Watch Hello Cinema

Hello Cinema is a 1995 Iranian film directed by Mohsen Makhmalbaf. The movie revolves around a group of people who have responded to an advertisement calling for "non-professional actors" to attend an audition for a new film that is being made. These people are not experienced actors, but they are all avid cinephiles who have a deep love and appreciation for cinema. They come from different backgrounds, both economically and socially, but all share the passion for the art of filmmaking.

As they gather at the audition location, they engage in discussions about the movies they love, their favorite scenes and actors, and what they think makes a great film. The tension and excitement build as they wait to be called in for their audition. The film subtly touches on the themes of cinema, self-expression, and community.

The main character of the movie is Farhad, played by Behzad Dorani, a young man who has always been passionate about cinema. He dreams of becoming a filmmaker himself someday, but his family strongly opposes that idea. Farhad is optimistic and hopeful, and he believes that the audition could be his big break. However, as the day goes on and he watches his fellow cinephiles audition, he learns that the world of cinema is not as glamorous as he had once imagined.

One of the aspiring actresses at the audition is a young woman named Shaghayeh, played by Shaghayeh Djodat. She is soft-spoken and shy, but she also has a great love for cinema. Like Farhad, she hopes that the audition will be a stepping stone towards a career in acting. However, her conservative father forbids her from pursuing that path, leading her to question what her true passion is.

Feizola Gashghai also stars in the film as a middle-aged man who has had a difficult life. He has been in and out of prison and struggles to find work to support himself and his family. However, he has a deep appreciation for cinema and sees it as a source of solace and escape from the harsh realities of his life.

Throughout the movie, the characters share their personal stories and experiences, revealing their struggles and aspirations. As they audition and interact with each other, they learn about themselves and grow as individuals. The film ultimately conveys a message of hope and the transformative power of cinema.

Hello Cinema is a beautifully crafted film that showcases the universality of cinema and its ability to bring people from all walks of life together. The film's subtle moments of humor, drama, and introspection make it a must-see for cinephiles and anyone interested in the power of storytelling. The performances by the non-professional actors are heartfelt and authentic, adding to the film's overall charm. It's even more impressive when you consider that the entire movie was shot in real-time, giving the audience a sense of being there with the characters at the audition. Overall, Hello Cinema is a touching and memorable film that leaves a lasting impression on its viewers.