's the feeling of the moment, that emotion that shows threw Atafeh's face, that leaves you feeling sympathetic for both her and her father.
Shireen's family history is only hinted at, in part because of the shame and blame the Iranian government wants her to feel. It also binds her to a fate that she will try and escape, threw her relationship with Atafeh. Another integral character that comes into play, is Atafeh's brother, Mehran, played by Reza Sixo Safai. He is indeed a lost soul, whose facade crumbles to reveal a man whose only concern is satisfying his desires of the moment, be it a drug addiction, or what he believes is his faith in religion. Neither provide the stability and emotional connection that he craves. But they do set him on a collision course with his family, and his sister, who in the beginning adores him, but over time, begins to despise him.
The cultural aspects of Iran, both historical and contemporary, will play out during the course of the film too, giving the audience a wide perspective on what keeps Iranian families connected, such as singing together; or what the youth of Iran appreciate, such as dancing to Persian rap/hip hop music.
The director, Maryam Keshavarz, knows how to deliver a film that can win over the audience both at Sundance, where it won the coveted Audience Award, and at your local theater. This film delivers what every film should, an entertaining and worthwhile experience, that you will want to share with your family and friends. It's a film that you won't ever forget.
"Circumstance" opens August 19, 2011 and is not rated. Drama. Written by Maryam Keshavarz. Starring Nikohl Boosheri, Sarah Kazemy, Reza Sixo Safai.
