Directed by Abbas Kiarostami
It is good to step out of our comfort zone once in a while, and this Iranian movie does just that. It defies the expectations of audiences used to Hollywood cinema as well as European and fine art films. The plot of the movie takes us to an ancient village, where a group of engineers arrive to film a mourning ritual for an old woman who inexplicably keeps staying alive. Only one of the engineers is ever shown on screen, and he is forced to stay behind and participate in the everyday life of the village. The only connection the remote village has to the outside world is via cell phone, with reception available only on the higher ground. The movie makes much use of symbolism and hidden meanings because of censorship in Iran. It received numerous nominations and awards, and Kiarostami is one of the acclaimed giants of contemporary cinema. A great movie, especially to discuss or analyze in a movie group.