New Movies: Critical Zone (2023) by Ali Ahmadzadeh

"Critical Zone (2023)": Tehran's Underground Odyssey

Description: Directed by Ali Ahmadzadeh, "Critical Zone (2023)" is a daring Iranian-German drama that offers a surreal and unflinching look at the underground life in Tehran. Shot secretly without government permission, the film follows Amir, a drug dealer with a messianic aura, as he navigates the city's nocturnal underbelly with his dog and a sentient-like GPS. His encounters with various troubled souls paint a provocative portrait of a society seeking escape and resistance in a restrictive environment.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27720531/

Link Review: https://cineuropa.org/en/newsdetail/447458/

About movie: https://www.luxboxfilms.com/critical-zone

Link to watch: https://www.amazon.de/-/en/Ali-Ahmadzadeh/dp/B0F2HQKR4X/r (Germany), https://www.justwatch.com/nl/movie/critical-zone (Netherlands)

Detailed Summary: The film centers on Amir, a solitary figure who spends his nights driving through the sprawling, often unseen, parts of Tehran. Accompanied by his dog and guided by the sometimes-cryptic voice of his GPS, Amir acts as a dealer of various drugs, but also a confessor and a source of temporary solace for the individuals he meets. These encounters are varied and often surreal, introducing the audience to a diverse cast of characters from Tehran's underground – including drug users, a flight attendant involved in smuggling, and others grappling with the social and political constraints of their lives. Amir, in his wandering, seems to embody a form of modern-day prophet or community medic, distributing not just substances but also a sense of ephemeral freedom. The film is structured episodically, reflecting the clandestine nature of its production and perhaps the fragmented reality it depicts. Through these nocturnal journeys and interactions, "Critical Zone" provides a raw and rebellious glimpse into an underground Tehran, showcasing the desires, frustrations, and subtle acts of resistance within a society under pressure.

Plot Summary:

• Amir, a drug dealer, drives through Tehran at night with his dog and GPS.

• He encounters various individuals in the city's underground.

• These interactions reveal aspects of a society seeking escape and dealing with restrictions.

• Amir acts as a dealer, confessor, and provider of temporary relief.

• The film follows his episodic journey through the critical zone of Tehran's underbelly.

The plot is less a linear narrative and more a series of vignettes connected by Amir's presence and his traversal of the city's hidden spaces.

Director's Vision: Ali Ahmadzadeh's vision for "Critical Zone" was deeply intertwined with an act of rebellion against the Iranian authorities. Filmed in secret without official permits, the movie is intended as a provocative and authentic portrayal of a generation in Iran seeking freedom and expressing dissent. Ahmadzadeh aimed to show an "underground Tehran – wild, tired and sick," an image he believes the government attempts to suppress. He utilized a blend of documentary-style filmmaking, working with non-professional actors who were motivated by a desire to rebel, and a surreal, almost magical realist atmosphere to create a "critical zone" where conventional rules are suspended. The episodic structure was a necessity born from the challenging and secretive filming conditions, but it also contributes to the film's fragmented and dreamlike quality. Ahmadzadeh views the film's very existence and dissemination as a victory against censorship.

Themes:

• Resistance and Defiance: The film itself, being shot secretly, is an act of defiance, and this theme is mirrored in the characters' subtle or overt acts of resisting societal and political constraints.

• Escape and Artificial Paradise: The use of drugs in the film symbolizes a means of temporary escape from a difficult reality and the creation of artificial paradises in a place perceived as having "no future."

• The Underground and the Unseen: The movie delves into the hidden aspects of Tehran and the lives lived away from the public eye, revealing a different reality than the officially sanctioned one.

• Loneliness and Connection: Amidst the nocturnal wandering, the film explores moments of fleeting connection between lonely individuals in the city's underbelly.

• Surrealism and Reality: The blend of realistic portrayal and surreal elements reflects the disorienting nature of life under strict control and the psychological impact on individuals.

Key Success Factors:

• Act of Rebellion and Secrecy: The knowledge that the film was shot secretly in defiance of the Iranian government generated significant international interest and buzz.

• Golden Leopard Win at Locarno: Winning a major award like the Golden Leopard at a prestigious film festival immediately elevated the film's profile and critical attention.

• Provocative and Unflinching Portrayal: The film's willingness to depict aspects of Iranian society rarely shown on screen contributed to its impact and critical discussion.

• Unique Narrative Structure and Atmosphere: The episodic, surreal, and atmospheric approach sets the film apart and contributes to its artistic merit.

Summary Short: Shot secretly in Tehran, this drama follows a drug dealer through the city's underground, offering a surreal and rebellious look at a society seeking escape and resistance.

Awards and Nominations: "Critical Zone (2023)" has received significant recognition on the international film festival circuit, most notably:

• Locarno International Film Festival 2023: Winner of the prestigious Golden Leopard (Best Film). It was also nominated for the Special Jury Prize, Leopard for Best Direction, Locarno International Film Festival – International Competition: Special Mention, and Best Performance Award.

• Batumi International Art-House Film Festival 2023: Winner of the Best Film in the International Feature Films Competition.

• Haifa International Film Festival 2023: Winner of the Best Film in the Carmel International Competition.

• 3 Continents Festival 2023: Winner of the Young Jury Award in the International Competition.

• Festival of Auteur Film 2023 (Serbia): Triumphed at this festival, receiving recognition among other awarded films.

Critics Reception: "Critical Zone (2023)" has received largely positive reviews from film critics, particularly following its premiere and Golden Leopard win at Locarno.

• Cineuropa: Giorgia Del Don describes the film as defying Iran's authoritarian regime and painting a portrait of a "tired and unpredictable society." The review highlights the film's blend of road movie, performance, and "lysergic trip," praising Amir Pousti's performance and the film's ability to open a window onto a reality often kept under wraps. It notes the film's surreal universe and the director's ability to turn restrictions into opportunities for experimentation.

• IMDb User Reviews: User reviews on IMDb are generally positive, with the film holding a respectable average rating. Reviewers often praise the film's raw portrayal of Tehran's underground, its atmospheric tension, and the performance of Amir Pousti. They acknowledge the film's political context and its brave approach to sensitive subjects within Iran. Some users found the surrealism and episodic nature challenging, but overall, the reception is favorable.

• Other Critics (summarized from various sources): Critics have widely lauded the film for its courageous production under challenging circumstances and its insightful, albeit often unsettling, depiction of contemporary Iranian society. Comparisons have been made to the works of renowned Iranian filmmakers like Abbas Kiarostami and Jafar Panahi in its use of cars and observational style, while also noting its distinct, more rebellious and surreal tone. The film's political subtext and its commentary on freedom and oppression have been frequently highlighted.

Overall Critics Reception: Critical reception for "Critical Zone" is predominantly positive, with significant praise for its political bravery, authentic portrayal of its setting, unique style, and winning the Golden Leopard at Locarno. While some aspects of its narrative structure or surrealism might divide opinions, its overall impact as a rebellious and insightful work of cinema has been widely recognized and celebrated by critics.

Reviews: Reviews for "Critical Zone" emphasize its status as a significant and courageous piece of Iranian cinema.

• Cineuropa: As mentioned above, the review highlights the film's defiance, its portrayal of a disillusioned society, and its blend of genres and styles. It recognizes the film's political importance and its ability to reveal unseen aspects of Tehran.

• IMDb User Reviews: User reviews reflect appreciation for the film's raw realism, atmospheric quality, and the central performance. Many users acknowledge the difficult conditions under which the film was made and commend the filmmakers' bravery.

• Various Film Festival Coverage: Reviews and reports from festivals like Locarno, where it won the Golden Leopard, consistently praise the film's artistic merit, political relevance, and bold approach to filmmaking. These reviews often discuss the film within the context of contemporary Iranian cinema and its relationship with censorship.

Overall Reviews: The reviews for "Critical Zone" indicate a strong positive reception, particularly within the context of international film festivals and independent cinema appreciation. The film is seen as a vital and courageous work that offers a unique and powerful perspective on life in Tehran, despite the challenges faced during its production.

Box Office: Based on the available data, "Critical Zone (2023)" has a reported worldwide box office gross of approximately $7,631 as of August 1, 2024. This figure primarily reflects a limited theatrical release in the Netherlands, which accounted for the majority of the reported gross. Given the film's clandestine production and likely challenges in securing widespread international theatrical distribution, particularly in its country of origin, a large box office return was not expected. The film's impact and reach are more likely measured by its festival success and potential digital or limited releases in various territories.

Production: "Critical Zone (2023)" is an Iranian-German co-production. It was directed and written by Ali Ahmadzadeh and produced by Ali Ahmadzadeh and Sina Ataeian Dena. The film was produced by Counter Intuitive Film. Notably, the film was shot secretly in Tehran without obtaining permission from the Iranian authorities, a process that involved meticulous planning, hidden cameras, and navigating potential dangers. The production utilized a cast that included non-professional actors.

Production Companies:

• Counter Intuitive Film (Country of origin not explicitly stated, but involved in an Iranian-German co-production, likely based in Iran or Germany)

Sales Companies:

• Luxbox (Paris, France) - Acquired the international sales rights to the film and presented it at the Marché du Film in Cannes, responsible for selling the film to distributors in various territories worldwide.

Distribution Companies:

• The film has seen limited theatrical distribution in some territories, such as the Netherlands. Its availability on streaming platforms or through other distribution channels in various countries would be facilitated by the sales agent (Luxbox) and potentially by individual distributors who acquired the rights for specific regions. Information on specific international distributors beyond its limited theatrical runs is not extensively available.

• W-film (Germany) - Distributed the film in Germany, with a cinema release on November 7, 2024, and a planned VOD release on May 29, 2025.

Release Date on Streaming: "Critical Zone (2023)" has a planned VOD release date of May 29, 2025, in Germany through the distributor W-film. Information about its wider availability on streaming platforms internationally is not consistently available, but it is likely being released digitally in various territories following its festival run and limited theatrical engagements.

Theatrical Release: The film had its world premiere at the Locarno International Film Festival in August 2023. It subsequently had a limited theatrical release in some countries, including Germany (November 7, 2024) and the Netherlands (August 1, 2024).

Why to Recommend This Movie:

• Powerful Act of Cinematic Resistance: The film's production story itself is a compelling reason to watch, showcasing the bravery of filmmakers working under restrictive conditions.

• Insightful Look at Iranian Society: It offers a rare and unvarnished glimpse into the lives and struggles of individuals in Tehran's underground.

• Artistically Daring: The film's blend of drama, surrealism, and documentary-style elements creates a unique and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

• Award-Winning Quality: Its Golden Leopard win at Locarno signifies its high artistic merit and critical acclaim.

Why to Watch Movie:

• To Support Brave Filmmaking: Watching "Critical Zone" is a way to support filmmakers who risk personal safety to tell important stories.

• For a Unique Cultural Perspective: The film provides a perspective on Tehran and Iranian society that is rarely seen in mainstream cinema.

• If You Appreciate Art-House and Political Cinema: The film fits squarely within the realm of art-house and political cinema, offering a challenging but rewarding viewing experience.

• To See Award-Winning International Film: As a Golden Leopard winner, it is recognized as one of the notable international films of 2023.

What Movie Trend film is Following: Cinema of Resistance / Clandestine Filmmaking: The film is a prime example of cinema made in defiance of authoritarian regimes, following a trend of filmmakers who use covert methods to tell stories that would otherwise be suppressed.

What Big Social Trend is Following: Global Struggle for Freedom of Expression: The film is deeply connected to the ongoing global social trend of individuals and groups fighting for freedom of expression and against censorship and political repression. Its narrative and production context resonate with the broader struggle for human rights and democratic freedoms in various parts of the world.

Final Verdict: "Critical Zone (2023)" is a courageous and artistically significant film that transcends its challenging production circumstances to offer a powerful and unforgettable cinematic experience. Ali Ahmadzadeh's decision to secretly film in Tehran imbues the movie with an undeniable sense of urgency and authenticity. While its surreal and episodic nature may require viewers to engage actively, the film's unflinching portrayal of a society seeking solace and subtly resisting control is both moving and thought-provoking. The Golden Leopard win at Locarno is a testament to its artistic merit and international importance. "Critical Zone" is a vital piece of contemporary Iranian cinema and a compelling example of the power of film as a tool for observation and defiance.

Recommendations for Film Makers:

• Embrace Constraints as Creative Opportunities: Ahmadzadeh's experience demonstrates how severe restrictions can force innovative filmmaking approaches and lead to unique artistic outcomes.

• Prioritize Authenticity and Voice: When depicting sensitive or politically charged subjects, prioritizing authentic representation and a clear artistic voice is crucial, even if it involves risks.

• Utilize International Support Networks: Film festivals, sales agents, and international co-productions can be vital in supporting and distributing films made under restrictive conditions.

• Explore Non-Traditional Distribution: For films facing censorship or challenges in their home countries, focusing on international festival circuits and digital distribution can ensure they reach a global audience.

Recommendations for Movie Industry:

• Support Filmmakers at Risk: The international film industry, including festivals, funds, and distributors, should actively support filmmakers who are working under threat or censorship.

• Provide Platforms for Diverse Voices: Festivals and distributors play a critical role in providing platforms for films from regions where freedom of expression is limited, ensuring these important stories are seen.

• Recognize the Political and Social Value of Film: Acknowledge that film is not just entertainment but can be a powerful tool for social commentary, cultural exchange, and promoting human rights.

• Educate Audiences on Context: Provide context for films made under challenging political circumstances to help audiences understand the risks involved and the significance of the filmmakers' work.

Final Conclusions: "Critical Zone (2023)" stands as a remarkable achievement in contemporary cinema, born out of necessity and defiance. Ali Ahmadzadeh's secret production in Tehran is a powerful statement in itself, and the resulting film is a vivid, surreal, and courageous exploration of the city's hidden life. The film's international acclaim, highlighted by its Golden Leopard win, underscores its artistic strength and universal themes of resistance and the search for freedom. While its distribution may be non-traditional, "Critical Zone" is a must-watch for those interested in brave filmmaking, insightful social commentary, and the power of cinema to challenge and reveal. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of artistic expression in the face of oppression.