Watch Like a Good Kid

Like a Good Kid is a heart-warming Iranian drama movie that tells the story of a young girl and her journey towards self-discovery and independence. The movie was directed and written by Arian Vazirdaftari, and it was released in 2018. The protagonist of the story is Sara, a devoted and obedient 18-year-old girl who lives with her parents and her little sister. She is an excellent student and always follows the rules set by her parents and the society. However, Sara's life takes a drastic turn when she meets a young boy named Hamed, who comes from a very different background than her.

From the beginning, it is evident that Hamed is different than anyone she has ever met. He is independent, confident, and doesn't care about societal norms. Despite the initial shock, Sara gradually becomes attracted to Hamed's free-spirited nature and starts to question her own beliefs.

As Sara becomes more and more involved with Hamed, her relationship with her parents starts to deteriorate. They become increasingly strict and controlling, in an attempt to keep her from seeing Hamed. Sara tries to convince her parents that Hamed is a good person, but they don't listen to her.

Amidst all the family drama, Sara's friend Maryam invites her to her birthday party. Unlike the intellectual gatherings that Sara is used to attending, Maryam’s party is wild and rebellious. It’s here where Sara sees the stark contrast between the two worlds - one that is bound by social norms, and the other which cherishes freedom.

With the weight of societal expectations and parental pressure weighing heavily on her shoulders, Sara is forced to make the biggest decision of her life - to either continue to live a life of compliance or take a leap of faith towards true independence.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this movie is the authentic and relatable portrayal of the inner workings of a teenager's mind. Sara's character is brilliantly crafted to depict the internal struggle that almost every teenager goes through at some point in their lives.

Another standout quality of Like a Good Kid is the excellent performances by the cast. Negar Abedi delivers an outstanding performance as Sara, showcasing her range and depth as an actor. Shadi Karamroudi and Yazdan Kokabi Saba also deserve a special mention for their convincing portrayal of Sara's restrictive and conservative parents.

The movie's cinematography is also noteworthy, capturing the beauty of Tehran's streets and the depth of the emotions on the characters' faces. The warm and vibrant color palette adds a layer of emotional depth to the movie, giving it a unique charm.

In conclusion, Like a Good Kid is a touching coming-of-age movie that deals with themes of teenage rebellion, family dynamics, and societal norms. The movie's message is clear - that we must all find our own path towards true freedom and happiness, regardless of what societal norms dictate. The excellent direction, screenplay, and performances make this movie a must-watch for anyone who loves thoughtful, character-driven stories.