The film Cause of Death: Unknown, directed by Ali Zarnegar, emerges as a significant work in a bleak and trying time when the talents and potential of Iranian cinema are being recklessly squandered by the dominance of superficial comedies. This is a thoughtful, well-crafted social film that makes effective use of narrative elements, skillfully generates dramatic tension, and demonstrates both flair and awareness. With his first feature film, Zarnegar proves himself capable in directing actors and making creative use of technical elements such as lighting, color, and sound. The film falls into the “road movie” genre, which typically seeks to…
Author: Ali Amini Najafi
Ali Amini Najafi
Ali Amini Najafi was born in March 1956. He pursued his studies in various institutions across Iran, France, and Germany. Since 1975, he has written art critiques and essays for Persian-language publications. He has published books on Brecht, Buñuel, Pasolini, Havel, and others. He emigrated from Iran on February 20, 1984. He is currently retired and counting the days until he can return to his homeland.