Abbas Kiarostami

Iranian film director, screenwriter and producer Abbas Kiarostami embraced the idea that the reality of others can often serve as some of the most powerful, impactful material for our consumption.

A large portion of “Through the Olive Trees” is spent watching the magic of cinema unfold in the village. Between a crowded casting call and peeks at interactions between cast and crew while onset, the film allows viewers to feel involved in the creation of what they’re watching. 

But nothing says awkward and intrusive better than the 1990s. If there’s anything to note about “Homework,” it’s the conflict of not wanting to intrude on these children’s lives, but adoring their faces on screen as they appear in sweaters with fresh haircuts.

Yet for all the simplicity of this premise, Abbas Kiarostami, in classic fashion, never allows the viewer to settle into a sense of complacent comfort.

Despite the darker premise of the film, “Taste of Cherry” surprisingly celebrates life and its little joys.

Early works of famed filmmakers during the beginning of their career are always interesting to see. Although ‘The Colours’ is an educational video made for teaching young children about hues, the short film can also be seen as a portending testament to Kiarostami’s eye as a filmmaker.

“Close-Up” is a breathtaking, often painful, observation of the distinction between “art as passion” and “art as a career.”

What do you get when you cross an Iranian filmmaker, French co-producers and an all-Japanese cast? Thankfully, it’s not a punchline, but it’s not exactly a tour de force either.