Watch Seven Servants

Seven Servants is a 1996 drama film that is a perfect example of a film that is both intellectual and intriguing at the same time. The movie was directed by Iranian filmmaker Dariush Mehrjui and stars stalwarts like Anthony Quinn, David Warner, and Sonja Kirchberger. The plot of the movie revolves around a high-society couple, Farrokh and Fereshteh, played by Quinn and Kirchberger, who have grown unhappy and discontented in their life characterized by luxury, comfort, and no real purpose. In this state of mind, they decide to embark on a journey of self-discovery by taking a road trip into the desert. With them, they take seven servants, who hold the key to their enlightenment.

The seven servants each come with their own unique characteristics, each adding their own flavor to the story. The movie never completely clarifies the nature of the servants, as their appearances and behaviors seem out of this world. This mystical air adds an extra layer of intrigue to the proceedings as it often seems that the servants are supposed to deliver more than just simple guidance to the couple.

Anthony Quinn delivers a strong performance as Farrokh, the man with everything who realizes he has nothing. Quinn effortlessly conveys the character's pain and disillusionment in his life without coming across as whiny or self-absorbed. Kirchberger is the perfect foil for Quinn's character, her aloof and irreverent attitude providing the necessary gravitas to her role as Fereshteh, the woman who is unhappy with her life but unsure how to fix it.

The other standout performance in the movie is from David Warner as Isfandyar, one of the seven servants. He does a great job of playing a character who is a little bit menacing, yet with an undercurrent of kindness and benevolence. His scenes where he interacts with Quinn's character are some of the best moments in the movie, as he dispenses advice that is both cryptic and profound.

The movie's setting is another of its strengths. The desert landscapes of Iran and Morocco serve as a stark contrast to the opulence and grandeur of the couple's previous life. The hauntingly beautiful vistas serve to emphasize the emptiness in the lives of the characters.

One of the themes of Seven Servants is the contrast between the haves and the have-nots. The couple has everything, yet they are still unhappy, while the servants have apparently very little, yet they are content and wise. The movie is a meditation on the nature of happiness and self-discovery that is not only insightful but also profound.

The cinematography of the movie is also beautifully done. Mehrjui's camera captures the stark, simple beauty of the desert landscape, with its rich colors and textures. The use of wide shots gives the film a meditative quality, while the close-ups of the characters' faces convey the emotions of the moment.

Overall, Seven Servants is a fascinating movie that is both thought-provoking and entertaining. The top-notch performances by the cast, the beautiful desert landscapes, and the philosophical musings on the nature of happiness and purpose all combine to create an engaging and rewarding cinematic experience.