The organisers of the 11th Edition of Bengaluru International Film Festival picked Iran as the focus country and the audience couldn’t get enough of the films from the region.
Hattrick, a film by Ramtin Lavafi, was one such film which saw a packed theatre. The film had the audience rapt in attention and also evoked apt reactions. Hattrick is a film that tells a story, creates immense mystery, has light moments and yet is simple.
The simplicity lies in the film’s narration. Set in not more than three to four locations, the entire film travels deep into the characters lives.
As the story unravels, the audience will feel the shock, sadness and joy along with Farzad (Amir Jadidi), his wife Lida (Parinaz Izadyar), their friend Keivan (Saber Abar) and his girlfriend Raha (Mahoor Alvand).
The main plot begins with the four friends on their way to their homes from a party when Farzad, who is driving, hits something or someone. But he chooses to drive away.
They are engulfed with worry, guilt and even anger. What follows is just discussion that leads from one thing to another and brings in focus some uncomfortable truths and hypocrisy of the characters.
But Hattrick is not your everyday thriller which will keep the audience on the edge of their seats. Rather, it is an entertaining piece of work that conveys some serious messages, without creating any tension.
Amir Jadidi and Parinaz Izadyar play their characters to such perfection, that one will find Farzad’s emotions childlike and beautiful.
At times, films that have nothing but only conversations tend to move at a slow pace, but not Hattrick. With every conversation, the audience is left wondering if there will be a serious revelation or a fun, everyday joke. Either of the two will definitely keep you glued to your seats.
The four main actors win every scene that is beautifully placed by Lavafi, who not only speaks volumes with small scenes, but is also successful at creating a lasting impression on the audiences’ mind with this masterpiece.
Hattrick will be screened at the BIFFES 2019 on February 28, Thursday at 4:20 pm at Screen 5.