The Persian Version (15)

★★★✭ Maryam Keshavarz’s semi-autobiographical feelgood Iranian-American comedy will instantly strike a chord with any female second-generation immigrants. ~ ManchesterTheatres.com

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Winning both the Audience Award and the Best Screenplay Award at the Sundance Film Festival, writer-director-producer Maryam Keshavarz delivers a crowd pleasing film that is a compelling, intelligent, and timely story of both the Iranian, and the Iranian-American, experience.

Coming from two countries at odds with each other, Iranian-American Leila (Layla Mohammadi) strives to find balance and embrace her opposing cultures, while boldly challenging the labels society is so quick to project upon her.

When her family reunites in New York City for her father’s heart transplant, Leila navigates her relationships from arms length in an effort to keep her “real” life separate from her family life. However, when her secret is unceremoniously revealed, so are the distinct parallels between her life and that of her mother Shireen (Niousha Noor).

Punctuated by a bright colour palette, snappy comedic relief, and vibrant dance numbers, The Persian Version delivers an honest portrayal of a woman who remains unapologetically herself, blended seamlessly into a heartfelt story about family, belonging, and the undeniable influence of pop music.

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★★★★ A rousing mother-daughter melodrama, Maryam Keshavarz’s quasi-autobiographical tale depicts a Brooklyn hipster’s relationship with her mother. ~ The Times.

★★★★ Despite a crowded spread of themes and characters, this winning comedy-drama explores cultural identity with lively charm. Layla Mohammadi plays Leila, an LGBTQ+ film-maker who is estranged from her New York-based Iranian-American family, notably mum Shireen (Niousha Noor). ~ Radio Times.