Watch Kelid

Kelid (1987) is an Iranian film directed by Mohammad Reza Aslani that deals with issues of identity, tradition, modernity, and social norms in a patriarchal society. The movie features Amir Mohammad Pourhassan, Mahnaz Ansarian, and Abbas Jafari as the main actors. The story revolves around an old man named Aqa Seyyed, who lives in a remote village and owns a key that symbolizes power and influence over the villagers. The key not only opens the doors of his house, but also the doors of the mosque, the cemetery, and the market. Everyone depends on him to gain access to these places.

Aqa Seyyed has a daughter named Pari, who is about to get married to a man from a wealthy family. However, Pari is not content with this arranged marriage and wants to pursue her dreams of becoming a teacher. She asks her father to let her go to the city and continue her education, but he refuses and insists that she follows tradition.

Pari's situation is not unique: other women in the village also face similar hardships and restrictions. The men in the village follow a strict code of conduct, and any deviation from it is seen as a threat to their honor and reputation. The women are expected to obey their fathers or husbands and are not allowed to express their opinions or desires.

Meanwhile, a young man named Akbar arrives in the village and starts working at Aqa Seyyed's house as a servant. He is different from the other men in the village and questions the patriarchal norms. Akbar is attracted to Pari and encourages her to pursue her dreams. He becomes a source of inspiration and hope for the women in the village.

The movie portrays the struggle of the women in the village to break free from the constraints of tradition and patriarchal society. They are caught between their desires and duties, and face different forms of oppression and discrimination. The men, on the other hand, are depicted as rigid and conservative, unwilling to change or adapt to the changing times.

As the story unfolds, the tension between tradition and modernity reaches a climax. The key, which represents the old order, becomes a symbol of oppression and domination. Aqa Seyyed realizes that the key has lost its power and significance, and decides to give it to his daughter as a gesture of reconciliation.

The climax of the movie is both emotional and symbolic, as it marks a turning point in the lives of the characters. Pari and Akbar leave the village to pursue their dreams, while the other women are encouraged to assert their rights and resist the patriarchal norms. The movie ends on a hopeful note, suggesting that change is possible and that the younger generation can challenge the status quo.

Kelid is a well-crafted and thought-provoking movie that explores important social and cultural issues in Iran. It is a critique of the patriarchal norms that limit the potential of women and stifle individual freedom. The movie is also a celebration of the power of love and friendship in a world that is often cruel and unjust.