Taste of Cherry
dir. Abbas Kiarostami · 1997
Life is a complex journey that often leads individuals to confront their deepest despair, yet the value of existence can be revealed through the connections we make with others.
Plot
A middle-aged Tehranian man, Mr. Badii is intent on killing himself and seeks someone to bury him after his demise. Driving around the city, the seemingly well-to-do Badii meets with numerous people, including a Muslim student, asking them to take on the job, but initially he has little luck. Eventually, Badii finds a man who is up for the task because he needs the money, but his new associate soon tries to talk him out of committing suicide.
Why watch
"Taste of Cherry" invites viewers into the existential journey of a man grappling with despair, touching on profound themes of life, death, and human connection within the urban tapestry of Tehran. Kiarostami's minimalist style and contemplative pacing create a meditative experience that resonates deeply with those seeking meaning in the mundane.
Talking points
- the ethics of assisted suicide
- the search for connection in urban life
- the portrayal of mental health in cinema
- the impact of socio-economic status on personal crises