The less said about the story of the sensational Iranian drama A Separation, the better, and I mean that in the best way possible. See, the film’s compelling and complicated plotline is a matter of debate among those who’ve seen it, and that’s just what its director, Asghar Farhadi wants. It’s for this reason that while you will hear mass praise for the film from critics in the coming weeks – as it nears its US theatrical opening and potential Oscar-nominee announcement – most of that talk will be decidedly vague.
Thankfully, unlike its international trailer, this US trailer holds its cards close to the vest, revealing little and favoring rave reviews instead. I myself declared in my review, “I was awe-struck by A Separation on every front,” and called it a “truly remarkable film.” In the intervening months, I have come to realize, it is undeniably one of the year’s best films. If you’re still not sold, check out the trailer courtesy of Apple:
Synopsis:
Set in contemporary Iran, A SEPARATION is a compelling drama about the dissolution of a marriage. Simin wants to leave Iran with her husband Nader and daughter Termeh. Simin sues for divorce when Nader refuses to leave behind his Alzheimer-suffering father. Her request having failed, Simin returns to her parents’ home, but Termeh decides to stay with Nader. When Nader hires a young woman to assist with his father in his wife’s absence, he hopes that his life will return to a normal state. However, when he discovers that the new maid has been lying to him, he realizes that there is more on the line than just his marriage.
A Separation opens in NY and LA December 30, 2011.
Are you intrigued by A Separation?