The Song of Sparrows
Iranian filmmakers regularly deliver outstanding product, and while this award-winning drama from last year may not be in the top tier, it should please fans of Middle East cinema. A worker at an ostrich farm loses his job and travels to Tehran, where he struggles to maintain his sense of self as the urban environment closes in around him, leading to a tragedy — or so it seems. Salon.com called this visually handsome film “leisurely and lovely.” Directed by Majid Majidi, who has built a solid reputation over the years.
Where Are We Going?
The Japan Times praised this unusual romantic drama in which a taciturn, mistreated young gay man falls in love with a transsexual. Murder is the result, but the film violates any number of moralistic film conventions by being firmly on the side of the protagonists. Starts tomorrow at the Baixue theater in Ximending as part of a promotion for its DVD release.
Angels on a Pin (針尖上的天使)
Finally, a quick mention for a short (17-minute) film by Taiwanese director Wu Mi-sen (吳米森) at the Spot theater in Taipei. The three screenings have been changed from the original calendar to late tonight and early tomorrow and Sunday evening. Entry is free; tickets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis an hour before each session.
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