Leila’s Brothers (2022)

Leila’s Brothers is a 2022 Iranian drama film directed, written and co-produced by Saeed Roustayi.

At the age of 40, Leila has devoted her entire life to caring for her parents and four brothers. The family constantly engages in heated arguments and grapples with overwhelming debts in a country under the weight of international economic sanctions. With her brothers struggling to make ends meet, Leila devises a plan: to establish a family business that could lift them out of poverty. Amidst their desperate need for financial support, Leila discovers a family heirloom secretly hidden by their father, Esmail. It was intended as an offering for him to ascend to the esteemed position of Patriarch, the highest honor in Persian tradition. This revelation sets off chaos within the already fragile family dynamics. As Esmail’s health declines, the actions of each family member propel them inexorably toward a looming implosion.

Following the success of “La Loi de Téhéran,” Saeed Roustaee, a name to remember, reaffirms his position as one of the most talented filmmakers of the moment, akin to the likes of Park Chan-wook or Bong Joon-ho. His work is a meticulously crafted masterpiece, especially notable for his directorial prowess in handling crowd scenes, showcased previously in “The Law of Tehran” and skillfully exhibited here (in scenes such as the factory strike and the wedding).

Review:

Saeed Roustae presents a genuine family saga, both tragic and poignant, as Roustaee aptly describes, paying homage to the courage and wisdom of women, all captured with finesse. While the ensemble cast delivers extraordinary performances, it’s Taraneh Alidoosti who dominates the film—hence the title, “Leila and her brothers.”

The movie stands out as one of the best films of 2022, despite not winning the Palme d’Or at Cannes. The narrative resonates well with those closely following the tumultuous events in Iran, offering a simple storyline with rich character development and layers of complexity that unfold as the plot progresses. It’s a realistic portrayal without exaggeration, illustrating the societal struggles and calling for a revolution in the name of womanhood, life, and freedom to overcome deeply ingrained beliefs and pains.

The movie metaphorically depicts the head of the family as symbolic of the person leading Iran, more concerned with external matters than the welfare of his own people.

The film captivates with its portrayal of the struggles faced by the people of Iran, maintaining suspense from the opening scene to the final moments. While Navid’s performance is commendable, Tarane’s acting is truly outstanding, seamlessly transitioning between happiness and sadness with raw and genuine emotions. Her portrayal of a woman navigating life’s harsh realities is remarkable, making the audience empathize and root for her throughout.

Beyond the stellar performances, the movie effectively sheds light on the social problems confronting people in Iran, offering a profound experience that prompts reflection on societal privileges. In conclusion, this movie is a thought-provoking and captivating journey, leaving a lasting impression and highly recommended for those seeking a cinematic experience with substance.