Blending the simplicity of everyday life with profound philosophical undertones and conveying them through cinema is an art, and Iranian maestro Abbas Kiarostami is a virtuoso of that craft.
Abbas Kiarostami was born on 22 June 1940 in Tehran and is revered as the poet of Iranian cinema.
His work transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, touching upon the universal aspects of human existence.
Often characterised by minimalist storytelling and an acute observation of life's subtleties, Abbas Kiarostami’s films invite viewers to ponder deeper questions about reality, perception, and the essence of humanity.
Art imitates life
Kiarostami’s early exposure to art came through painting and graphic design, fields he explored during his education at the University of Tehran.
These artistic roots are evident in his films, where every frame is meticulously composed, resembling a carefully crafted painting.
His work is also influenced by Persian poetry, particularly the writings of Rumi and Hafez, whose philosophical and mystical themes often permeate his narratives.
Kiarostami's international breakthrough came with the Koker Trilogy, comprising "Where Is the Friend's House?" (1987), "Life, and Nothing More..." (1992), and "Through the Olive Trees" (1994).
These films, set in the rural village of Koker, explore themes of friendship, resilience, and the human spirit amidst adversity.
"Where Is the Friend's House?" tells the simple yet poignant story of a young boy's quest to return his friend's notebook, showcasing Kiarostami's ability to find profound meaning in mundane events. "Life, and Nothing More..." and "Through the Olive Trees" blur the lines between fiction and reality, with Kiarostami casting real-life survivors of the 1990 Rudbar earthquake to tell their stories.
Abbas Kiarostami's Close-Up (1990)
This approach not only highlights the resilience of the human spirit but also challenges traditional narrative structures, encouraging viewers to question the nature of storytelling itself.
His films are renowned for their unique cinematic language - employing long takes, minimal dialogue, and natural lighting to create a sense of realism and immersion.
This style is particularly evident in "Taste of Cherry" (1997), which won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.
Reality blends into reel
One of Kiarostami's most innovative contributions to cinema is his exploration of the boundaries between reality and fiction.
In "Close-Up" (1990), he tells the true story of a man who impersonated the famous director Mohsen Makhmalbaf. Kiarostami blurs the lines between documentary and narrative film, using real-life individuals to reenact their own experiences.
This technique not only questions the nature of truth and identity but also showcases Kiarostami's fascination with the power of cinema to shape and reflect reality.
Abbas Kiarostami's Close-Up (1990)
In the later stages of his career, Kiarostami continued to push the boundaries of cinematic expression. "Certified Copy" (2010), starring Juliette Binoche, marks his first feature outside of Iran and delves into themes of authenticity and replication in art and relationships. "Like Someone in Love" (2012), set in Japan, explores the complexities of human connections and the illusions that often accompany them.
Kiarostami's work garnered international acclaim, earning numerous awards and recognitions.
Despite facing censorship and political challenges in Iran, he remained a steadfast advocate for artistic freedom and integrity.
His contributions to cinema were not limited to directing; he was also a talented photographer and poet, often using these mediums to complement and enrich his filmmaking.
Silhouette on cinema
Abbas Kiarostami passed away on 4 July 2016 yet the impact on cinema is profound and enduring.
His approach to storytelling, characterized by its simplicity and depth, has influenced filmmakers around the world.
Directors such as Martin Scorsese, Jean-Luc Godard, and Akira Kurosawa have praised his work, acknowledging the quiet power and poetic beauty of his films.
Kiarostami's legacy is also evident in the new generation of Iranian filmmakers who continue to explore complex social and philosophical themes within the framework of everyday life.
Abbas Kiarostami's Close-Up (1990)
His films serve as a testament to the power of cinema to transcend cultural and political boundaries, offering a universal language that speaks to the shared human experience.
Abbas Kiarostami's cinematic journey is a testament to his genius as a storyteller and his profound understanding of the human condition.
Through his minimalist yet deeply philosophical approach, he has crafted a body of work that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
His films are not merely visual experiences; they are invitations to contemplate the beauty and complexity of life itself.
