Green Days [Iran]

A documentary that incorporates fictionalised narration into real locations and situations, ‘Green Days’ follows a young Iranian girl who seeks to regain her faith in a system that once was with the upcoming 2009 election.

Whilst I thought the content of the film was interesting, and there were quite a few things I didn’t know about the 2009 election in Iran, I was disappointed in the compiling of the information. The mobile phone footage, although necessary to show the aftermath of the election, would have been better if the audio was cleaned up a little more. I also thought there were quite a few times where I thought certain things could be elaborated on with some background information, or cut down because I felt it slowed the pacing right down.

However, this problem could be argued by the style in which the film is shot. Being told as a narrative rather than a presentation of the facts / theories, there were some fantastic conversations (as many of the ‘interviews’ were presented) from the various supporters of the opposition candidate, and the shots of the days leading up to the voting were all full of energy.

The lead character, Ava, is charismatic and believable, but also over the top in her actions thanks to her background in theatre. It’s a great mix which for some might detract from the overall feel of the film, but I thought assisted in creating a contrast between her thoughts and the general atmosphere around her.

It’s an interesting viewing, as it is presented a little differently to most documentaries out there, but it may not be for everyone.

Score: 2.5 out of 5

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