Arsenal Filmatelier for School Children: Abbas Kiarostami
As part of the Abbas Kiarostami Retrospective, the Arsenal Filmatelier presents moderated film program for those in the 7th grade and upwards with two early works by the Iranian director. Adolescents in pre-revolutionary Tehran are at the heart of both films, who master their lives almost completely alone despite various adversities. The poetic feature TAJROBEH (Experience, 1973) shows a 14-year-old who works for a photographer. The small amount of dialogue, the observant camera, the black-and-white images, and the focus on one character allow the audience to look freely at a plot which only unfolds slowly. For its part, the color film LEBASSI BARAYE AROSSI (A Wedding Suit, 1976) narrates a dramatic conflict between three teenagers who work in the same building. The plot pivots on a tailor-made suit, which plunges the boys into a tense web of relationships. Please register in advance.
arsenal 3: Abbas Kiarostami
New digital restoration: "De Cierta Manera" (One Way or Another)
DE CIERTA MANERA describes life in a poor neighborhood in post-revolutionary Cuba. The values and role models of those living there haven’t changed since the construction of new housing; a new society cannot be created on demand. Yolanda, an elementary school teacher, and Mario, who works in an omnibus factory, become a couple. While Yolanda strives for a pedagogical approach that integrates marginalized students, causing a conflict with her colleagues and the parents, Mario finds it difficult to let go of patriarchal role models. Their contrary ideals also put the relationship to the test, while at the same time critically reflecting the process of social transformation.