I gatti persiani

It is easy to become complacent and apathetic about the power of artistic expression in a pop culture soaked world such as our own. Director Bahman Ghobadi is a member of the third generation of Iranian New Wave cinema which is an important force in the cultural climate of the country. Far from being purely a commercial entity, Iranian cinema has become the main medium through which Iranians can access modernity and formulate a national identity outside proscriptive religious values. No One Knows About Persian Cats does not end optimistically and represents a generation of disenfranchised youth and talent. Many aspire to leave Iran, as, at present, this is their only option to achieve their artistic goals, but what the film does prove is that art, culture and music can thrive even under the most hostile of circumstances. SR

I must begin my review that the film's title is absolutely appropriate to the entire story. It's sad to know how talented people in Iran are forced to shelter their love for music and film. Throughout the film Negar and her band make various efforts to embark overseas in order to showcase their musical genius. This film clearly shows how anyone and everyone who is Iranian are looking for freedom outside Iran (even if they are blind). Iran not only restricts your talent but also your vision.

What I liked the most about the entire film-making is that sad and negative characters such as police and Islamic police were covered away from the screen which was not visual. Hence this film is in a clear war with the negative energy that lurks in Iran, which in all its free creative power pushes away the sinners (in this case the police or the Islamic police).

The film's soundtrack is excellent and worth listening to. The soundtrack covers all the genres from Rock to R&B. If you are a lover of international independent art film production, then you will appreciate all the hard work put in by the films cast and crew.

PS. I watched this film in Dubai (United Arab Emirates) and I was all alone in the cinema.

My score: 9 out of 10

Neeil Bhatia

This wonderful film feels more like half film and half documentary. We follow the main couple (Negar & Ashkan) as they hunt around to be able to get passports to enable them to get to London for a music gig and get away from Iran.

Their band plays Indie Rock music and they take us through the underground landscape in Iran showing us a metal band and other alternative bands who have to play their music hidden from the authorities (who otherwise would jail them and take away their instruments).

The music is surprisingly quite brilliant and you will empathise with the musicians. One of the best parts of the films is a rap song done by a local artist which takes us on a journey through life in Tehran showing us life at street level for people there. It was worth it alone.

As for acting and story, it's very good and simple. You see the frustration of all as they fight to live a free life in an atmosphere of fear. You can just feel the tension at times. Our leads really never over do it as could have been the risk in such a movie, but they are very ably assisted by a wonderful vast myriad of characters in the film which never seem to step on each others toes. It's like you have just met the whole family.

It's a terrific film and very enlightening. It's also very humbling, and one I would recommend you give a chance. Definitely more deserve to hear about the Persian Cats.

Once in a while comes along a movie which transcends the medium's boundaries and sets new standards. Bahman Ghobadi's remarkable and riveting new film is one of these rare examples. Made in only 17 days and without a permit, "Persian Cats" is guerrilla film making at its best. It is a faux-documentary, in style of Kiarostami's Close-Up & Panahi's Offside, about the underground music scene in Iran. It is really about the universal power of music and the passion of the youth which know no boundaries. We see that Iranian musicians go to any lengths to defy censorship and restrictions to play their music. They do not need concert halls. They play anywhere: from metro stations to cow sheds and for anyone who wants to listen. Music and lyrics for the young Iranians has become a desperate, but at the same time powerful, means of expression and communication with the world at large. The music played in the film is very powerful and its range is quite remarkable. We see bands playing jazz, pop, heavy metal, rap and singing in both Farsi and English. Ghobadi's film manages to convey all the passion, energy, anger and hope that is contained in these music. It is a brave, and undoubtedly controversial film (specially with the the two leads seeking asylum in the west and Kiarostami denouncing the film), made with so much passion that the viewers can not remain unmoved. It is masterfully directed and photographed and brilliantly edited. A masterpiece which is certain to become another milestone in the history of Iranian and world cinema. Absolutely unmissable.

Music speaks a universal language and is one that cannot be chained by any form of oppression. It is this fact that is highlighted ever so poignantly by Bahman Ghobadi, in this heart breaking story of the travails of the aspiring independent musicians of Iran. Effortlessly encompassing various genres like rock, jazz, metal and rap into its soundtrack, neatly blended in with breathtakingly beautiful camera-work of the many worlds in Tehran, it gives us a glimpse into the struggle of the youth seeking the freedom of expression. There is also a sense of frustration and anguish while watching the lengths to which the characters have to go to be able to pursue their passion, and that is sensitively captured in a way, that makes your heart go out for them. The performances are natural and unencumbered by the demands of formal acting, and the songs and lyrics are delightfully fresh and evocative. The story which though narrated in the documentary style, is never taxing at any point, and would transport even the most cynical of viewers on a journey of hope and a quest for freedom and release. But in the end, it is the elegant simplicity with which the director deals with a serious, complex issue that really makes this film stand out. This is truly good cinema at many levels and is certainly worth every minute of the time you spend with it.