In spite of international award-winning productions, Iran's cinema is underexposed. Because of the prevailing religious, political and social atmosphere in Iran, the country's cinema remained stagnant for more than 50 years. Although the "new" Iranian cinema had begun to develop before the 1979 revolution, the political changes gave rise to a new wave of expression.

This volume examines the two waves of modern Iranian cinema: before and after the Islamic Revolution of 1979. The first began about 1969, and the second started in 1984 and carried its momentum through 1997. Topics discussed include the effect of cultural mores on cinematic growth, the development of Iranian cinema as a reaction against commercial cinema and the effect of politics on the film industry. Foreign influence (largely American and Indian) on Iranian films is also examined. Critical sources used are primarily Persian to give the reader a culturally inclusive view of each production. Specific films discussed include Fickle, The Cow, Mud-brick and Mirror, Captain Khorshid and Downpour. A chapter-by-chapter filmography is included.

About the Author
Shahla Mirbakhtyar studied theatre and cinema at Tehran University and The Australian National University where she earned a Master of Philosophy in Film Studies. An actress in Iranian Cinema, she had leading roles in many feature films including The Inner Beast, The Autumn of Sahra, The Silky Chains and The Redwind.

Reviews
"well-documented...a very user-friendly, condensed, and stimulating tool for both students and film enthusiasts"-Journal of Shi'a Islamic Studies;



Book Information
ISBN 9780786422852
Author Shahla Mirbakhtyar
Format Paperback
Page Count 210
Imprint McFarland & Co Inc
Publisher McFarland & Co Inc
Weight(grams) 290g
Dimensions(mm) 229mm * 152mm * 11mm