Abbas Kiarostami : Book Review

"Abbas Kiarostami" by Alberto Elena offers an insightful exploration of the life and artistic contributions of the influential Iranian filmmaker. In this book, Elena delves deep into the various aspects of Kiarostami's artistry, shedding light on his pioneering use of poetic realism and his penchant for blurring the lines between reality and fiction.

One of the book's strengths lies in its comprehensive analysis of Kiarostami's films. Elena skillfully dissects the philosophical themes, visual aesthetics, and narrative structures employed by the filmmaker, providing readers with a rich understanding of his unique approach to storytelling. From his early works such as "Where Is the Friend's House?" to his later masterpieces like "Taste of Cherry," each film is meticulously examined and placed within the larger context of Kiarostami's body of work.

Moreover, Elena goes beyond the purely artistic aspects and explores the socio-political challenges faced by Kiarostami and his contemporaries in Iran. He highlights the restrictions imposed on filmmakers and the delicate dance they had to perform to navigate the complex cultural and political landscape. By doing so, Elena offers readers a deeper understanding of the context in which Kiarostami's films were created and the significance of his contributions to Iranian cinema.

Throughout the book, Elena's writing is accessible and engaging, making it a compelling read for both cinephiles and scholars alike. He combines his deep knowledge of Kiarostami's work with insightful analysis, offering fresh perspectives and valuable interpretations. Elena's passion for the subject matter is evident, and his admiration for Kiarostami's artistry shines through on every page.

In conclusion, "Abbas Kiarostami" is an essential book for anyone interested in understanding the profound impact of the Iranian filmmaker's work. Elena's expert examination of Kiarostami's films, along with the socio-political context in which they were created, provides a compelling and comprehensive overview of his cinematic legacy. Whether you are a devoted fan or a curious scholar, this book is sure to deepen your appreciation for Kiarostami's contributions to the world of cinema.

What are readers saying?

The book titled "Abbas Kiarostami" by Alberto Elena has garnered a variety of reactions from readers, ranging from positive to negative. Many readers applaud the book for its extensive exploration and detailed analysis of Abbas Kiarostami's works and his contributions to Iranian cinema. They appreciate how the author delves into Kiarostami's artistic vision and his profound impact on the film industry. Readers find the book informative, offering a deeper understanding of Kiarostami's films and the cultural context they were created in. Overall, these readers view the book as an invaluable addition to the study of cinema and Iranian culture.

However, there are some readers who perceive the book as overly academic and difficult to follow. They mention that Alberto Elena's writing style can be dense and inaccessible, posing a challenge for readers without a background in film studies. Such readers claim that the book lacks a more engaging narrative and comes across as too scholarly.

Additionally, a few readers point out that the book primarily focuses on Kiarostami's earlier works, neglecting to delve into his later films as comprehensively. These readers express a desire for a broader examination of Kiarostami's entire filmography.

Despite these criticisms, the majority of readers concur that Alberto Elena's book is a valuable resource for those interested in gaining insight into Kiarostami's films and their influence on Iranian cinema. The book offers a comprehensive analysis of his works and sheds light on his artistic vision. Although it may present challenges to some readers due to its academic nature, it provides a wealth of information for those willing to embark on a deeper exploration of Kiarostami's filmography.