Thanks wpqx,The Cyclist is one I've heard a lot about but never seen, good essay as well.

Daan (199 Don

Directed by Abolfazl Jalili

I assume that there must be a large problem with drugs in Iran although it's not something you hear about or that has come across in any film I've seen. From my first post in this section.

Don is a documentary style film concerning Farhad, a nine year old struggling to survive and help support his family, his father is a heroin addict who when he cant afford to pay for his habit will take and sell anything he can from his own home (even if it doesnt belong to his family). 

Jalili was inspired to make the film when he saw a boy working at a garage who would answer to any name, this was because he had no birth certificate, the film pretty much follows the daily routine of his life.

Due to his addiction, Farhads father has failed to get birth certificates for any of his children and because of this none of them can attend school. Instead Farhad works full time and we see his employment shift from a garage through several other menial tasks, all to help financially support his family. The performances are very natural and due to the circumstances very sad. Slightly reminiscent of Truffauts 400 Blows but with no safety net, children are existing under these conditions but at least the authorities are trying to get them into education rather than letting them rot in this way.

A film with a powerful message and one that shows us how lucky we are.

Difficult but recommended viewing.

Cheers Trev.

BBFC rating 15