Nader Saeivar’s The Witness (Shahed) clinically and powerfully portrays the bravery of those who stand up and refuse to be intimidated.
Director: Nader Saeivar
Genre: Drama
Run Time: 100′
Venice World Premiere: September 5, 2024
Release Date: TBA
The Witness (Shahed) quite subtly delivers an incredibly impactful message. It’s an example of pointed, powerful filmmaking, in which writer/director Nader Saeivar highlights a wider issue through a personal lens, encapsulating the struggles of many through an Iranian woman who dares to disagree, challenge and disobey the ‘powers that be’.
When retired teacher Tarlan (Maryam Boubani) accidentally witnesses a murder, one committed by a man with very influential connections, she refuses to be intimidated into remaining silent. As her past political activism is used against her by a regime that is complicit in covering up the crimes of those in power, Tarlan must decide whether to bow to the incessant pressure or continue to pursue justice.
The Witness is an example of pointed, powerful filmmaking. In simply telling a story like this, there’s inevitably an inherent tension and political presence. Saeivar, alongside co-writer Jafar Panahi – another director that’s no stranger to using film as a political tool –, doesn’t necessarily engage directly with the upper echelons of the regime, but The Witness’ purpose is to highlight how no-one is free from intimidation if their actions go against the grain.
Tarlan is a formidable figure. A spokesperson for the teacher’s union at school with a record of jail time for protesting, she is not a woman who’s inclined to acquiesce. She’s an inherently good person who won’t be intimidated into losing her dignity, even at the insistence of those closest to her. Boubani is a solid centre point for the film to revolve around, tough and stoic whilst also being nurturing and emotive, and she delivers a truly captivating performance.
The film itself doesn’t particularly build towards any dramatics, nor does it waste much time on irrelevant details. Instead, it is almost clinical in its focus on storytelling, because the point Saeivar is making is that situations like this are not unusual. Women like Tarlan are coerced, intimidated, threatened and, in the worst of cases, killed for not complying. And The Witness’ final scene plays out as almost a way of honouring them, of recognising their sacrifices and struggles, and relaying the message that their voices are being heard.
It’s an unexpectedly emotional way to end a film that is, for the most part, pretty low-key. Saeivar clearly understands that the power is in acknowledging these stories thoughtfully, poignantly and respectfully. As such, The Witness is powerful, emotional, infuriating and hopeful, all at the same time. It’s dedicated to honouring the women who are brave enough to fight for their rights and their freedoms. Not just in Iran, but all around the world.
The Witness (Shahed) had its World Premiere at the Venice Film Festival on September 5, 2024. Read our list of films to watch at the 2024 Venice Film Festival!
