Leila (1996)
Runtime: 2 hrs 9 mins
Synopsis: Modern sensibilities clash with ancient customs in this poetic, emotional film from acclaimed Iranian director Dariush Mehrjui. Newlyweds Reza and Leila--wealthy, young, deeply in love--face a crisis when Leila is diagnosed as infertile. The couple agrees that they don't need... Modern sensibilities clash with ancient customs in this poetic, emotional film from acclaimed Iranian director Dariush Mehrjui. Newlyweds Reza and Leila--wealthy, young, deeply in love--face a crisis when Leila is diagnosed as infertile. The couple agrees that they don't need children, but Leila is still burdened with feelings of inadequacy, which are compounded by her mother-in-law's unrelenting demands for a child. Invoking tradition, Reza's mother insists that Leila must help find a second wife for him, one capable of producing a male heir. [More]
Genre: Foreign Films
Starring: Leila Hatami, Ali Mosaffa, Mohamad Reza Sharifinia, Jamileh Sheikhi
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Reviews
A compelling Iranian production, far less portentous than most movies from the country, and more emotionally potent.
A richly developed psychodrama that reveals the crucial role self-esteem plays in our relationships.
This is a very compelling and subtle film, it shows the current conflict in Iran between modernity and Islamic tradition.
A powerfully articulated and subtle drama from famous Iranian director Dariush Mehrjui.
From the first frame to the last, you feel an intimacy with Leila that is the result of flawless direction and excellent writing.
A film of great sadness, the tragedy of a love torn apart by each partner's overeagerness to please the other.

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