Note: This review contains spoilers!
Iranian films have long been celebrated on the global film festival circuit, standing as one of Asia’s strongest cinematic forces. My Favourite Cake, directed by Maryam Moghaddam and Behtash Sanaeeha, continues this tradition. Starring veteran Iranian actors Lily Farhadpour and Esmail Mehrabi, this 97-minute film has garnered prestigious accolades this year at the Berlin International Film Festival and the Chicago International Film Festival. Alongside another critically acclaimed Iranian film, The Seed of the Sacred Fig, My Favourite Cake was also screened at the Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival (JAFF) 2024 earlier this month.
The story revolves around Mahin (Farhadpour), an elderly woman living alone in her Tehran home. Having lost her husband three decades ago, her two daughters now reside abroad with their families. Her days are filled with mundane routines at home and occasional gatherings with her peers. One day, she decides to step out and, by chance, meets Faramarz (Mehrabi), an elderly taxi driver, at a restaurant. Seizing the opportunity to get to know him better, Mahin offers to drop him off at his house. Unbeknownst to them, this seemingly innocent gesture sets the stage for a night of closeness and an unforeseen, devastating tragedy.
Iranian cinema often delves into themes of political oppression, portraying the struggles of citizens under the post-Revolution regime, which imposes stringent rules under the guise of religious principles. Iconic films like Taxi, Persepolis, A Separation, and Hero have masterfully depicted these themes, highlighting the government’s use of law enforcement to intimidate its citizens. These films also shed light on the plight of filmmakers, many of whom have been blacklisted, imprisoned, or forced into exile.
Similarly, My Favourite Cake incorporates a subtle critique of societal restrictions. In one scene set in a public park, a morality officer attempts to detain women for not adhering to hijab regulations, with Mahin stepping in to defend them. While this scene might feel somewhat forced, it serves to underline the film’s thematic focus. Yet, even without this moment, viewers would likely anticipate the story’s trajectory.
From the opening scenes, the film establishes a melancholic atmosphere, emphasizing Mahin’s loneliness through static shots. The narrative takes a romantic turn when she meets Faramarz. Their growing intimacy unfolds through light-hearted conversations and flirtations, complemented by the occasional sip of alcohol. Their budding romance temporarily overrides their fears of the morality police and their nosy, government-loyalist neighbor. These tender moments are beautifully enhanced by warm lighting and detailed interior and exterior settings.
However, in a single, pivotal moment, the tone shifts dramatically into a “horror thriller.” The use of horror elements is evident, particularly in the climactic final scenes. The camera moves unnaturally, slowly panning through the room as if preparing the audience for a startling jump scare. Eerie music intensifies the tension as the camera completes a 360-degree sweep, capturing Mahin’s escalating panic. The horror culminates in a chilling sequence where Mahin drags a corpse to her backyard and buries it. The final shot—a hauntingly slow zoom of Mahin’s silhouette from behind—lingers in the viewer’s mind, leaving an unsettling impression.
Through the typical themes of Iranian cinema, My Favourite Cake explores its story with a fresh twist, featuring unique characters and a blend of drama, romance, and refined “horror.” Its themes are reminiscent of earlier “anti-authoritarian” Iranian films. There are no solutions offered, as such resolutions are portrayed as impossible—even when it comes to something as simple as choosing our “favorite cake.” The plot solely illustrates how one small “mistake” can spiral into a horrifying tragedy. My Favourite Cake brilliantly delivers a deeply human touch that resonates profoundly, even amidst its starkly contrasting themes.
