Close-Up

Close-Up tells the true story of Hossain Sabzian, who impersonates Iranian filmmaker Mohsen Makhmalbaf to gain favor with the Ahankhah family in Tehran. After his arrest, Sabzian explains his motives, revealing his deep love for cinema and desire to escape his mundane life. The film’s centerpiece is Sabzian’s trial, blending real footage with re-enactments, highlighting themes of remorse, forgiveness, and the power of cinema. The story concludes with a poignant meeting between Sabzian and the real Makhmalbaf, symbolizing reconciliation.

Abbas Kiarostami, born in 1940 in Tehran, was a legendary Iranian filmmaker, poet, and photographer, widely regarded as one of the most influential directors in world cinema. He gained international recognition with his 1997 film Taste of Cherry, which won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Kiarostami’s films, such as Close-Up and The Wind Will Carry Us, are known for their philosophical depth, minimalist style, and exploration of the boundaries between fiction and reality. Beyond cinema, Kiarostami was also a respected poet and visual artist, contributing to his reputation as a multi-talented figure in global art and culture.​⬤