When Silence Speaks Louder Than Words

Read Time:4 Minute, 41 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
In the Shadow of the Cypress
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Genre: Animation, Drama, War, Short
Year Released: 2023, 2025
Runtime: 20m
Director(s): Hossein Molayemi, Shirin Sohani
Writer(s): Hossein Molayemi, Shirin Sohani
Where To Watch: shown at the 2025 Slamdance Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: A story doesn’t need grand spectacles or elaborate action sequences to leave an impression. A great story doesn’t rely on extravagant visuals or in-depth dialogue to carve its space in a viewer’s mind. Instead, it pulls you in with the silence, restraint, and raw emotional core. IN THE SHADOW OF THE CYPRESS is one such film—a quiet, contemplative experience that doesn’t force its way into your thoughts but lingers there, unfolding at its own pace. This beautifully animated short, directed by Hossein Molayemi and Shirin Sohani, examines the unspoken struggles between a father and daughter, framed against trauma, isolation, and a desperate search for connection.

The film tells the story of a former ship captain whose past is an unshakable burden, shaping every moment of his present. His daughter shares his secluded existence, bound not just by love but by the weight of his pain. He is a man caught between memory and reality, unable to move forward, and she, in turn, is trapped in the pull of his suffering. The tension between them isn’t explosive—it’s slow-burning, something that simmers in quiet glances and heavy silences rather than dramatic confrontations.

Then, an unexpected event occurs—a stranded whale washes ashore, setting the stage for the story’s emotional turning point. The daughter instinctively rushes to help, pouring her energy into saving the animal. On the other hand, her father withdraws further, retreating into himself rather than confronting the crisis. Their opposing reactions reflect their struggles: She fights to heal and preserve life while he remains emotionally paralyzed, incapable of breaking free from his past.

The film’s animation mirrors this restrained storytelling approach. Instead of vibrant, dynamic visuals, it opts for a muted, earthy palette—browns, beiges, and deep blues that reflect the somber tone of the narrative. The hand-drawn aesthetic, infused with Persian influences, gives the film a unique texture, creating an atmosphere that is both intimate and immersive. Every frame is deliberate, every movement meaningful, ensuring that the visuals carry an emotional weight even in simplicity.

Silence is not just an aesthetic decision—it’s a fundamental part of how the story unfolds. Without words to guide the audience, every expression, every shift in body language, and every moment becomes more pronounced. This approach forces viewers to rely more on their interpretations than explicit emotional cues.

The score by Afshin Azizi complements this visual storytelling. The music breathes life into the moments, serving as an emotional compass that guides the viewer through the highs and lows of the character’s journey. The compositions are subtle yet deeply affecting, enhancing the story’s emotion without overwhelming it. The score understands when to linger in sorrow and when to hint at hope, crafting an atmosphere that lingers long after the final scene.

Bringing this film to life was no small feat. The production, which lasted over six years, faced significant obstacles: economic instability, political tensions, and difficulty sustaining an independent animated project in Iran. Despite these challenges, the filmmakers remained committed to their vision, drawing from deeply personal experiences to shape their characters and themes. Sohani’s war veteran father directly inspired the protagonist, adding a layer of authenticity that resonates throughout the film.

What stands out most is how effectively it portrays PTSD without leaning on conventional storytelling crutches. Instead of dramatic flashbacks or exposition-heavy dialogue, the trauma is woven into every interaction, every moment of hesitation, every unspoken thought. It feels authentic, never sensationalized, and that is what makes it so impactful.

More than anything, this film reminds us that animation isn’t just a medium for lighthearted entertainment or grand adventure. This film finds power in restraint, proving that sometimes, the quietest stories are the ones that speak the loudest.

IN THE SHADOW OF THE CYPRESS doesn’t demand attention—it earns it. It takes its time, asks its audience to listen closely, and, in return, offers a deeply moving exploration of grief, healing, and the fragile nature of human connection.

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[photo courtesy of BARFAK ANIMATION STUDIO, THE ANIMATION SHOWCASE]

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