Close to Kiarostami (2000)

Close to Kiarostami Poster
Original Title: در نزدیکی کیارستمی

A documentary that focuses on Abbas Kiarostami's cinematic philosophy talking to himself and other figures, and also seeks the opinion about his works both inside and outside his homeland.

Intro
"Close to Kiarostami" (2000) is a documentary about the well-known Iranian movie director Abbas Kiarostami. The documentary is an intimate, behind-the-scenes take a look at Kiarostami during his film-making procedure and his daily life, offering audiences a more in-depth understanding of the director's vision and viewpoint towards movie theater.

Director's Approach
The director of "Close to Kiarostami", Iranian film critic and scholar Mehrnaz Saeed-Vafa, utilizes a combination of interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and analyses of Kiarostami's films to create an in-depth picture of the well-known auteur. Saeed-Vafa, who has known Kiarostami personally, presents an honest and plain take a look at the Iranian filmmaker, consequently providing a really enhancing and unique viewing experience.

Kiarostami's Philosophy
The documentary reveals Kiarostami's special viewpoint about filmmaking, including his fascination with the reality and artificiality of cinema. He is seen discussing his belief that movies can provide fact and authenticity, despite frequently being based on scripts and performed by actors. The motivation he draws from daily life, common in the majority of his films, is also discussed extensively.

Visual Storytelling
"Close to Kiarostami" shows Kiarostami's unique technique to storytelling, often depending on visuals rather than discussion. Kiarostami is popular for his minimalist visual and dependence on natural landscapes, which adds to a distinctive cinematic language that sets him apart from his contemporaries.

Personal Life
In addition to shedding light on Kiarostami's craft, the documentary delves into his personal life, supplying viewers a look of his individual interests and way of life. His love for poetry, painting, and photography, which typically influence his movies, are explored. One can really appreciate the depth and diversity of the director's creative professors and the richness they bring to his cinema.

Conclusion
"Close to Kiarostami" (2000) ultimately paints a portrait of an excellent filmmaker who deeply values credibility and simpleness in his works. It highlights the paradoxes in Kiarostami's technique to filmmaking, where he looks for fact in artificiality and uses simpleness to show intricacy. Through informative interviews, uncommon video footage, and a thoughtful analysis of his films, the documentary provides a special, extensive check out Kiarostami's art and life, making it an important look for anyone interested in understanding the acclaimed director much better.

Top Cast

  • Abbas Kiarostami (small)
    Abbas Kiarostami
    as Self
  • Theo Angelopoulos (small)
    Theo Angelopoulos
    as Self
  • Bernardo Bertolucci (small)
    Bernardo Bertolucci
    as Self
  • Juliette Binoche (small)
    Juliette Binoche
    as Self
  • Homayoun Ershadi (small)
    Homayoun Ershadi
    as Self
  • Youssef Chahine (small)
    Youssef Chahine
    as Self
  • Michel Piccoli (small)
    Michel Piccoli
    as Self