The Seed of the Sacred Fig
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (out of 5 stars)
As tensions continue around the world and throughout the Middle East, celebrated director Mohammad Rasoulof (There Is No Evil) takes audiences into his birth country of Iran for his latest family drama. As the revolutionary actions of students occur around the country against the theocratic regime, one family must determine how to respond to both sides of the protests as it forcefully enters their home.
On the day that Iman (Missagh Zareh) is assigned to his new role as an investigating judge in the Revolutionary Court in Tehran, protests are occurring throughout the nation's streets. Initially, his wife Najmeh (Soheila Golestani) sees this promotion as the opportunity for their family to move up on the social ladder and even a better apartment for the family of four. Until her daughters bring home a friend who has been part of the protests and she begins to fear for her family. Especially when Iman allows a gun to be brought into their home for protection from those who might target the family for his role in prosecuting protesters. The tensions within the tight knit household remain at a dull roar until Iman’s gun goes missing and everyone begins accusing one another for the weapon’s disappearance.
Throughout this fictitious account of events during the Mahsa Amini protests of 2022–2023, Mohammad Rasoulof incorporates real-life social media posts to make the film take on a new reality. As the cultural and generational clashes commence throughout the film, the commentary is given a new face with the familial depiction of how this affects day to day life. Soheila Golestani is captivating and embodies the heart of a mother who only wants the best for her children and marriage. Her performance is challenged and complemented by Mahsa Rostami as Rezvan and Setareh Maleki as Sana who must balance rebellion and admiration for their mother throughout this roller coaster ride of political unrest.
Interestingly, Missagh Zareh was the unexpected highlight of the story as it must portray the loving father who is thrown into a problematic work atmosphere. Yet, must do all he can to keep his family safe while having to determine if his wife and daughters are at the heart of his greatest difficulties. As he descends into paranoia and mental anguish, his role becomes the most tragic and terrifying component of the screenplay. Along with the unknown stress amongst the cast, this was secretly filmed in Iran for an inexplicable element that added to the overall experience.
The Seed of the Sacred Fig has been nominated for an Academy Award in 2024. Deservedly, Rasoulof has delivered a masterclass in Persian cinema that will keep audiences glued to the screen throughout the 168-minute run time. It is a fascinating lesson in Iran's politics and society and an entertaining family drama for the avid cinema goer.
REEL DIALOGUE: How far are people willing to go for their convictions?
Even without fully understanding each historical aspect of the Mahsa Amini protests, it is hard not to appreciate the convictions and beliefs of those involved in the protest. Being willing to sacrifice income, persecution of the ruling class and potential time in prison looking for their conviction would cause anyone to pause and think.
For Christians this standard is set by the leader of this belief system in stating “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it." (Matthew 16:24)
Those of faith and not all can take a stand for their beliefs, but are you willing to risk it all? If not, what is the limit of your convictions?
If you would like to discuss the themes of this film, contact us at Third Space. We would love to chat with you about this and more.
