Review: 'Universal Language' needs to be seen to be believed
Briefly

Matthew Rankin's film "Universal Language" uniquely sets itself in Winnipeg, Manitoba, imbuing it with Iranian culture and aesthetics. The film showcases a surreal combination of elements typical of both Canadian and Iranian cinema, including the use of Farsi language and traditional tea served from samovars. Inspired by the Iranian New Wave filmmakers, Rankin's work serves both as a tribute and a comedic commentary on the cultural divide between these cinematic traditions. It portrays the strange beauty of a dreamlike world, illustrating how cinema can bridge vast cultural distances.
Matthew Rankin's "Universal Language" creatively fuses the reality of Winnipeg with Iranian cinema, using Farsi dialogue and cultural references, creating a unique experience.
The film serves as a surreal homage to Iranian masters like Kiarostami while playfully confronting the distance of their cinematic style from Canadian culture.
Read at Datebook | San Francisco Arts & Entertainment Guide
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