Taboor is a thought-provoking Iranian drama that explores themes of isolation, detachment, and personal freedom. Directed by Vahid Vakilifar and released in 2012, the film stars Mohammad Rabbanipour as Reza, a man who lives a solitary life and works as an exterminator. The movie gives a unique insight into Rezaâs daily routine that is filled with mundane tasks, which definitely puts the viewers in a meditative mood.
The film takes place in a futuristic Tehran, and the city is depicted as a bleak, sterile, and dystopian setting where technology and social control have replaced most of the human emotions. The movie features long, slow shots and minimal dialogue, which contribute to the overall sense of detachment and isolation. Most of the scenes take place at night, and the lighting is dim creating an aura of mystery to Reza's mundane world.
Reza spends most of his nights driving around the city, spraying chemicals to exterminate pests, and repairing electronic equipment. He is a man of few words and tends to avoid socializing with anyone. It is evident from the movieâs beginning that there is something mysterious and unsettling about Reza's personality.
As the film progresses, a strange man approaches Reza to request his services. This man tells Reza about his illegal desire to transform himself into an insect, and in order to do so, he requires Reza's assistance. Despite the danger and the illegal consequences, Reza agrees to help him, and they set off together in the dark of the night.
With the help of the man, Reza gradually opens up and starts to reveal parts of his past, including an incident in which he may have been involved in a crime. Throughout the night, the characters come across several events that challenge the status quo of their society, and they both attempt to break free from their mundane lives.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the movie is the use of sound and silence. The director effectively uses silence to convey Reza's alienation and detachment from the surroundings. In contrast, when sound is used, it is usually jarring and disruptive, emphasizing the uncomfortable nature of the film.
Overall, Taboor is not a movie for everyone. Its slow pace and minimal dialogue may not appeal to all audiences. However, for those willing to dig deeper, the movie offers a unique and rewarding experience. The film's themes of isolation and personal freedom resonate in today's society, which is full of notifications, distractions, and social media. It is a commentary on the price of modernity while holding an insightful mirror to our current lifestyles.
Mohammad Rabbanipour delivers a tremendous performance as Reza, portraying the character's detachment and emotional struggles flawlessly. Additionally, the cinematography and lighting deserve praise for creating the dark and dystopian atmosphere of the movie. The film's story, combined with the technical and artistic execution, makes Taboor an essential watch for film lovers who enjoy thought-provoking and unconventional stories.
In conclusion, Taboor is a somber and introspective movie that tells an existential story that is both simple and complex. Vahid Vakilifar's direction, along with the stunning cinematography and Mohammad Rabbanipour's performance, make it a must-watch masterpiece. The film's exploration of isolation and personal freedom, accompanied by the eerie atmosphere, delivers a profound and unforgettable cinematic experience that haunts long after the credits have rolled.
TABOOR is a 2012 science fiction movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.8.
