The Film
While divorce may be common in the United States, in Iran it is very different matter, and makes for the central plot of the Iran film A Separation. This acclaimed film, which won an Academy Award, a Golden Globe and an Independent Spirit Award for best foreign language film, centers on Nader and Simin, who after 14 years of marriage are nearing the end of the line. Simin looks to leave the country, but this desire is not shared by Nader, who wishes to remain to care for his elderly father.
A petition for divorce isn't granted and Simin leaves her husband and daughter and returns to her parents. Nader in turn hires Razieh, a young woman, to care for his father with the hope that life will return to normal. However, nothing in Iran is simple - at least by American standards - and Razieh's hotheaded husband is outraged that she didn't ask permission. All this results in a slow burn that culminates in so much more than mere separations.
For another take on A Separation read David Kempler's review.
The Picture
This is not a bombastic or action oriented film but instead tells a rather realistic story, and does so with natural and lifelike colors, with everything from the skin tones to the settings. The 1.85:1 widescreen presentation is free of any noticeable visual distractions, and the picture is sharp from beginning to end.
The Sound
The DTS-HD Master Audio is presented in discrete surround or 3.0. There is no actual low end, and actually little in the way of ambient or background noise. In fact this film is rather flat sounding at times, but the dialog, which is presented in Persian/Farsi is clear and even.
The Extras
The bonus material consists of commentary with the film's director Asghar Farhadi, and features two featurettes that both offer a deeper insight of Farhadi. These include the "An Evening with Asghar Farhadi," and "Birth of a Director." Both are interesting enough but it feels like there is a disconnect - or even separation - in what this disc could have offered.
Final Thoughts
This award-winning foreign film features an interesting story, complellingly told, while offering a glimpse into a world largely unknown to the American viewer. On Blu-ray it looks good, sounds reasonable but sadly lacks any extras that could have made it a standout package.
Product Details
Where to Buy:
| Overall | |
|---|---|
| Video | |
| Audio | |
| Movie | |
| Extras |
