Adjustment (2022)

You know, despite all the repression that Iran has been known for in recent years - they do still make some really quite empowering cinema, and this is a potent and effective short example. It tells the story of a young boy coming to terms with his own sexuality, but with the prejudices of his peers and parents all round. The young Moeid Asoudeh turns in quite an assured performance as the young "Shakrokh" who takes a fairly unique approach to meeting this head on and, with the help of his enlightened teacher (Mansouri Nasiri) might just offer some light at the end of the tunnel. It tackles homophobia, sure - but also introduces a sense that bullying and intolerance can be imbued in children from a very early age! It's well worth a watch, and a think.