Emotionally involving, intelligent, and psychologically complex, A Separation is a persuasive portrait of flawed but sympathetic people trapped in such familiar patterns of conflict that they might be our own family or neighbors, despite religious and cultural differences. Set in Tehran, Asghar Farhadi’s Oscar-winning drama is spurred by the incompatible priorities of a middle-class Iranian couple with a pre-teen daughter, until unexpected circumstances overshadow the marital conflict. The wrenching denouement underscores the stakes in the failure of a marriage: the choice is impossible, all outcomes unthinkable.
—Steven D. Greydanus
Arts & Faith Lists:
2013 — Top 25 Marriage Films — #10