New Review: No One Knows About Persian Cats

Arabian Nights

Every once in a while, you come across a film that manages to speak to you quite profoundly. It might not have all the best qualities that can make up a film, but there's an energy, a spirit that it possesses that inspires the whole thing to a level that seems greater than its humble status. Suffice it to say, it doesn't happen to every film. However, when watching this little indie, I couldn't help but get that feeling; that feeling of why movies are made in the first place. To gather around a story and tell it, despite whatever circumstances or roadblocks may be presented in your way.

Shot as a type of modern musical, the same way that a film like Once was made, this film follows a similar tale of struggling musicians trying to make it big. Negar and Ashkan are two youths looking to make it big with their indie rock band, even grabbing "manager" Nader who helps them get the other members, permits to play, and visas to leave the country so they can perform elsewhere. What makes this story more interesting is that it takes place in Iran, where strict laws against artistic expression make what this group is doing that much more dangerous.

This film perfectly embodies the spirit of the underdog. All through, these characters persist to create something they treasure despite the obstacles around them and the pressure to cease. It's an inspiring message that is joyful to watch unfold. However, it's also nice that the film is not an entire critique on Iran; these characters also love their country and do not want to disrespect it. It's a view of the culture that most western films tend to shy away from, and director Banham Ghobadi does this film a great service by not indulging in that critique. The cinematography captures the world well, allowing the visual intensity to work well with the humble indie spirit. His script is simple, but works its own magic. It stumbles at the end in a big way, though, allowing a histrionic ending to stunt the maturity of the story, but fortunately it coms at the end.

The performances for the most part hold the film together well. My favorite is probably Hamed Behdad, who plays Nader. His boastful energy and unflinching dedication to making the band get by manages to be quite humorous and touching at the same time. When he feels like he has failed, we feel the total amount of devastation that he feels as well. The weak link does feel like Negar, played by Negar Shaghaghi, in which she feels like a bit like an amateur that doesn't quite live up to the rest of the film. Being the center of the film doesn't help her case, but at least she works well with the rest of the cast.

The film does have a few faults in the storytelling, and it might indulge on one too many musical numbers that showcase Tehran in a frantic way, but in the end I found this to be a fascinating film. Not only is it a mostly well-told story with interesting characters and a showcase of nice music and songs, but most importantly, it gives a side that usually isn't seen in this part of the world, and balancing the critical with the respectful gives way to a universal feeling that is identifiable with any human being. It's the reason why movies are made, and it's the reason why I enjoyed this one so much.

B+