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Synopsis
Istade Bar Shanehaye Gorbeh – A Poetic Symphony of Dreams and Laughter
Film Istade Bar Shanehaye Gorbeh – Doble Farsi فیلم ایستاده بر شانه های گربه دوبله فارسی – Watch on FilmeFarsi
However, after traveling from Nova Scotia to Prague, they’re kicked off the tour and must resort to busking to survive and find a way back home. Ricky and Julian must figure out how to make their dreams come true again — if that’s still possible.
In the ever-evolving landscape of Iranian cinema, few films manage to capture the delicate dance between art and humor as gracefully as Istade Bar Shanehaye Gorbeh (Standing on the Shoulders of a Cat). Directed by the visionary Kaveh Yeganeh and released in 2024, this genre-defying film elegantly blends music, comedy, and a splash of magical realism, creating an experience that is both emotionally resonant and wildly imaginative.
Anchored by strong performances from its leads, Mehrdad Safavi, Leila Aram, and rising star Arian Khosravi, this whimsical journey explores the fragility of dreams, the absurdity of fame, and the unspoken wisdom of cats.
A Surreal Plot with a Heartfelt Core
Set in modern-day Tehran, Istade Bar Shanehaye Gorbeh follows Siamak, a struggling street musician who performs with a battered guitar and a surprising sidekick—a stray cat named Sufi. Tired of obscurity and rejected by mainstream record labels, Siamak begins composing a musical inspired by the everyday lives of animals, guided—quite literally—by the mysterious behaviors and seemingly telepathic guidance of Sufi.
As the narrative unfolds, Sufi becomes more than just a companion—he’s a spiritual guru, a silent critic, and perhaps, a symbol of everything that Siamak suppresses. The plot is peppered with comic moments, particularly when Siamak joins forces with a quirky theater director (played with brilliant eccentricity by Fariba Hashemi) to stage his unconventional musical. But behind the comedy lies a poignant commentary on the creative struggle, artistic rejection, and the dream of being seen and heard in a noisy world.
Direction and Cinematic Style
Kaveh Yeganeh’s direction is a masterclass in balance. He shifts fluidly between tones—melancholic and manic, humorous and harrowing—without losing the core emotional truth of the story. His background in musical theater is evident in the dynamic rhythm of the film, where dialogue often flirts with melody, and scenes are choreographed with an almost dance-like fluidity.
The cinematography, led by Mona Rezazadeh, enhances the film’s lyrical quality. Wide-angle shots of bustling bazaars are juxtaposed with intimate, softly lit frames that give space for Siamak’s introspection. Colors play a vital role—warm ambers in scenes of connection, icy blues during solitude—inviting viewers to feel every emotional beat with their eyes.
A Stellar Cast of Human (and Feline) Performers
Mehrdad Safavi gives one of the most compelling performances of his career as Siamak. His portrayal is nuanced, mixing quiet desperation with bursts of chaotic charm. He plays off the cat—Sufi, brilliantly trained and expressive—with such chemistry that one could believe they truly communicate.
Leila Aram brings depth to her role as Nava, a disillusioned violinist who reluctantly joins Siamak’s musical project. Her scenes provide both emotional grounding and gentle comic relief, particularly during her skeptical interactions with Sufi.
And of course, credit must be given to the animal trainer, Jalal Mehrabi, who worked with the feline actor behind Sufi. It’s rare for a cat to command the screen with such presence, and yet here, it becomes the film’s spiritual axis.
Themes: Artistic Identity, Solitude, and the Language of Music
At its core, Istade Bar Shanehaye Gorbeh is about listening—to ourselves, to others, and to the silence in between. Through the metaphor of a cat’s mysterious ways, the film explores how creativity often emerges from quiet observation rather than loud ambition.
There are also gentle critiques of the music industry, society’s treatment of misfits, and the illusion of virality. But rather than preach, the film invites reflection through humor and absurdity.
It’s a musical love letter to those who keep creating even when no one is watching.
Final Verdict
Istade Bar Shanehaye Gorbeh is not just a film—it’s a meditation wrapped in laughter, a song played in an alley, a purring whisper of encouragement to every unseen artist. With rich visuals, unforgettable characters, and a soundtrack that stays with you long after the credits roll, it stands out as one of the most original and heartfelt Persian films of recent years.
Whether you’re a fan of music-infused narratives or quirky indie comedies, this gem deserves a spot on your watchlist.
👉 For more films that blend music and storytelling, explore the Music Genre section on FilmeFarsi. If you’re in the mood for something lighter and equally creative, check out our top Comedy Films too!
To see viewer ratings and global reception, visit the Istade Bar Shanehaye Gorbeh IMDb page (when available).
Enjoyed this review? Discover more in-depth analyses and movie highlights at FilmeFarsi.com. Whether you’re into emotional dramas, surreal tales, or comedic masterpieces, we bring the best of Persian cinema to you.
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