It
is deeply embedded in Iranian culture and the national character, but its roots
go back to early Zoroastrian traditions, rather than Islam. Yet, you can find many
archetypal elements throughout Ferdowsi’s epic Shahnmeh (a.k.a. The Book of Kings)
that have western analogs. Heroes must rise to depose a tyrant in league with
evil supernatural forces in Ashkan Rahgozar’s The Last Fiction (trailer here), which screens during the 2018 Anchorage International Film Festival.
King
Jamshid was once a just monarch, who enjoyed divine favor, but he has been
blinded by ambition and a lust for conquest. He has been absent for years on an
ill-conceived campaign (much like Richard the Lionheart), leaving the nation in
the hands of the ruthless Zahhak, who is in league with the demonic Ahriman.
Suspicions were already running high, due to the many men who entered into the
castle on the pretext of construction work, only to disappear without a trace.
However, Zahhak irrevocably loses the confidence of the people when he orders
the death of every infant, to prevent the prophecy of his downfall from coming
true. Right, does that sound familiar at all?
Afaridoun
is the target of Zahhak’s wrath, but he escapes, thanks to his mother’s
sacrifice and the heroism of Kaveh, the blacksmith. However, the angry orphan
will need to mature considerably and train harder, before he can effectively
lead the resistance.
Last Fiction is considered Iran’s
first animated feature, which is a little surprising, considering the levels of
accomplishment and recognition Persian cinema has reached. Regardless, it is
pretty impressive, especially as the pioneering trailblazer. The character designs
are quite striking and the world-building is richly detailed. There is a bit of
herky-jerkiness here and there, but so what? In contrast, some of the stylized
sequences relating episodes of legend and lore are truly elegant.
Rahgozar
shrewdly adapted passages from the Shahnameh
(considered the world’s longest epic poem) that best lend themselves to
dramatic visuals. Frankly, anytime Iranian filmmakers depict the overthrow of an
oppressive dictator, the world becomes a sunnier place and at least a dozen angels
get their wings. It is also just a cool semi-fantastical story, with generous
helpings of hack-and-slash action.
In
addition to the swordplay, there is also a good deal of magic and intrigue, as
well as a few nice Persian songs. There isn’t much romance though, since this
is an Iranian film. Still, there is plenty to hold the interest of rowdy animation
fans and refined patrons of Persian culture. Enthusiastically recommended, The Last Fiction screens this Saturday
(12/8), as part of this year’s Anchorage International Film Festival.
