Writer/director Maryam Keshavarz’s new film explores the dynamics of the mother-daughter relationship amidst the backdrop of Persian culture. The Persian Version introduces us to Leila (Layla Mohammadi), a free-spirited Iranian American woman trying to find her way in New York City while feeling out of place among her large family, particularly her mother Shireen (Niousha Noor). When her ailing father Ali Reza (Bijan Daneshmand) receives word that he will finally get his long awaited heart transplant, the family mostly comes together to support him. Leila soon embarks upon a life changing event however that may finally bring her closer to her mother or tear them apart even further.
The Persian Version takes on examining the universal story of the eternal struggle between parent and child to understand one another, particularly when it comes to mothers and daughters. Leila and Shireen’s strained relationship is emblematic of the issue at the core of parents and children who cannot get on the same page as Leila, and children like her, often fail to understand what their parents have seen and experienced and thus, what it is that makes them who they are. Keshavarz employs well executed non-linear storytelling that works in service of this narrative and theme as we jump back and forth between the present and glimpses of both Leila and Shireen’s respective younger years to see how their relationship, or lack thereof has developed. The audience learns of Shireen’s tough past alongside Leila, becoming aware of the struggles and sacrifices she made on behalf of her family so that they could be successful. Aside from the quality pacing and storytelling that melds the film’s theme together, seeing Shireen’s story creates a quality emotional impact on the need for grace for one’s parents in reflecting on their personalities and how they raised us. Before any of us were born, our parents were just people experiencing and making their way through the world before taking on the responsibility of raising children. The Persian Version makes this point in way that builds empathy within the audience.
The Persian Version also stands out due to its vibrant production design that fits both the time period and the varied settings of the film’s time jumps, part of overall stellar design of the film. Moving from pre-revolution rural Iran to 1980s New York City, each setting feels accurate to the locale with costume design capturing the aesthetics of the time complete with bright, eye popping colors that make the film a pleasurable visual experience. The Persian Version is a charming film with a charming cast, led by Layla Mohammadi, that utilize a believable family chemistry and depiction of a strong, immigrant family to tell a universal tale about the struggle between parent and child for understanding. Its beautiful visuals and production design combine with the humor and drama of the story to create a quality moviegoing experience.
Image: Sony Pictures Classics
