Synopsis
The story is set in a remote and impoverished village in Iran and revolves around Masht Hassan, a humble and devoted villager who owns the only cow in the village. This cow is not only Masht Hassan’s most prized possession but also a vital source of milk and income for him and his wife. The villagers respect him for his dedication to his cow, which he treats almost like a family member. One day, Masht Hassan has to leave the village for a short trip. During his absence, the cow mysteriously dies. Fearing Hassan’s reaction and knowing how deeply he cares for the animal, the villagers decide to conceal the truth from him. They hastily bury the cow and concoct a story that the cow ran away. Upon his return, Masht Hassan is devastated to find his cow missing. Despite the villagers’ attempts to convince him that the cow has indeed run away, he becomes increasingly despondent. Gradually, Hassan’s grief and denial evolve into a psychological breakdown. He begins to believe that he is the cow, losing touch with reality as he assumes the cow’s identity. He mimics its behavior, eats hay, and even prefers to stay in the cow’s stable. The film portrays the villagers’ helplessness and the tragic consequences of their well-intentioned deception. As Hassan’s condition deteriorates, the villagers are confronted with the limits of their solidarity and the harsh realities of their existence.
Director
Dariush Mehrjui, born in 1939 in Tehran, is one of the most influential figures in Iranian cinema and a key founder of the Iranian New Wave movement. He gained international recognition with his 1969 film The Cow, which is often credited with igniting the New Wave in Iran. Mehrjui’s films, such as Hamoun and The Cycle, are known for their deep psychological insight, social critique, and blending of realism with symbolic elements. His work has had a lasting impact on Iranian cinema, inspiring subsequent generations of filmmakers.
