Film Review: Life in Iran For Women Produces ‘Circumstance’

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CHICAGO – Power is a strange, corrupting force. Human beings manufacture power based on governments, money and religion. Oftentimes an element of humanity must be sacrificed to obtain power. In Iran, that element is women, as religious and governmental oppression conspire to create “Circumstance.”

Rating: 3.5/5.0

A fascinating exploration into culture, Circumstance uses an artistic force to counteract the religiosity and big brother maneuverings in that mysterious country and offers a glimpse into the challenges of suppressing natural urges. In highlighting the plight of lesbian lovers in Iran, the film also exposes the weaknesses of their power structure, as no one seems to be happy with the cultural atmosphere, even those who benefit from it the most.

Set in urban Tehran, Shireen (Sarah Kazemy) and Atafah (Nikohi Boosheri) are 16 year old schoolgirls who are best friends and look out for each other. Their escapades include sneaking around town to find the underground clubs that feature the taboo combination of modern music, alcohol and intermingling of the sexes. As their allegiance to each other grows, they also find themselves physically attracted to each other, and they consummate this attraction despite all laws and the religious state against them.

This “Circumstance” takes a turn Atafeh’s brother, Mehran (Reza Sixo Safai) begins to suspect something between the two, going so far as to have surveillance cameras in the house while the school mates are together. The girls behavior becomes more and more dangerous, and they are finally brought up on morality charges for participating in dubbing their voices onto the soundtrack of the American film “Milk.” Once under the watchful eye of the state, their lives can’t help but go in a different direction.

Continue reading for Patrick McDonald’s full review of “Circumstance”

Soul Sisters: Nikohl Boosheri as Afateh and Sarah Kazemy as Shireen in ‘Circumstance’ Photo credit: Roadside Attractions

Continue reading for Patrick McDonald’s full review of “Circumstance”