Summary of “Close-Up” by Abbas Kiarostami

One-line Summary:

“Close-Up” is a mesmerizing Iranian docufiction film directed by Abbas Kiarostami that blurs the line between reality and fiction, exploring themes of identity, art, and the power of storytelling.

Main Cast and Crew:

• Director: Abbas Kiarostami
• Writer: Abbas Kiarostami
• Key Actors: Hossain Sabzian (as himself), Mohsen Makhmalbaf (as himself), Abolfazl Ahankhah (as the Judge)
• Music Director: None (uses natural sounds and dialogue)
• Director of Photography: Ali Reza Zarrindast
• Producers: Abbas Kiarostami, Ali Reza Zarrin

Plot:

“Close-Up” is based on a true story and revolves around Hossain Sabzian, a cinephile who impersonates the famous Iranian director Mohsen Makhmalbaf to gain the trust of a family. Sabzian convinces the Ahankhah family that he will cast them in his upcoming film. However, when the family discovers his deception, they report him to the authorities, leading to his arrest.

The film blurs the line between documentary and fiction by incorporating real-life events and using the actual people involved in the case to portray themselves. Kiarostami masterfully weaves together reenactments, interviews, and courtroom footage to create a thought-provoking narrative that challenges the boundaries of truth and fiction.

Themes and Motifs:

“Close-Up” explores several central themes, including identity, art, and the power of storytelling. The film raises questions about the nature of truth and the role of cinema in shaping our perception of reality. Kiarostami delves into the idea that storytelling can be a powerful tool for both self-expression and deception, blurring the lines between fact and fiction.

The motif of mirrors and reflections is prevalent throughout the film, symbolizing the characters’ search for identity and the blurred boundaries between their real selves and the roles they play. Kiarostami uses this motif to highlight the complex nature of human identity and the transformative power of art.

Reception and Legacy:

“Close-Up” was met with critical acclaim upon its release in 1990. It won numerous awards, including the FIPRESCI Prize at the Cannes Film Festival and the Grand Prize at the Locarno International Film Festival. The film’s innovative blend of documentary and fiction influenced a generation of filmmakers and solidified Abbas Kiarostami’s reputation as one of the most influential directors in Iranian cinema.

The legacy of “Close-Up” extends beyond its critical success. It paved the way for the Iranian New Wave movement and inspired a new wave of Iranian filmmakers to explore the boundaries of cinema. The film’s unique approach to storytelling and its exploration of truth and fiction continue to resonate with audiences and filmmakers worldwide.

Recommendation:

“Close-Up” is a must-watch for cinephiles and anyone interested in exploring the power of cinema as an art form. It challenges traditional narrative structures and invites viewers to question the nature of truth and the role of storytelling. The film’s captivating blend of reality and fiction, combined with Kiarostami’s masterful direction, makes it a truly mesmerizing cinematic experience.

Memorable Quote:

“Reality and dreams are mixed up in my films. I don’t know anymore where one ends and the other begins.” – Abbas Kiarostami