ZOOM: Iranian Cinema: Gateway to an Isolated Nation   

**This class will be taught on Zoom**

Iranian cinema offers a rare lens into an ancient, diverse society often misrepresented by domestic and  Western media. This course examines the ingenuity of filmmakers who navigate political persecution to  craft works that represent, critique, and celebrate cultural nuances. We will review three decades of  cinema in Abbas Kiarostami’s poetic narrative Where’s the Friend’s House (1987), Bahman Ghobadi’s  poignant portrayals of the Kurdish minority in Turtles Can Fly (2004), and Asghar Farhadi’s Oscar-winning  explorations of social conflicts and ethical dilemmas at A Separation (2011). Through thought-provoking  discussions and historical insights, participants will uncover the cinematic artistry and cultural significance  that have shaped perceptions of Iran at home and abroad.

Films should be watched ahead of time. Access information is below.

Week 1: Where’s the Friend’s House? (1987) - Directed by Abbas Kiarostami

Theme: Poetic Minimalism and Everyday Humanity

• Pre-Class: Watch the film. Reflect on how childhood is depicted and note any recurring visual motifs. Where’s the Friends’ House, by Abbas Kiarostami, available on Kanopy (accessed freely through a public library card) https://www.kanopy.com/en/product/11142152?vp=mmm

Week 2: Turtles Can Fly (2004) - Directed by Bahman Ghobadi

Theme: Resilience and the Marginalized Voice

• Pre-Class: Watch the film. Reflect on the intersection of war and childhood and how music is used in the film. Turtles Can Fly by Bahman Ghobadi. Watch freely on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3uawVIxPP

Week 3: A Separation (2011) - Directed by Asghar Farhadi

Theme: Ethics, Ambiguity, and the Art of Conflict

• Pre-Class: Watch the film. Focus on how the film presents opposing perspectives without judgment. A Separation, by Asghar Farhadi available on Amazon Prime freely