“Boomerang,” interview with director Shahab Fotouhi

In a compelling interview, Shahab Fotouhi, the director of the film “Boomerang” in the section Giornate degli Autori, discusses the complex narrative structure of his movie, which contrasts a crumbling marriage with a budding romance, all set against the sociopolitical backdrop of Tehran. Fotouhi explains that instead of using a traditional, linear narrative, he chose a style that blends personal stories with broader societal issues. This non-linear storytelling approach encourages viewers to actively piece together the narrative, increasing their emotional connection to the characters.

The story centers on Sima, who feels trapped in her marriage to Behzad. She secretly searches for a new home for herself and her teenage daughter, Minoo. Meanwhile, Behzad tries to reconnect with his past by arranging a meeting with his ex-girlfriend. In contrast, Minoo takes a bold step by flirting with Keyvan at a traffic light, sparking a relationship that mirrors the exploration of youth amid the complexities of their environment.

One of the film’s most memorable scenes is when Sima and Behzad’s marital crisis is highlighted through a touching moment where they steal flowers, accompanied by the evocative song “Gaman Ba.” Fotouhi emphasizes that this scene captures the unraveling of their relationship, reflecting themes of longing and disconnection. He aims to show how personal struggles within a marriage often mirror larger societal issues, encouraging viewers to think about the emotional journeys of the characters set within Tehran’s sociopolitical realities.

Fotouhi points out a notable contrast between the older couple, Sima and Behzad, and the younger pair, Minoo and Keyvan. “This contrast serves to highlight the generational divide,” he explains. While Sima and Behzad wrestle with the breakdown of their relationship, Minoo and Keyvan explore hope and the possibility of love, representing the younger generation’s fresh perspective on life amid a challenging sociopolitical climate.

A key scene in the film involves a car ride with Sadaf, where the characters engage in dialogue that reveals their differing viewpoints over the course of a week. “I want the audience to feel the weight of the characters’ thoughts and emotions as they navigate their complex lives,” Fotouhi notes. This multifaceted storytelling invites viewers to deeply engage with the characters, slowly uncovering their experiences and emotions as the story unfolds.

In conclusion, “Boomerang” captures a week in the lives of its characters, offering a sociological portrait of modern Tehran. It shows the struggle of a man facing a decaying marriage while a youthful couple’s blossoming romance provides a glimmer of hope. Through his unique narrative style, Shahab Fotouhi invites audiences to reflect on the complex intersections of love, despair, and societal challenges that define the human experience.

Plot