Iranian cinema has a long-standing tradition of crafting compelling narratives set within the confines of cars. Filmmaker Ali Ahmadzadeh joins this tradition with his daring fourth feature, “Critical Zone” (Mantagheye bohrani), a thought-provoking road movie that explores societal issues while navigating the labyrinthine streets of Tehran.
The film stands at the intersection of “Taxi Driver” and “Taste of Cherry,” combining the intense character study of the former with the meditative exploration of the latter. Ahmadzadeh’s creation has been met with acclaim, winning the prestigious Golden Leopard for best film at the Locarno Film Festival. Despite this success, the director was denied attendance at the premiere by Iranian authorities due to the film’s bold and socially vital themes.
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“Critical Zone” follows Amir (Amir Pousti), a drug dealer, as he embarks on a night-long journey delivering illicit substances to clients across Tehran. In this city of contrasts, the film dares to reveal the seedy underbelly rarely seen on screen, resembling Gaspar Noé’s provocative style more than the traditional Iranian cinema of Kiarostami. The gritty portrayal of disaffected youth during a period of revolt adds to the film’s socio-political relevance.
Ahmadzadeh skillfully employs the car as both narrative and thematic vehicle. The car scenes offer a cinematic dynamicity, allowing filmmakers to capture camera movement and frame compositions through windows and mirrors. The narrative is episodic, akin to Kiarostami’s “Taste of Cherry,” as Amir’s nocturnal journey takes audiences through encounters with various clients, each revealing a different facet of Tehran’s underbelly.
The car serves as a symbol of personal freedom and exploration within the confines of Iranian societal constraints. It becomes a sanctuary for filmmakers to comment on their country’s issues while retaining a degree of anonymity and safety. Amir’s journeys defy the law, risking his life in pursuit of a larger purpose. His drug dealing transforms into an act of resistance and courage rather than mere financial gain.
“Critical Zone” boldly juxtaposes illegal drug use with acts of kindness and humanity, challenging the inhumanity of the country’s harsh drug laws. The film’s creative exploration and subversion of these themes mark it as a unique entry in Iranian cinema. It falls in line with the likes of “Just 6.5,” criticizing drug problems while offering an alternative perspective on drug effects.
Visually, “Critical Zone” is a mesmerizing experience, with cinematographer Abbas Rahimi using red-filtered night visuals to create a dreamy atmosphere. The score by Milad Movahedi further enhances the film’s lyrical intensity, while sound design by Hasan Mahdavi immerses audiences in Amir’s experiences. As the film culminates in a hypnotic finale, the viewer is transported through Tehran’s streets in a sensory whirlwind, mirroring Amir’s own journey.
“Critical Zone” stands as an audacious and significant addition to Iranian cinema, offering a fresh perspective on societal issues while challenging norms. With its striking visuals, engaging narrative, and thought-provoking commentary, the film solidifies Ahmadzadeh as a bold voice in cinema. While “Critical Zone” was banned from its director’s homeland, its impact and resonance are sure to extend far beyond its premiere. As audiences eagerly await the opportunity to experience this daring road movie, it remains an exciting entry in the realm of contemporary filmmaking.