Leila
Leila

Leila

2011Movie85 minFrench

Gab has a well-ordered life: a fiancée, a wealthy family. Leïla, who struggles to juggle her studies, odd jobs, and a brother to support, does not allow herself to live her own life... When Gab meets Leïla, it is a clash of worlds, the beginning of a great love story that will collide violently with reality.

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Insights

IMDb7.4/10
Director: Dariush MehrjuiGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

In contemporary Tehran, a couple faces marital strain due to their inability to conceive a child. The husband, pressured by his mother to have an heir, suggests his wife consider taking a second, younger wife to bear him a child. Leila grapples with this devastating proposal, leading to a profound emotional and existential crisis as she confronts societal expectations and her own desires.

Critical Reception

Dariush Mehrjui's 'Leila' is a poignant exploration of love, sacrifice, and societal pressures within Iranian culture. The film garnered critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of a complex marital dilemma and its strong performances, particularly from Leila Hatami. It is often cited as a significant work in contemporary Iranian cinema, known for its understated emotional depth and challenging themes.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its deep emotional resonance and subtle storytelling.
  • Leila Hatami's performance is widely considered a standout, conveying a spectrum of emotions with grace.
  • The film tackles difficult societal issues with nuance and sensitivity.

Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this film is not readily available in a consolidated format. However, general audience reactions often highlight the film's emotional impact and thought-provoking narrative.

Fun Fact

The film was selected as the Iranian entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 84th Academy Awards, but it was not nominated.

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