Close-Up

Penniless Hossein Sabzian pretends to be the famous Iranian director Mohsen Makhmalbaf, in order to persuade a wealthy family to pay for his next film – starring their own son. However, Sabzian is soon exposed and arrested. This true story forms the basis of Kiarostami’s Close-Up, a hybrid film somewhere between documentary and fiction.

We follow the real-life trial against Sabzian, as the events are re-enacted by the people involved. The result is a highly original work of film art. This is considered one of Kiarostami’s most central works; as well as an important film historical reference.

Ed.

Director

Abbas Kiarostami (1940–2016) was one of the most famous and influential Iranian filmmakers, and a part of the Iranian New Wave. The multi-artist Kiarostami was also a screenwriter, editor, producer, art director, poet, photographer, visual artist, and designer – amongst other things. Kiarostami’s film catalogue offers a multitude of realist dramas, with a characteristic serving of comedy in the mix.