Septembers of Shiraz (2015)
Septembers of Shiraz (2015) is a historical drama based on the novel by Dalia Sofer. Set in the aftermath of the Iranian Revolution, the film follows a wealthy Jewish family torn apart as the father, Isaac Amin (Adrien Brody), is unjustly imprisoned under suspicion of espionage. His wife, Farnaz (Salma Hayek), struggles to navigate the growing hostility around them while trying to secure his release.
The film captures the paranoia and brutality of post-revolution Iran, emphasizing the shift from privilege to persecution. Brody delivers a haunting performance, portraying Isaac’s physical and psychological torment with raw intensity. Hayek, as the devoted yet terrified wife, brings depth to her role, embodying both resilience and desperation. The supporting cast, including Shohreh Aghdashloo, adds authenticity to the oppressive atmosphere.
Visually, the film effectively contrasts the beauty of pre-revolutionary Iran with the stark, oppressive tones of the new regime. However, the pacing occasionally feels uneven, and some characters lack depth beyond their immediate struggles. While the film is emotionally gripping, it does not fully explore the political nuances of the revolution, making it feel more like a personal survival story than a deeply political one.
Despite these minor shortcomings, Septembers of Shiraz is a powerful drama about loss, survival, and the fragility of privilege. It succeeds in highlighting the personal cost of political upheaval, making it a compelling, if somewhat restrained, adaptation of its source material.
