The Last Fiction

The Last Fiction is a dazzling animated feature film that was first released in 2018. Known to be a landmark in Iranian cinema, it boasts a stellar cast comprising Leila Hatami, Hamed Behdad, and Ashkan Khatibi. The movie reflects the impressive skills of the Iranian animators and presents a pioneering fusion of age-old fables with cutting-edge cinematic techniques.

Directed by Ashkan Rahgozar, this enchanting narrative is an adaptation from one of the most ancient books worldwide, “The Shahnameh” (The Book of Kings) by Ferdowsi, the Persian poet. The said book is acclaimed as an epic masterpiece of Persian literature, spanning a thousand-plus years of the country's history till the advent of Islam. Intriguingly, The Last Fiction focuses on a notably darker episode from the Shahnameh - the treacherous reign of Zahak, the sinister ruler of darkness.

The Last Fiction introduces us to the world of ancient Persia. It is set largely in a mythical city, a magical setting with a Mediterranean flare and architecture suggestive of ancient Persia. Our protagonist is named Jamshid, who is initially seen as a compassionate king loved by his subjects but is soon replaced by the villainous ruler Zahak following an unexplained transformation.

The enigmatic character, Zahak, is voiced by Hamed Behdad, who compellingly portrays the transition of his character from being a kind-hearted individual to a tyrant. Zahak seems to have been fooled by Ahriman, the devil-representing figure, into seizing the plot's power. However, he gradually becomes tormented by monstrous visions fueled by regrets and fears. Meanwhile, Leila Hatami lends her voice to Rudabe, the maiden trapped in Zahak's palace. Her voice acting adds a lot to the authenticity and depth of the character. The hero, Kaveh the blacksmith, is depicted by Ashkan Khatibi, whose journey forms the backbone of the story.

A unique aspect of The Last Fiction lies not only in its imaginative narrative that depicts the uneasy tension between good and evil but also in its representation of the clash between divine powers and human aspirations. The film is rich in metaphorical content and successfully addresses complex ideas such as fate, courage, and desire.

The Last Fiction is also noted for its visual beauty and aesthetics. The animation offers a wealth of fine details with colorful euphony, stimulating the senses throughout. The majestic landscapes, the intricate design of the architectural structures, and the vibrant characters come alive due to the meticulous hand-drawn animation and digital technology, which is a tribute to the director’s visionary approach.

A pivotal role in the movie's immersive experience is played by the spectacular soundtrack composed by Christophe Rezai. Exploring a broad spectrum of Iranian and international motifs, the score enhances the mysterious aura of the narrative and adds a fascinating layer to the viewing experience. The music serves as a perfect supplement to the eye-catching visuals and binds the entire story in a harmonious symphony of sight and sound.

Another noteworthy element is the script, which, even as it wades through a darker episode from an old text, weaves a gripping narrative that appeals to the contemporary audience. It carefully balances the essence of the original text with modern storytelling tactics, making it not just a re-telling but a re-interpretation of a timeless story.

In a nutshell, The Last Fiction incorporates a timeless tale from a cherished text and presents it through a blend of traditional folklore and contemporary stylistic animation techniques. It successfully creates a mystical universe that is woven together by an expressive voice cast, beautiful visuals, and enticing music. The film's balance of darkness and light, fear and courage, tyranny and liberation make it much more than an animated movie; it is an experience that transcends beyond its runtime and offers viewers a profound insight into Persian mythology and culture. Much like the enduring contribution of Shahnameh, this 2018 film serves as an exquisite addition to the cultural legacy of Iran – a must-watch for all connoisseurs of art, storytelling, and spirituality.