Film Review: ‘It Turns Blue’ directed by Shadi Karamroudi
Rating: ★★★★★
In “It Turns Blue,” director Shadi Karamroudi skillfully delves into the depths of philosophical and psychological concepts, weaving a tapestry of cinematic brilliance that forces audiences to confront the complexities of reality, memory, and the societal undercurrents of domestic violence within Iran.
In a resounding triumph for director Shadi Karamroudi, “It Turns Blue” has garnered critical acclaim and accolades, earning the prestigious Narrative Short jury award at the esteemed SXSW Festival 2023. Building on this success, the film has further solidified its reputation by being selected to grace the screen in the esteemed Beneath the Surface program section of the 29th edition of the Palm Springs International ShortFest on June 20th, further cementing its position as a cinematic gem.
The film’s title itself, “It Turns Blue,” serves as a tantalizing entry point into philosophical introspection. Implicitly suggesting the malleability of perception, it invites viewers to question the nature of reality and the potential for altering one’s own understanding of the world. The symbolic hue of blue, synonymous with concealment, expertly highlights society’s proclivity to distort or bury uncomfortable truths, drawing parallelisms to the timeless Allegory of the Cave by Plato.
Delving into the intricate recesses of memory, “It Turns Blue” unfurls a psychological tapestry that leaves no stone unturned. Through the manipulation of her niece’s recollection, the older sister deftly exposes the fragile and malleable nature of human memory. With shades of memory distortion and gaslighting, the film boldly blurs the boundaries between fact and fiction, prompting a profound examination of the reliability of personal recollections.
This captivating film also offers a scathing sociocultural critique, shedding a searing light on the societal structure and pervasive issue of domestic violence within Iran. The power dynamics portrayed within the familial framework serve as a microcosm of broader social patterns, exposing the dynamics of control and oppression. With its exploration of attachment theory, “It Turns Blue” underscores the indelible impact of parental figures on a child’s emotional well-being, casting an unrelenting spotlight on our collective responsibility to rectify power imbalances and safeguard the vulnerable.
By deftly intertwining psychological and societal notions, “It Turns Blue” emerges as a poignant and unflinching reflection of the human condition. The scars borne by its characters become poignant metaphors for the hidden wounds that plague our society. It relentlessly implores us to confront our complicity and silence in the face of domestic violence, urging us to dismantle established norms and foster a climate of empathy and proactive intervention.
“It Turns Blue” stands as a resounding testament to the transformative power of cinema. With its exquisite performances and masterful storytelling, the film not only captivates but also challenges audiences to embark on an introspective journey. It forces us to reevaluate our perceptions, confront uncomfortable truths, and ultimately strive for a society that is grounded in compassion and unwavering justice.
