Jan. 24: The Persian Version

Posted on Posted in Screenings

Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024
7 pm @ Galaxy Cinemas, Sault Ste. Marie, ON

Director: Maryam Keshavarz
USA 2023
English/Farsi; 107 minutes
Rated: R for language and some sexual references

A first generation American, Leila (Layla Mohammadi) defies the expectations of those around her, particularly her mother, Shireen (Niousha Noor). When Leila’s family gathers for her father’s heart transplant, a secret is revealed that catapults the estranged mother and daughter into an exploration of the past. As we’re transported back in time to Shireen’s childhood in Iran and her initial experiences in America, we gain an understanding of the loss and personal sacrifice that has come to inform her rocky relationship with Leila. A drama wrapped in comedy, The Persian Version is full of both heart and heartache.

A funny, soulful journey across language and time that also offers an illuminating look at the complexities of motherhood and identity. Candice Frederick, Huffington Post

 Maryam Keshavarz’s The Persian Version is an ebullient rule-breaker, and it does so in the name of the many women it wants to celebrate. Nick Allen, RogerEbert.com

Braids comedy and tragedy, vibrant aplomb and thoughtful soberness. Lisa Kennedy, Variety