Polaris (2017)

Movie Overview
"Polaris" is a drama/thriller film directed by Soudabeh Moradian. Its plot focuses on concerns of love, war, and individual battles. Released in 2017, it stars Bahram Radan and Alicja Bachleda, who display good performances.

Main Plot
The movie follows the story of a troubled couple, an Iranian guy named Baba (Bahram Radan) and an American woman called Christie (Alicja Bachleda). Baba is a well-known reporter who, in spite of living away from his homeland in the United States, is still dogged by the trauma of war he experienced throughout his uprighting in Iran. On the other hand, his partner Christie, a respectable photographer, assists in telling Baba's tale through her photos even though she is likewise handling emotional fights of her own. These 2 are in a long-distance relationship which postures extra challenges.

Presentation of War and PTSD
"Polaris" provides an in-depth representation of the after-effects of war, illustrating the struggle of dealing with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Baba's character embodies the struggle of people fighting deeply embedded war injury, offering a practical and raw view of the fragility of human minds exposed to extreme conditions. At the exact same time, it depicts the challenges faced by individuals like Christie who are trying to support loved ones managing PTSD.

Meaning and Cinematography
The cinematography of the film elegantly records the knotted feelings of the characters. Polaris, also known as the North Star, symbolizes instructions and guidance in the middle of the darkness, which is used metaphorically to the couple's relationship in the movie. Regardless of the chaos in their individual lives, they persist in their endeavor to make their relationship work and discover their course, their 'Polaris'.

Last Act and Resolution
In the end, the film delicately provides the struggle to overcome PTSD, without using an overly simple resolution. Baba's war embers continue to burn and Christie, despite her large decision to help, fails to find a simple service. The story concludes on a note of uncertainty however also a tip of optimism, where the possibility of healing lies at the end of their tumultuous journey.

Critical Appraisal
"Polaris" supplies a practical and humanistic representation of PTSD and long-distance relationships, with commendable performing and sophisticated cinematography. The raw psychological battles amplify the film's story, making it a compelling watch. Nevertheless, some viewers may discover it slowly paced. Despite this, the credibility and depth of the characters intertwine with the gripping storyboard to stimulate viewers' empathy.

Conclusion
"Polaris" is an intense drama-thriller that uncovers the emotional toll of war and trauma on an individual's psyche and relationships. The movie's in-depth representation of PTSD layered with the complexities of long-distance relationships makes it an extremely emotional and thought-provoking watch. In spite of the heaviness of its topic, the film elegantly balances discomfort and hope, sparking a stimulate of optimism even amidst misery. It provides an extensive message about the power of love and the human spirit's durability in the face of frustrating trials.

Top Cast