Movie spotlight
A Dragon Arrives!
On Jan. 22, 1965, the day before the Iranian prime minister is assassinated, a car drives up to a shipwreck. Inside the wreck, a banished political prisoner has hung himself and the walls are covered in diary entries, literary quotes, and strange symbols. Fifty years later, the evidence, including intelligence tape recordings, is found in a box. The contents attest to the fact that the inspector and his colleagues were arrested, but why?
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1960s Iran, a geologist is sent to a remote island to investigate a mysterious phenomenon: a series of earthquakes that have stopped, but a local legend speaks of a dragon's arrival coinciding with these events. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a story of political intrigue, forbidden love, and the suppression of truth. The film blends historical events with fantastical elements to explore themes of censorship and resistance.
Critical Reception
A Dragon Arrives! garnered attention for its unique blend of historical mystery and surrealism. Critics praised its ambitious storytelling and atmospheric direction, though some found its narrative intentionally opaque. Audiences were intrigued by its unconventional approach to Iranian cinema.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its bold and original narrative style.
Appreciated for its atmospheric and visually striking presentation.
Some viewers found the film's surreal and allegorical nature challenging to interpret.
Google audience: Information not available.
Awards & Accolades
Premiered at the 66th Berlin International Film Festival.
Fun Fact
The film is set in 1969, during the same year as the Apollo 11 moon landing, which is subtly referenced, symbolizing humanity's reach for the unknown, a theme mirrored in the film's own exploration of mysteries.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources