In The Persian Version, director Maryam Keshavarz invites us into a world where culture clashes, family secrets, and self-discovery converge in a vibrant, sassy, and smart film that celebrates womanhood, immigrants, and the intricate dance of mother-daughter relationships. This cinematic gem weaves together an engaging narrative with a kaleidoscope of visuals and storytelling techniques, presenting a story that goes far beyond the confines of a mere family conflict drama.
At its heart, the film revolves around the indomitable Leila, portrayed with a delightful effervescence by Layla Mohammadi. She’s the only daughter in an Iranian-American family of eight sons, whose roots trace back to the Iranian brain drain, an era when skilled professionals sought refuge in the U.S. to offset the wartime shortages. Leila is a cultural chameleon, too Persian to fully blend in with her American friends and too American to convincingly pass for Persian in post-Revolutionary Iran. The film’s journey begins with Leila attending a costume party in New York, donning a “burk-ini” – a bikini with a niqab – a clever symbol of her perpetual outsider status.
The movie’s early moments captivate the audience with a delightful kookiness that sets a unique tone. A lively singing-dancing set piece, enhanced by animation and accompanied by the catchy tunes of Cyndi Lauper, offers a whimsical contrast to the deeper themes that will soon unfold. This clever blend of snappy visuals and inventive storytelling devices enriches the narrative, engaging the audience from the start. Leila’s life takes an unexpected turn at the costume party when she has an unexpected encounter with a British actor, portrayed by Tom Byrne, who arrives in costume. This unexpected tryst results in an unforeseen pregnancy, a revelation that sends shockwaves through her conservative family. It’s just one of the many factors that ignite conflicts between Leila and her headstrong mother, Shireen, portrayed with conviction by Niousha Noor.
The film ingeniously shifts between time periods, keeping the audience on their toes as it unravels a closely guarded family secret. The narrative catapults us back to the 1960s in Iran, where we witness a young Shireen marrying her older physician husband and embarking on a journey to a remote village. The unexpected turns of life in this distant setting mold her into the resilient woman she becomes, the first of two transformative crises in her life. Maryam Keshavarz, who injects her own experiences into the story, skillfully navigates the intricate web of cultural and generational conflicts. Her semi-autobiographical dramedy captures the essence of family dynamics, cross-cultural tensions, and sexual ambiguity. The film’s innovative use of pop culture references and occasional fourth-wall breaks, rather than being distracting, adds a charming layer of authenticity to the story.
Photo credit: Yiget Eken. Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics.
The Persian Version doesn’t just settle for exploring the tensions between Leila and her family. It delves deep into the themes of self-discovery, individuality, and the way our roots shape us. Leila’s struggles as a first-generation immigrant child are portrayed with a blend of grit, humor, and sass that is as endearing as it is relatable. It’s a reminder that no matter where we come from, we’re all just doing the best we can with the tools we have. The film masterfully highlights the theme that it’s often easier to blame our mothers for our shortcomings and failures in life. Yet, as the story unfolds, Leila begins to see beyond her mother’s sharp criticisms and discovers the sacrifices Shireen has made, admiring her determination and work ethic. The evolving relationship between mother and daughter becomes a touching parallel that resonates with the audience.
Photo credit: Yiget Eken. Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics.
The film isn’t just a tale of clashing cultures and generations. It’s a celebration of womanhood, a testament to the enduring strength of immigrants, and a beautiful exploration of the ever-complex mother-daughter relationship. With its candy-colored cinematography, witty humor, and lively dance numbers, it’s a fun and visually captivating romp through the intricacies of family dynamics and the satisfaction that comes from staying true to oneself.
The Persian Version is a compelling and emotionally resonant cinematic journey that meticulously dissects the intricacies of motherhood, cultural identity, and the dynamics of familial relationships. With its innovative storytelling and memorable characters, the film leaves an indelible mark, exalting the strength and resilience of women across generations. Maryam Keshavarz has meticulously crafted an engaging and accessible narrative that transcends cultural boundaries, making it a compelling choice for all those who appreciate heartfelt storytelling and relatable characters.
The Persian Version is currently playing in select theaters courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics.
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The Persian Version is a compelling and emotionally resonant cinematic journey that meticulously dissects the intricacies of motherhood, cultural identity, and the dynamics of familial relationships.
Codie Allen is a passionate trans and queer film critic and entertainment writer based in Orlando, FL. A Rotten Tomatoes-approved critic, Dorian Awards member, and CACF member, they also contribute to The Curb and InSession Film. When they’re not writing about films, you can find them sipping way too much tea and listening to Taylor Swift.
