'Taxi Tehran (2015)' is an interesting experiment that pushes the boundaries of gorilla filmmaking. Its very existence is an act of rebellion, pushing back against the over-controlling Iranian government. It proves that there really is no excuse not to make a movie, or to complain about a 'small' budget. If you want it badly enough, if every fibre of your being urges to create, you should do it no matter the cost. This is the message that outlaw director Panahi imparts in this meta, social-realist drama that takes place entirely inside of a taxi. The vehicle is being by driven Panahi himself, playing a director who decides to make a covert picture by filming the occupants of his cab. In reality, the people he picks up are amateur actors. The flick still blends fact with fiction, though, and feels incredibly 'real' throughout. It's filled with charming, intelligent characters who each convey a different aspect of everyday Iran. This demystification is great; it shows that people are people no matter where you go. The piece doesn't shy away from criticising the very systems that force it to exist, though. It subtly jabs at governmental censorship and oppression, peeling back the confusion surrounding such a shadowy subject. The affair's 'on-the-streets' vibe is priceless, contributing the most to its strangely touching effect. It puts a smile on your face more than once but it's also rather sad. It's wonderfully conceived for such a stripped-back thing and it really flies by, to the point that you aren't really ready for it to end. It feels like a documentary; when you remind yourself that it isn't, it's rather bizarre. It's surprisingly good, even if it isn't exciting or suspenseful or, even, overly compelling. That's because it's engaging and intriguing, truly unlike anything I've seen before. It's actually pretty enjoyable and is probably the best version of itself possible. 7/10
Review of Taxi
