Polaris

Polaris is a moving and realistic portrayal of an Iranian-American war photographer struggling with PTSD. The production value and cinematography is very high, taking you to locations domestic and abroad, while the acting and direction help you get into the story, avoiding overt politics. Overall a great war and diaspora drama, not often told from the perspective of a female protagonist.

With beautiful imagery and inherent complexity, this film is mesmerizing. Soudabeh Moradian really brings us into the world of ptsd through a female perspective. It is a very forward thinking piece about a relationship and personal struggle told through the point of view of a woman. I appreciated the power of female bonding that I experienced in this film. I found it to be compelling, relevant and refreshing.

Polaris is a fantastic. Gritty and intense, it's an incredibly well made film. I was immediately drawn in by the mesmerizing Alicia Bachleda as Baran, a war photographer struggling with PTSD. Full of secrets she must conceal from her husband, Poorya (excellent performance as well by Bahram Rahda), Baran wrestles with her truths in a performance that is truly captivating. Strong and solid performances, a complex drama that tackles war, PTSD and love, Polaris is something every movie lover will appreciate. Highly Recommend.

Filmmaker Soudabeh Moradian delivers a true masterpiece with Polaris! Not only does it tell a compelling story following Baran (Alicja Bachleda), a traumatized war photographer, but manages to integrate themes of immigration, culture and war. Great performances all around and visuals that will transport you from your home to the middle east!

It takes a while to get your bearings in the story, but once you do, the film is a satisfying slow-burn, unravelling with enough secrets and twists to keep you engaged. The acting is mostly strong, but the two lead characters aren't particularly endearing, and their motives and actions are sometimes questionable. The film spends most of it's time in one location, but doesn't overstay it's welcome as the film is cleverly interspersed with jumps in time and space. The cinematography is lovely and keeps you engaged with the story. Ultimately, the film feels original and unformulaic, and stays uncompromising to the end.