Iranian director Jafar Panahi was arrested some time back. When released on bail, he was barred from writing or directing films. What does a supremely talented and creative director do? He makes This Is Not A Film. Smuggled out of Iran on a USB flash-drive hidden inside a cake, the movie received a special screening at Cannes, and now at DIFF. With the cinema house-full, and the audience reaction to the movie, it is no surprise that Panahi has made another ground-breaking movie. This Is Not A Film is a documentary shot in Panahi’s apartment focused on the man himself. Many a times talking directly to the audience, and some just capturing the conversations of the moment, the movie depicts the director’s plight, and through it, becomes a subtle jab at the state of Iran. This Is Not A Film is a must watch for anybody who loves cinema and/or believes in the freedom of expression. For those unaware, it would do good to be aware of the background of the director first.
Rating: 
