“Kiarostami, like no other filmmaker, has a vision of human scale that is simultaneously epic and precisely minuscule.” - Stephen Holden, New York Times
“Kiarostami is in no rush, but the respect and love he shows for his characters, and the confidence and simplicity of his technique, make TASTE OF CHERRY a satisfying experience.” - Edward Guthmann, San Francisco Chronicle
A truly haunting film, TASTE OF CHERRY inspired critics to use phrases like “life-affirming” without a trace of irony. A middle-aged intellectual has resolved to commit suicide for reasons that are never revealed. In the course of a search for someone who will agree to bury his body at the appointed time, he picks up hitch-hikers in his SUV, including a soldier and a maintenance worker, and makes his odd pitch. The film and the quest are one, ultimately a profound process of discovery about life’s meaning and the sum of its worth. TASTE OF CHERRY was initially banned in Iran for its forbidden theme of suicide, and it went on to win the prestigious Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. (BS) Screened in 2019 as part of Abbas Kiarostami.
Festivals, Awards & Nominations
Winner - Palme d'Or, Cannes Film Festival
25 For 25
To celebrate 25 years on State Street, the 25 For 25 series revisits standout titles from our State Street history, spotlighting films that have lit up our screens since 2001 and reflecting on the Siskel Film Center’s programming legacy. Each selection connects to a past Siskel program, highlighting the Siskel Film Center’s long-standing commitment to diverse and innovative curation.
The Film Center is ADA accessible. This presentation will be projected without open captions. The theater is hearing-loop equipped. For accessibility requests, please email filmcenter@saic.edu