The social and religious divisions of Iranian society are explored in this Oscar-winning drama which charts the unravelling of two families‘ lives after a chance event brings them together.
Nader and Simin are a middle-class couple whose marriage is on the brink of collapse. Simin wants to emigrate to give their eleven year old daughter a better future, but Nader refuses to leave his elderly father who is suffering from Alzheimer‘s disease. When a court refuses them a divorce Simin leaves and so Nader recruits a poor young woman, Razieh, to care for his father. After only a few days an argument erupts between Nader and Razieh with a momentary act of aggression changing both their lives forever.
As a court battle ensues we see how class divisions affect their access to justice. Razieh‘s hot tempered husband Hodjat cannot control his emotions long enough to reason with the judges, whilst Nader‘s eloquent handling of the situation allows him to manipulate the truth in his favour.
In the meantime we watch the struggle between Nader and Simin for the affections of their daughter, seeing how her loyalties are constantly tested by her father‘s emotional blackmail. In contrast Razieh and Hodjat try to maintain their honour whilst struggling under insurmountable debts. Ultimately it is Razieh whose conscience is tested as she must choose between her faith and saving her family from poverty.
Stunning performances from the entire cast and a rich script make this a completely absorbing film. All the characters have flaws and strengths, leaving no clear cut hero or villain. The movie depicts realistically the claustrophobia of a decaying relationship and the tangled choices people must make in the face of social restrictions. Modern Iran is brought to life in the bustle of the streets, whilst the intimate family drama plays out behind closed doors.
Despite its two hour length this movie seems to be over too soon, you‘ll find yourself rooting for the characters and wanting to know how their future turns out. A must see film.