MOVIE REVIEW
In the Garden of Tulips
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Genre: Short
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 14m
Director(s): Julia Elihu
Writer(s): Ava Lalezarzadeh
Cast: Ava Lalezarzadeh, Ethan Rains, Kourosh Parsapour, Milad David, Ray Haratian, Navid Negahban
Where To Watch: TBA

RAVING REVIEW: In a portrayal set against the unsettling backdrop of the Iran-Iraq war, IN THE GARDEN OF TULIPS charts a profound journey through the lens of Caroline and her father as they navigate the volatile Iranian landscape. Directed by Julia Elihu and written by Ava Lalezarzadeh, the film brilliantly encapsulates the essence of personal strife and the relentless pursuit of liberty, engaging viewers with its authentic depiction and rich narrative depth. This is a film where the cinematography pulls you in; it’s part of the experience.

Julia Elihu harnesses her Iranian-Jewish heritage to infuse the film with personal and historical authenticity. She directs with a keen eye for the emotional undercurrents shaped by her family's narratives of escape and survival. In tandem, Ava Lalezarzadeh's script, drawn from her mother's survival story, offers a testament to the indomitable human spirit, enriching the film’s texture with deeply personal stakes.

Cinematographer Freddie Whitman's craft is instrumental in transposing the quintessential Iranian vista onto the screen, albeit filmed in Agua Dulce, Los Angeles County. Through his lens, the rugged landscapes and nuanced interplays of light become almost characters in their own right, enhancing the emotional gravity and pulling viewers deeper into the narrative fold.

The film’s soul, however, rests in the compelling performances by Ava Lalezarzadeh and Iman Nazemzadeh, who bring Caroline and her father, Sharif, to life. Their on-screen relationship, marked by portrayals and subtle emotional nuances, anchors the film’s narrative, delivering poignant moments of connection that underscore the resilience threaded through their journey.

This exploration of family and national identity amidst chaos grounds the narrative in relatable human experiences. It elevates the film's appeal to a broader audience, transcending cultural boundaries with its universal themes of perseverance and hope.

IN THE GARDEN OF TULIPS has garnered accolades, including "Best Live Action Short Film" at the St. Louis International Film Festival, underscoring its potential for Oscar recognition. The film's journey through the festival circuit is further distinguished by awards such as the "Youth Jury Award" at Aspen Shortsfest and the "Best Director Award" at the Joyce Forum Jewish Short Film Festival, marking it as a significant work within Elihu’s directorial portfolio.

Aaron Lemle's role as producer brings a polished sheen to the film’s overall aesthetic. His extensive experience contributes to a seamless integration of historical authenticity and flair. This meticulous crafting extends to the film's auditory layers, where the soundtrack complements the visual narrative, creating an immersive experience that resonates with viewers on multiple sensory levels.

As IN THE GARDEN OF TULIPS makes its rounds across the global film festival scene, it does more than narrate a wartime saga. It invites audiences to explore themes of conflict, resilience, and the enduring power of familial bonds. This film transcends conventional war narratives to explore war's impacts on the human condition. It is a beacon of narrative filmmaking that prompts profound reflection and discussion among its audience.

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[photo courtesy of IN THE GARDEN OF TULIPS, OLIV, PUBLIC SCHOOL PICTURES]

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