I saw the film late last night and realized that for a simple storyline, the film can be interpreted on multiple levels of complexity depending on the age and interest of the person/group that one chooses to discuss it with. I ordered the DVD right away so that my wife and my 5-year old daughter, who were fast alseep by then, can also appreciate it.
I think that for my daughter, promoting her to understand what you describe in your first paragraph is very appropriate, and it is for that reason I want my daughter to be introduced to this little gem of a film.
However, for a grown-up like myself, I think that a realization of "Iranians are just like us" and to reaffirm the importance of tolerance, understanding, and that humanity is universal is just as valid. It was a sort of reality check for me; having grown up hearing the news about Iran such as Ayatollah and his Islamic Revolution, Iran-Iraq War, the Hostage Crisis, fatwa placed on Salman Rushdie and now Ahmadinejad, I realized I have inevitably acquired a stereotype against the country of Iran. The Iranians, both rich and poor, however, do go on with their lives just like any other citizens of the world. In fact, I felt a tinge of nostalgia while observing the destitute but simple and loving life of the protagonist's family.
As my daughter grows more mature and could take on more complex topics such as politics, religion, war and history, I hope that I can introduce layers of issues that has been discussed here on this thread.
Remarkable film indeed, for the story can be ported to any culture at any given time (in fact, Wiki notes that the story was adapted for a Singaporean production).
***spoiler here***
Despite the last scene, when Zahra goes into the house disappointed for Ali did not come in third, I know that having witnessed their interaction up to that point, all will be well by the time the father comes home with sneakers for both of them.
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