Direction: Maryam Moghaddam, Behtash Sanaeeha
Country: Iran
Iranian filmmakers Maryam Moghaddam and Behtash Sanaeeha bring us My Favourite Cake, a tragicomic romantic drama set in Tehran and starred by Lily Farhadpour and Esmail Mehrabi. Farhadpour portraits Mahin, a 70-year-old widow who, feeling stifled by loneliness and routine, decides to seek her personal freedom in a society closely monitored by the regime. Her journey brings her to Faramarz (Mehrabi), a divorced taxi driver and former soldier who mirrors her isolation. Their unexpected and spirited romance blossoms with ease; their dialogue feels natural, and their expressions of joy are vibrant. Love and optimism breathe new life into their world, casting their future in a hopeful light. But is there really a future for them?
The basic plot is infused with immeasurable joy and overwhelming sadness in equal measures, relying on the warmth of its characters and beautifully crafted imagery that radiates light and life. Mahin and Faramarz quickly become endearing to the audience, their happiness infectious as their one-night connection grows more meaningful with every frame.
My Favourite Cake offers an enriching blend of heartfelt storytelling subtly woven with political undertones expressed through repressed emotions, ethical conflicts, and the constant vigilance of nosy regime loyalists. Awarded at the Berlinale, this film presents a stirring and genuine portrayal of romance later in life, a slice of life that resonates deeply. Unfortunately, the directors were unable to attend the festival to receive their awards, as Iranian authorities confiscated their passports and imposed travel bans.
