Cast
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Tahmina Rafaella
as Banu
Melek Abbaszade
as Mahira
Zaur Shafiyev
as Javid
Jafar Hasan
as Taleh
Kabira Hashimli
as Farida
Emin Asgarov
as Ruslan
Zemfira Abdulsamadova
as Kamala
Nurlan Agayev
as Young Soldier
Hajar Agayeva
as Leyla
Gulnigar Ahmadova
as Refugee
Anar Almazov
as Traffic Policeman
Huseyn Babayev
as Rufat
Zeynab Islamova
as Young Lady
Salam Ismayil
as Refugee
Kamala Israfilova
as Rashida
Crew
Director
- Tahmina Rafaella
Writer
- Tahmina Rafaella
Producer
- Katayoon Shahabi
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Banu examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Tahmina Rafaella brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2022, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Banu took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 118 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 48 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2022, when this film is released:
- Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Banu shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Open Hearts, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Banu subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like French Exit and Lovers of the Arctic Circle explore similar territory, Banu stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: August 31, 2022
- Runtime: 1h 30m
Where to Watch
