In My Own Home, I Don't Feel Safe.
Review written by Jack Aling
The Seed of a Sacred Fig is directed & written by Mohammad Rasoulof. Starring Misagh Zare, Soheila Golestani, Mahsa Rostami & Setareh Maleki.
An investigating judge in the Revolutionary Court in Tehran grapples with mistrust and paranoia as nationwide political protests intensify and his gun mysteriously disappears.
Timely and fearless, The Seed of The Sacred Fig is a fascinating example of the power of cinema, using storytelling to bring worldwide attention to poignant and pressing world matters.
Mohammad Rasoulof uses a family's experiences and generational differences to personify the injustice taking place across Iran. The conflict and uncertainty build within the family as demonstrations become violent and for the most part, the film stays with the women of the family to analyse the impact it has on them first hand.
Using footage of real demonstrations is a powerful way to remind audiences of the reality of the situation and the filtering that traditional media uses to hide away from it. This helps create real tension that slowly rises through the film's first two acts.
The third act feels like a disorienting tonal shift as conflicting loyalties within the family turn inwards, making for an impactful close but one that clashes with its slow and methodical buildup.
The Seed of The Sacred Fig is arguably 2024's most important film, showing the impact of censorship that should be seen by audiences worldwide. Given the current political situation, it's a miracle this film even exists. We should not stop talking about it.
Our verdict: 4 out of 5 stars.
The Seed of The Sacred Fig releases in UK Cinemas on 13th December 2024.
Read more of Jack's reviews at: letterboxd.com/TheJackAling
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