Short Film: “Retouch”

A movie by Iranian director and screenwriter Kaveh Mazaheri is a master class in emotional subtext and the power of expression in the human face.

My DePaul University School of Cinematic Arts colleague and friend Alireza Khatami recommended a 2017 short film by Kaveh Mazaheri. It is now a staff pick on Vimeo after a highly successful festival run garnering 77 awards.

Premise: Maryam’s husband has an accident at home and, rather than saving him, she stops helping and watches him die.

A provocative story concept and you must watch the movie because it’s great.

The dramatic irony that we know what she knows plays out underneath her entire work day. And the close-ups! Her face. Every shot. What is she thinking… what is she feeling? The movie is a testament to visual storytelling and the power of the human face to evoke emotion in the most subtle ways.

You can read more about the movie and an interview with its writer-director Kaveh Mazaheri by going here.

While you’re at it, check out Oblivion Verses, an award-winning feature length movie written and directed by Alireza Khatami. It’s wonderful and free for subscribers to Amazon Prime!