Persepolis

It seems strange to be writing about an animated movie about a Muslim girl in a Christian website, but Persepolis is an intriguing coming-of-age film that transcends language, culture, and religion.

The movie portrays the younger life of Marjane Satrapi who grew up in Iran during the 1970s when the Shah stilled ruled the country. Her independent and freedom loving family show us a part of Iranian life that has largely disappeared due to the Khomeini revolution and religious oppression that takes place in Tehran today.

Marjane’s rebellious streak is celebrated throughout the movie, which is a testimony to the real strength of freedom-loving Iranian women. Her adventures and setbacks, her family’s love of life and tragedies are well told throughout the story. Especially touching is the relationship Marjane has with her spirited grandmother.

Marjane’s feelings about sharia, as well as the decadence of the West are shared throughout the movie. Her survival and tenacity to remain independent are expressed as a remarkable journey of self-discovery and liberty. Marjane’s heart is firmly attached to her family and the country that she loves, but her fierce independence means that she must live in a self-imposed exile in order to survive.

The black and white animation is beautifully drawn and creates a bye-gone world that is hard to believe existed before the ravages of the revolution. The music perfectly accompanies the action and makes the whole movie very entertaining and appealing.

Some adult themes of free love and sexual encounters are portrayed in the movie. Drugs and binge drinking are also featured. Some crude language is used and heavy criticisms of all kinds of religions are mentioned.

The dialogue is all in French, but the subtitles do not interfere with the action. I would give the movie 5 stars and it has well deserved the many film awards that it has received.

The movie has its own website where you can read other reviews, watch scenes, look at interviews and listen to the wonderful soundtrack.

Movie website: http://www.sonyclassics.com/persepolis/

Movie trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3PXHeKuBzPY

Interview with Marjane Satrapi http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6kRiyFb8lRk