Film: Facing Mirrors

Middle East Cinema Series: Facing Mirrors

Negar Azarbayjani, Iran/German, 2011, 102 mins
In Persian with English subtitles
Set in contemporary Iran, FACING MIRRORS is a story of an unlikely and daring friendship that develops despite social norms and religious beliefs. Although Rana is a traditional wife and mother, she is forced to drive a cab to pay off the debt that keeps her husband in prison. By chance she picks up the wealthy and rebellious Edi, who is desperately awaiting a passport to leave the country. At first Rana attempts to help, but when she realizes that Edi is transgender, a dangerous series of conflicts arises. Directed by Negar Azarbayjani, FACING MIRRORS is the first narrative film from Iran to feature a transgender main character.