By Roger Costa
One of the most courageous filmmakers working today, Iranian director Jafar Panahi continues his clandestine activity of making films, in response to the prohibition decreed by the Government, that bans him from making films. Following the masterpieces “Closed Curtain” and “Taxi”, Panahi returns with his third project made in secrecy, “3 Faces” an investigative dramedy centered in a small village filled with eccentric characters. Winner of the Best Screenplay Award at last year’s Cannes and one of the most celebrated films of the season, Panahi plays himself here along with actress Behnaz Jafari, as they drive hours from Tehran to reach a mountainous poor village where they must find answers for a suicidal video the actress has just got on her phone.
In the explicit video, a young aspiring actress opens up about the troubles of being a woman in her village, the prejudice and intolerance, and her expectations of entering the Conservatory for acting, before killing herself. Completely affected by the video, and the suicidal girl’s devotion to the actress, they arrive at the village consumed by anger, confusion and sorrow, stirring up a controversial and tumultuous investigation.
Through naturally sincere encounters with humble villagers, and truthful observations on its people’s culture, traditions, and conflicts, as well as their integrity and complicity, Panahi composes another powerful statement on human connections and rights, a thoughtful and humorous expose of the country’s intolerance towards women, arts and revolutionary perspectives. A brilliant work from a master of humanism, undoubtedly one of this year’s best films.
(A Kino Lorber Release. Opens Friday, March 8 at IFC Center NYC.)
Fonte: Brazilian Press