The Hidden Half 2001
Directed by
Tahmineh Milani
Made by
Facets Multimedia Distribution
Plot Summary
As Fereshteh, portrayed by Niki Karimi, pens her captivating life story in a heartfelt manuscript for her husband, Atila (played by Atila Pesyani), the narrative unfolds like a mesmerizing cinematic puzzle. This tale delves into her younger self at the University of Tehran, unraveling the complexities of her 18-year-old life amid the burgeoning Islamic Revolution of 1978. Her inquisitive nature draws her into the whirlwind of political upheaval spurred by the Shah’s downfall, and she immerses herself in a communist group, distributing clandestine flyers, all while putting her safety on the line.
Amid this turbulent backdrop, Fereshteh encounters Roozebeh, an intellectual figure played by Mohammad Nikbin, who serves as a magazine editor and possesses a deep admiration for the ideals stemming from the Mossadeq era. He is equally captivated by Fereshteh’s steadfast dedication to her cause. As the government tightens its grip by searching for activists throughout Tehran, Roozebeh offers Fereshteh an opportunity to flee abroad. Yet, torn by her commitment to her beliefs, she hesitates, uncertain if she is ready to abandon her passionate convictions.
In a twist of fate, Roozebeh’s wife makes an entrance, unveiling the concealed dimensions of his existence and his familial obligations. This revelation triggers a transformative reaction within Fereshteh, prompting her to scrutinize her bond with the enigmatic Roozebeh. Ultimately, she decides to sever ties with him and embraces a new chapter by marrying her husband, all while choosing not to disclose her past.
However, the truth inevitably surfaces when her husband interviews a woman facing the death penalty in an appeal. In that critical moment, Fereshteh hopes to impart her story, yearning for her husband to hear her with compassion and an open heart. Through this act of sharing, she seeks to bridge the gap between her public persona and the hidden aspects of her identity that she has long kept in the shadows.
Timeline
Fereshteh Begins Her Manuscript
Fereshteh, portrayed by Niki Karimi, starts writing a heartfelt manuscript about her life for her husband, Atila. This personal endeavor serves as a reflection of her past and the complexities she faced during a pivotal time in Iranian history.
Life at the University of Tehran
The narrative takes us back to Fereshteh's younger self attending the University of Tehran. At the age of 18, she is surrounded by the fervor of the Islamic Revolution of 1978, grappling with her identity and beliefs amid the socio-political changes.
Political Awakening
As the political landscape shifts due to the Shah's downfall, Fereshteh becomes intrigued by the revolutionary ideas circulating around her. This growing curiosity leads her to explore her political beliefs more deeply, placing her in the midst of the turmoil.
Joining the Communist Group
Driven by her passion for change, Fereshteh joins a communist group. She begins distributing clandestine flyers, deeply aware of the risks involved, which only heightens her commitment to the cause and her belief in a better future.
Encounter with Roozebeh
Amidst her activism, Fereshteh meets Roozebeh, an intellectual and magazine editor played by Mohammad Nikbin. Their meeting sparks a mutual admiration and complicates Fereshteh's emotional landscape as she navigates her beliefs and desires.
Government Crackdown
The government intensifies its search for activists, creating a climate of fear in Tehran. This escalation forces Fereshteh and others to grapple with the reality of their situation and the imminent danger they face.
Roozebeh's Offer
Roozebeh presents Fereshteh with an opportunity to flee abroad, opening a door to escape the escalating political chaos. However, Fereshteh feels torn between her desire for safety and her commitment to the revolutionary ideals she has embraced.
The Arrival of Roozebeh's Wife
The plot thickens when Roozebeh's wife enters the scene, revealing his hidden familial obligations and responsibilities. This unexpected development compels Fereshteh to reassess her feelings for Roozebeh and the implications of their potential relationship.
Making a Choice
Faced with the realities of Roozebeh's life and her own aspirations, Fereshteh chooses to cut ties with him. She opts for a new path by marrying her husband Atila, while deciding to keep her tumultuous past a secret.
The Interview Revelation
The truth about Fereshteh's past begins to unravel when Atila interviews a woman facing the death penalty. This moment becomes crucial as Fereshteh realizes the impending need to share her story and the depth of her hidden identity.
A Moment of Truth
In a pivotal moment, Fereshteh strives to communicate her past to her husband with hope that he will understand. She yearns for his compassion and an open heart, seeking to bridge the gap between who she is publicly and her hidden self.
Reflection on Her Journey
As Fereshteh pens her manuscript, she reflects on her journey from striving for political ideals to finding her personal truth. The act of writing signifies not just a recounting of events, but a healing process that helps her reconcile her past with her present.
Characters
Fereshteh (Niki Karimi)
Fereshteh is a passionate and dedicated young woman whose life becomes intertwined with the political landscape of 1978 Iran. Her inquisitive nature propels her into activism, where she demonstrates immense courage in her commitment to her beliefs. As she navigates her relationships and personal choices, Fereshteh's character embodies the struggle between public persona and hidden truths.
Atila (Atila Pesyani)
Atila serves as Fereshteh's husband, representing a stable counterpart to her tumultuous life. He is depicted as compassionate but ultimately unaware of the depths of Fereshteh's past. His character reflects the theme of love intertwined with secrets, and his actions drive the narrative toward its poignant climax.
Roozebeh (Mohammad Nikbin)
Roozebeh is an intellectual figure who captivates Fereshteh with his ideals and dedication to the revolutionary cause. His role as a magazine editor places him at the forefront of political discourse, yet his personal life complicates matters. As a character, Roozebeh embodies the tensions between personal desires and socio-political responsibilities.
Setting
Time period
1978
The year 1978 marked a pivotal moment in Iranian history as the Islamic Revolution began to take shape, leading to the eventual overthrow of the Shah. It was a time of immense political upheaval where individuals were compelled to take a stand for their beliefs amidst rising tensions and societal changes. This historical context dramatically influenced the lives of many, including the protagonist Fereshteh, who navigated her personal journey against this backdrop.
Location
Tehran
Tehran, the capital city of Iran, is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich history and cultural significance. It became a focal point during the Islamic Revolution of 1978, which reshaped the political landscape of the nation. The city's streets were alive with political fervor, making it a crucial backdrop for stories of activism and personal struggle.
Themes
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Political Turmoil
The theme of political turmoil is central to 'The Hidden Half', encapsulating the chaos and societal shifts during the Islamic Revolution. Fereshteh's involvement in activism reflects the struggle between personal convictions and the forces of change around her. As she risks her safety to support her beliefs, the film explores the impact of larger political events on individual lives.
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Identity and Choices
The theme of identity and choices is prevalent throughout Fereshteh's journey. As she grapples with her past and the ramifications of her decisions, the film delves into the complexities of self-discovery. Her ultimate choice to marry Atila and suppress her past reveals the inner conflict between societal expectations and personal truth.
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