“Close-Up” is a 1990 Iranian film directed by Abbas Kiarostami that blends documentary and fiction to tell the story of Hossain Sabzian, a man who impersonates the famous filmmaker Mohsen Makhmalbaf. The film delves into themes of identity, reality, and the nature of filmmaking, offering a profound commentary on human nature and societal norms.
Metafiction
Metafiction is a literary device where the story comments on itself or the conventions of storytelling.
Movie Scene Device Example Courtroom scenes where real and fictional elements blend The blending of documentary and fiction comments on the nature of storytelling. The final scene where Sabzian meets Makhmalbaf The merging of reality and performance underscores the metafictional theme .
Irony
Irony is the expression of meaning using language that normally signifies the opposite.
Movie Scene Device Example Sabzian’s impersonation of Makhmalbaf The irony of Sabzian gaining respect through deception highlights societal values. The courtroom’s serious treatment of the impersonation The juxtaposition of the trivial act and the serious legal process emphasizes irony .
Symbolism
Symbolism is the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities.
Movie Scene Device Example The use of the clapperboard in the courtroom Symbolizes the intersection of film and reality. Sabzian’s fascination with cinema Represents the power of art to transform and escape reality.
Allegory
An allegory is a narrative that serves as an extended metaphor .
Movie Scene Device Example Sabzian’s trial Represents the larger societal judgment on individual identity and authenticity. The blending of real people playing themselves Serves as an allegory for the blurred lines between reality and fiction .
Juxtaposition
Juxtaposition is placing two elements side by side to highlight their differences.
Movie Scene Device Example The wealthy Ahankhah family and Sabzian’s poverty Highlights the social and economic disparities. Real and reenacted scenes in the film Emphasizes the blurred lines between reality and fiction .
Foreshadowing
Foreshadowing is a literary device used to hint at future events.
Movie Scene Device Example Early conversations about cinema Hints at the pivotal role film will play in Sabzian’s life. Sabzian’s admiration for Makhmalbaf Foreshadows his eventual impersonation.
Motif
A motif is a recurring element that has symbolic significance.
Movie Scene Device Example Recurrent references to cinema and filmmaking Reinforces the film’s exploration of art and reality. Repeated shots of Sabzian alone Emphasizes his isolation and yearning for connection.
Metaphor
A metaphor is a figure of speech that directly refers to one thing by mentioning another.
Movie Scene Device Example Sabzian as a director of his own life His impersonation acts as a metaphor for directing one’s own narrative . The courtroom as a stage Represents the performative nature of societal roles.
Paradox
A paradox is a statement that contradicts itself but reveals a truth.
Movie Scene Device Example Sabzian’s lie leading to truth His deception reveals deeper truths about identity and reality. The film as both a documentary and fiction The paradoxical nature challenges the audience’s perception of truth.
Realism
Realism is the attempt to represent subject matter truthfully.
Movie Scene Device Example Actual trial footage Enhances the film’s authenticity and emotional impact. Interviews with real people Adds depth and credibility to the narrative .
Character Studies
Hossain Sabzian
Device Explanation Metaphor Sabzian as the director of his life, illustrating control and manipulation. Juxtaposition His poverty contrasted with the Ahankhah family’s wealth highlights his desires and societal divisions.
Mohsen Makhmalbaf
Device Explanation Symbolism Represents the idealized figure of the artist in Iranian society. Irony The respect he commands juxtaposed with Sabzian’s deceptive admiration highlights differing perceptions of worth.
Character Dynamics
The relationship between Sabzian and the Ahankhah family serves as a microcosm of broader societal dynamics. Through juxtaposition irony metafiction as real people reenact their own lives.
Identity and Deception
Device Explanation Allegory Sabzian’s impersonation as a larger commentary on personal and societal identity. Metaphor The trial as a metaphor for societal judgment on authenticity and identity.
Reality vs. Fiction
Device Explanation Metafiction The blending of real and reenacted scenes challenges the viewer’s perception of reality. Paradox The film’s simultaneous documentary and fictional nature highlights the fluid boundaries between truth and fiction .
Power of Art
Device Explanation Symbolism Cinema as a symbol for transformation and escape. Motif Recurrent references to filmmaking underscore art’s impact on life.
Literary Device Technique Explanation Metafiction Real footage Enhances the blending of documentary and fiction . Irony Juxtaposition of shotsContrasts serious legal processes with the triviality of the act. Symbolism Close-ups Emphasize symbolic elements like the clapperboard. Allegory Naturalistic acting Reinforces the allegorical themes of identity and judgment. Juxtaposition Editing Highlights disparities and contrasting elements within the film. Foreshadowing Dialogue Early conversations hint at future events and developments. Motif Repeated imagery Reinforces recurring themes and ideas. Metaphor Visual metaphors Visual storytelling enhances metaphorical elements. Paradox Blended narrative Challenges conventional storytelling to reveal deeper truths. Realism Handheld camera work Adds authenticity and immediacy to the narrative .
Scene Selection
Sabzian’s Arrest Scene : YouTube Link
Breakdown : This scene captures the tension and absurdity of Sabzian’s arrest, using irony realism to highlight societal contradictions and personal desperation.
Courtroom Confession Scene : YouTube Link
Breakdown : Sabzian’s confession in court is a powerful moment where metafiction and allegory
Final Scene with Makhmalbaf : YouTube Link
Breakdown : The meeting between Sabzian and Makhmalbaf blends metaphor symbolism
Interactive Quiz
Test your knowledge of the literary devices in “Close-Up” with this fun quiz!
What device blends real and fictional elements in “Close-Up”?
Which character is used as a metaphor for directing one’s own life?
A) Hossain Sabzian
B) Mohsen Makhmalbaf
C) Ahankhah family member
D) Court Judge
What device is highlighted by the courtroom scenes?
Which theme is explored through the motif of filmmaking?
A) Love
B) Power of Art
C) Justice
D) Revenge
Answers: 1) B, 2) A, 3) C, 4) B
