Watch Septembers of Shiraz

Set in Iran in the aftermath of the 1979 revolution, Septembers of Shiraz is a gripping drama that adapts the eponymous best-selling novel by Dalia Sofer. The film tells the story of a wealthy Jewish family who suddenly find themselves swept up in the chaos and upheaval of the Islamic Revolution. Directed by Wayne Blair, the movie boasts an impressive cast led by Salma Hayek, Adrien Brody, and Shohreh Aghdashloo. At the center of the story is Isaac Amin (Brody), a successful jewelry dealer and father of two living in the city of Shiraz. Amin is well-known and respected among his peers and clients, but his comfortable existence is quickly disrupted when a group of revolutionary guards comes to his doorstep and arrests him, accusing him of being a Zionist spy. His wife, Farnez (Hayek), is left to protect their family and navigate the dangerous new reality they find themselves in. As the story unfolds, we witness the brutality and senselessness of the revolution as Isaac is subjected to horrific treatment in prison, and his family's assets are seized by the new regime. Farnez, who had only a cursory knowledge of her husband's business dealings, learns that she will have to rely on her wits and determination if she wants to keep her family safe from harm. Meanwhile, their young daughter, Shirin (Ariana Molkara) copes with her father's absence and the unexpected changes in her life by lashing out and rebelling against her mother's strict rules. One of the most striking aspects of the movie is the portrayal of the juxtaposition between the opulence of the Amin family's estate and the life-threatening deprivation and violence taking place outside their gates. Blair uses skillful camerawork and sound design to create a suffocating and tense atmosphere as we watch the characters' lives unravel. The score, by Mark Isham, is haunting and evocative, capturing both the sweeping beauty of Shiraz and the anguish of the Amins. While the film touches on themes like class, race, and religion, it does so without ever feeling preachy or heavy-handed. The script, by Hanna Weg, deftly weaves together the personal and political, showing how one family's tragedy is emblematic of a larger national tragedy. Brody's performance is particularly noteworthy as his character endures physical and psychological torture, and the actor imbues Isaac with a palpable sense of fear and desperation. Hayek, too, proves her acting chops as she transforms from a pampered housewife into a fierce and cunning protector of her family. The supporting cast is also exceptional, with Shohreh Aghdashloo delivering a memorable performance as Habibeh, the family's long-time housekeeper who has her own secrets and struggles. Navid Negahban, who plays a former friend and associate of Isaac's, also stands out in his scenes with Brody, showing the pain and confusion of someone who's caught between two worlds. As the movie builds to its climax, we see the characters face impossible choices and sacrifices, and we are left wondering if there can ever be true justice in a world that is driven by fear and violence. Septembers of Shiraz is a testament to the power of storytelling and a reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding during times of upheaval and strife.