Disappearance is a 2017 drama film produced in collaboration between the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and India. It tells the story of a young Iranian couple, Soraya and Amir, who live together in Tehran. Soraya has been studying abroad in Vancouver, Canada, and recently returned home to Amir in Tehran. The couple plans a romantic getaway to celebrate their reunion, and embark on a road trip to the Northern coast of Iran. While driving through the barren mountains, they stop at a roadside diner to have lunch. After taking a stroll nearby, Soraya returns to the car to find that Amir has disappeared without a trace.
The rest of the film follows Soraya's desperate search for her missing partner, as she traverses the unfamiliar and unforgiving Iranian wilderness. Her journey through the rugged terrain of the North serves as a metaphor for the emotional and psychological struggle that Soraya is undergoing. She must confront her deepest fears and judgments in order to continue her search for Amir.
Throughout her search, Soraya meets a variety of characters who aid or hinder her quest. A shepherd living in the mountains, another couple vacationing in the area, and a group of shady men who offer her help all play a role in the mysterious disappearance of Amir. Soraya's journey brings her closer to the truth, and as she uncovers clues, she discovers that Amir may have had secrets of his own.
The film handles Soraya's character with a sense of empathy and grace, presenting her as a complex and nuanced character who struggles with the cultural norms in Iran. Her insistence on finding Amir and her refusal to back down despite obstacles makes her a compelling protagonist who draws the audience in. Sadaf Asgari gives an intense and moving performance as Soraya, capturing the character's fear, strength, and vulnerability.
The film's cinematography is striking, with beautiful shots of the Iranian countryside and the harsh wilderness that Soraya must navigate. Director Ali Asgari shows a remarkable ability to balance the story's quieter, introspective moments with the thrilling suspense that comes with Soraya's increasingly bleak situation. The use of sound design and the sparse score also contribute to the film's atmosphere, making the experience of watching it an immersive one.
Perhaps what makes Disappearance so effective is its ability to tap into universal fears and anxieties. The fear of losing a loved one, the fear of the unknown, and the terror of being stranded in an unfamiliar place all resonate with viewers. The film's themes of love and loss, grief and loneliness, and the complex dynamics of human relationships make it a moving and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition.
Overall, Disappearance is a gripping and intense drama that showcases the talents of its director and actors. With an impactful story, striking cinematography, and genuine emotion, it is a film that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.
Disappearance is a 2017 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes.
