Watch Santouri

Santouri, a drama released in 2007, is an Iran musical film directed by Dariush Mehrjui. It features an impressive cast with Bahram Radan, Golshifteh Farahani, and Masoud Rayegan in lead roles. The story revolves around an acclaimed Santour player named Ali Bolourchi (Bahram Radan), who unwillingly finds himself on the streets of Tehran, playing his instrument for small change. Ali used to be a renowned musician and has played Santour for many musicians in concerts and recordings. But now, he lives in poverty and struggles to make ends meet.

Despite the hardship, Ali has a strong feeling of responsibility towards his art and his family. After his wife and children left him, Ali was left alone and broke. He tries to earn enough money to get by and help his family, even though they are not with him anymore.

One of Ali’s neighbors named Roya (Golshifteh Farahani) is a vocal student who practices singing all day long. She is passionate about music and wants to be the best. Roya is curious about Ali and his musical background, but she doesn't initially believe that he was a prominent musician. However, as time goes on, she starts to realize that there might be more to Ali’s story than she expected.

As the film rolls on, the audience sees that Ali is a broken man, and his love for music has resulted in him losing everything he had. He starts playing the Santour for everyday people in the streets, and with Roya's help, he even gets a gig playing at a wedding. People appreciate his music, but he can never seem to earn enough to change his situation.

Despite being a world away from his glory days, Ali quietly returns to the music scene, hoping his talent can help him earn a living. In the end, his persistence, hard work, and dedication to music pay off, but not in the way that you might think.

Santouri takes a deep look into the life of the artist and highlights how the passion for art can destroy one's life. It shows the emotional struggles and consequences that an artist can face, which include sacrifice, alienation, isolation, and poverty. The film's portrayal of the life of an artist that has been forgotten in the world of music is outstanding.

Bahram Radan breathes considerable life into Ali's character, delivering a heart-wrenching performance that showcases his talent as an actor. Golshifteh Farahani perfectly complements Radan, playing Roya with a mix of curiosity and determination that lends the character a certain gravitas.

Masoud Rayegan who plays a record executive has a strong presence in the film, providing necessary contrast to Ali's plight. His character represents the world of the music industry, and how profit and fame are often put ahead of artistic knowledge.

Santouri's music is a standout in the film, with the use of Santour, a Persian hammered dulcimer instrument played by Ali creates a hauntingly beautiful sound that elevates the film's mood. The light and simple notes that it creates help to reveal the emotions of Ali's broken soul, and his passion for music.

In conclusion, Santouri is an exceptional film that captures the realities of an artist's life. It is a testament to the power of art and music, and its ability to alter and transform the lives of people. With its standout performances, outstanding music, and heart-wrenching plot, this is one film that you do not want to miss.