"Crimson Gold" is one of those rare films made in recent times which does not feature themes and characters which have become hallmark of Iranian cinema.We have seen films about angelic children and lonely, frustrated women and housewives.At this juncture,we are talking of an Iranian cinema which is honored at film festivals all over the world but is banned at home by cultural authorities as Iranian audiences feel that their films have failed to depict a truthful portrayal of their country.This is also the case of this film as it was banned in Iran after winning critical acclaim outside of Iran.In the past,Jafar Panahi used to make innocuous films about innocent kids and harassed women.As he wanted to do something different,something original,he decided to film an actual event involving a heist which took place in Teheran.In the making of "Crimson Gold",Abbas Kiarostami has helped Jafar Panahi to direct a unique film in the history of Iranian cinema.It is one of those rare films that has an urban feel.One can see cars,motorbikes and well lit roads.As in many Iranian films of recent times young protagonists have been shown as highly critical of moral policing prevalent in Iran.It is true that the suicide of the main character remains a crucial plot of the film.It is for viewers to ascertain the reasons which induced him to take such an extreme step. Crimson Gold is a film which conveys that it is not poverty but desperation,frustration,hopelessness which induce people to commit crime and suicide.
Review of Crimson Gold
