Film Forum is thrilled to announce the US theatrical premiere of “Terrestrial Verses,” a compelling drama directed by Ali Asgari and Alireza Khatami, on Friday, April 26. This film emerges as a bold inquiry into the lives of ordinary Iranians navigating the complexities of society under authoritarian rule, offering a glimpse into the resilience and subtle acts of defiance that mark the human spirit.
Set against the backdrop of Tehran, “Terrestrial Verses” unfolds through nine single-take vignettes, each spotlighting a different individual’s encounter with the invisible yet palpable hand of bureaucratic control. From a new father grappling with the religious criteria for his son’s name, to a young rideshare driver fighting to reclaim her impounded car for a hijab violation caught on camera, the film presents a tapestry of life that is both stark and deeply human. It showcases the challenges faced by ordinary citizens, such as a man with poem tattoos navigating licensing hurdles, and an elderly woman’s plea to the police for the return of her cherished dog.
The narrative is a masterful portrayal of the absurdity and hypocrisy inherent in authoritarian governance, highlighting the everyday struggles and the quiet, yet powerful, defiance of individuals against oppressive forces. “Terrestrial Verses” not only captures the pulse of Iranian society but also pays homage to the country’s rich cinematic and poetic heritage. The film’s title nods to the influential work of Forough Farrokhzad, a pioneering filmmaker and poet whose documentary “The House Is Black” signaled the advent of the Iranian New Wave. Farrokhzad’s poetry, exploring women’s experiences and banned post-Islamic Revolution, resonates through the film’s themes and narrative.
Having premiered at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival as the sole Iranian film selected that year, “Terrestrial Verses” has since made waves across the international film circuit, including AFI Fest and the International Film Festival Rotterdam, garnering critical acclaim. However, in a poignant echo of the film’s themes, co-director Ali Asgari faces a ban from leaving Iran and filmmaking by Iranian authorities, with several cast members also facing confiscations, highlighting the ongoing challenges artists face within the country.
“Terrestrial Verses” stands as a testament to the power of cinema to challenge, to question, and to bear witness to the human condition under duress.
Its US premiere at Film Forum presents a unique opportunity for audiences to engage with this prescient work, offering insights into Iranian society’s undercurrents of resistance and the indomitable spirit of its people. Join us for a cinematic experience that promises not just to entertain but to provoke thought and foster dialogue on issues of freedom, creativity, and resilience in the face of adversity.