My Favourite Cake (2024) Movie Script
Hello.
What do you want?
I told you a hundred times
not to call me in the morning.
Even if it's noon.
I'm alive.
You know I only get to sleep
early in the morning.
OK.
I'll call you when I'm up.
I'll do that, ma'am.
You'll damage your hands.
My hands are already damaged.
They're not like they once were.
I'm old now.
No, you look great.
Are you anywhere close by?
I'm sitting by the fountain
in the market.
No, I can carry them.
They aren't too heavy.
OK.
I'm sorry for the wait, Mrs. Vafa.
I had to drop you off last.
That's all right.
It's so nice that you're here.
Buses don't go out to my place,
and I don't know
how to order a taxi online.
You have a lot of groceries today!
I'm having guests over tomorrow.
Just us old gals...
Set it down here, I'll bring it in.
- At your service.
- Thank you so much.
My pleasure.
Thank you very much.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
My beloved...
Soraya, never doubt me again.
Never.
I promise.
Mahin, you're spoiling us!
Oh, it's nothing.
It'd be easier to go out
like we used to.
Restaurants are too expensive nowadays.
She's right!
So, the other day,
as I was leaving Jaleh's,
I was trying to hail a taxi
across the street
and this fancy white car
drove right up to me.
He offered me a ride.
I was headed to the Gisha district.
He opened the door for me
and I sat in the passenger seat.
- In the passenger seat?!
- Why, of course!
That's great!
He said: "I'm flying abroad,
and I'm on my way to breakfast.
"Would you like to join me?"
Nice!
So we went
for a bowl of porridge together.
How fun!
And then he dropped me off at home.
He was handsome and polite.
A real gentleman!
And he didn't have a ring!
Why don't we ever find these gentlemen?
Just open up your eyes!
You walk around like an old lady
with your eyes lowered.
You don't see what's around you.
I've been telling Mahin for 30 years
to stop sitting here all alone
and find herself a friend,
but she doesn't listen.
Men are useless!
He'd just sit here ordering her around.
She'd spend her time
cooking and cleaning,
and when he becomes ill,
she'd have to take care of him!
She was a nurse for 30 years,
hasn't she done enough?
A good man helps around the house.
And who says he'd become ill before her?
You think cooking is hard
because you never had kids.
You get used to it,
being a wife and mother your whole life.
And who says I don't have a child?
I have one right here!
I cook for her, I bathe her,
and I even change her diapers.
Yeah, well you wear them too!
Of course I do!
Would you rather I wet the bed?
I've got every illness in the book,
ask her.
Yesterday the doctor said
one of my kidneys is almost gone.
And my bowel polyps are huge!
I asked you to stop telling everyone
about your ailments.
We all have some,
but we keep them to ourselves.
She's been waking me up
at the crack of dawn for 30 years
to tell me these horrors.
You call 11 am the crack of dawn?
Besides, it's all true, look!
I brought this film to show you.
Would you play it?
What is it?
Footage of my colonoscopy.
Play it and you'll finally believe
I have cancer.
Don't say that.
You'll see my cancerous large intestine.
Pouran, that's absolutely disgusting!
Everybody knows, dear.
You don't need to show us the video.
She wasn't like this before,
she gets worse every day.
I told her to marry.
You wouldn't be this way if you had.
If it's so great,
why didn't you remarry?
I couldn't bring men home
with two small children.
There was that realtor, the man,
Mr. Rahmati, who sold her the house.
At first, she said:
"What about my kids?"
So when her kids moved abroad,
the realtor tried again.
She rejected him again,
his hands weren't hairy enough.
"Real men have hairy arms and chests!"
Find someone to talk to on the phone,
like I did,
so you don't feel lonely, dear.
You know,
married women aren't always happy.
She's right.
What joy did our dead husbands
ever bring us?
None for me!
Scientists have unveiled
a new generation of robots
with highly advanced new features.
These robots are particularly adapted
to single people.
Highly realistic,
they can help with house chores
and are very good conversationalists.
These robots can also accompany you
in the shower to bathe you...
But it isn't your birthday!
They hardly ever see me,
so they gave me my gift today.
What did they get you?
A blood-pressure monitor.
A blood-pressure monitor?!
You call that a gift?
I needed one, sweetie.
Pouran knew that,
so they all pitched in.
Where are you going?
Out to see my friends.
Be home before dark.
Bye.
Sorry Mom, you were saying?
Right...
so it was an evening buffet
with a lot of appetizers...
Mom, can you help me brush my teeth?
Coming, Sina.
Say hi to your grandma
before brushing your teeth.
Hi, sweetheart!
No, I want you to brush my teeth.
Grandma is crazy about you.
Mom, he's tired and cranky.
If you're busy...
No, it's OK, go on.
I wanted to make bean soup,
bread, and dolma,
but I changed my mind...
Mom, hurry, I'm tired.
Coming.
Sorry, Mom.
Sina won't leave me alone.
He wants me to brush his teeth.
Can I call you back later?
Go ahead, darling.
I just wanted to see
how you were doing.
Shabnam is going to Iran next week.
Do you want anything?
Don't bring me anything.
My closets are full of nice clothes
you sent me.
I can't wear them.
Where would I wear them?
Wear them at home.
Be careful when you go out,
there's a flu going around.
OK.
Sorry, Mom. I have to go.
Hold on a minute.
You need to learn
to brush your teeth by yourself...
Sina's blanket is almost finished.
Look...
Never leave me alone.
I won't.
I imagine the man of my dreams
when I look in the mirror.
What is this man like?
He falls in love with me all over again
every time he sees me.
When he's there,
I'm not afraid of anything or anyone.
That is the man of my dreams.
Promise me...
Promise me you'll never leave me...
How much per bag?
1,000 Tomans.
That'll be 30,000.
Here's your bread, ma'am.
That'll be 20,000 for you.
Next!
Is this the line to buy two loaves?
No, this is the line for one loaf.
Next!
Your bread, sir.
Two loaves with sesame.
Thank you, baker.
I'll have to do some tests tomorrow.
This time
the doctor's sure it's cancer.
Pouran,
you go to the doctor's every day.
Let's go to a coffee shop.
What the hell is a coffee shop?
Then the pensioners' restaurant.
My vouchers are about to expire.
I keep inviting you over,
but you never come.
Come over tomorrow.
You live on the 4th floor,
it's too hard on my knees.
I told you to go see Dr. Safadust.
He's a knee specialist.
He fixed Mrs. Badakhsh's knees
and she can take the stairs now.
Excuse me, does the music bother you?
No, son.
How much further to the Hyatt Hotel?
We'll be there soon.
It's not far, we just left.
So many highways...
It used to take me two minutes
to drive to the hotel.
Back when it was the Hyatt,
there wasn't any traffic.
Now it's "Freedom"
and there's a lot more traffic.
This is freedom?
No! I mean the hotel
is called "Freedom" now.
It was an incredible hotel
back in the day.
The most famous singers
performed there.
Al Bano and Romina Power
gave concerts there once.
We'd get dolled up.
We wore heels and plunging dresses.
None of these hijab robes and sneakers.
May I help you?
Hello.
Where is the coffee shop, please?
It's right over there.
Thank you.
- Hello, welcome.
- Hello.
What may I get you?
May I see the menu?
Just scan the QR code.
I'll have a caf glac, please.
We haven't had caf glac for years.
How about an affogato?
Affo...?
Just some tea, please.
Of course.
Sir?
Sir!
Yes?
Excuse me,
do people exercise in this park?
Yes, ma'am.
Elderly men, too?
If they're still able to.
Where do they go?
Here, there... everywhere.
It's a park.
Why is nobody here now?
They come early in the morning.
It's noon, they're already napping!
Are you looking for someone?
No.
I want to tell my husband
to come exercise with them.
He needs to come early in the morning.
My husband wakes up at noon.
So tell him to come at noon.
Hello?
Mom, why aren't you answering my calls?
I didn't see any missed calls.
I must've pressed a wrong button.
I was worried. Where are you?
I'm... at the park...
Out on a walk with friends.
That's great!
Are your friends with you now?
Yes, they're sitting around
having cake and milk.
Say hi to them for me.
OK.
Why don't you say hi?
It's my daughter. She says hello!
That's nice of her! Say hi back.
Your friends are men?
Darling, I have to go.
I'll call you back.
OK, Mom.
Your scarf isn't covering
all of your hair.
Please, ma'am, I swear,
I'm not wearing any makeup!
- I'll cover my hair, I promise!
- Get in!
- I won't wear these clothes again.
- Come with us.
My mom will have a stroke
if you arrest me.
If you had parents,
you couldn't dress like this.
Hello, sir.
Watch the van's door.
You're still young, son.
Don't waste your life like this.
Your hijab isn't proper either.
Don't make me arrest you, too.
- Get in the van!
- Stay with me!
Where are you taking her?
You're looking for trouble!
You can get in too.
I'm not crazy.
I'd never get in that van.
I'm not going anywhere.
You'll have to force me...
What's this?
She's crazy, bring the girl in.
- You're the crazy one!
- Get in.
I know your kind.
You cause a stir to record videos
and post them online.
What videos?
You'd kill them
over a few strands of hair?
None of your business. Go!
Why are you pushing me?
You're inhuman! Don't you have a mother?
The van's full. Let's go.
- Girls, get out.
- Close the door.
Hurry up!
I can't believe they actually let me go.
Thank you.
You have to stand up for yourself.
The more submissive you are,
the more they'll push you down.
It's something I recently learned.
Where do you live?
I'm not going home,
just to the park.
Let's walk together, then.
I'm heading that way.
Hello?
I'll be there soon.
I was arrested by the Morality Police.
I'm fine.
I'll tell you all about it.
I'll be right there.
Was that your mother?
No, it was my boyfriend.
The guards might arrest you again.
They're gone.
Were you ever arrested together?
The first time we said we were siblings
and they let us go.
But the second time,
they locked us up all night.
When will they leave us be?
At least you had a life pre-revolution,
without forced hijabs.
At your age,
it doesn't really affect you anymore.
I can't keep up with you.
Go ahead,
I'll make you late for your date.
OK.
Thank you, you were incredible.
Take care of yourself.
I will. Goodbye.
I can't find a gas pump for my car.
You can find one
in the Shoush district.
They probably aren't originals.
The kebabs here used to be much better.
This country's going to the dogs.
Weren't you supposed to take me
to the strike the other day?
Oh, so it's my job
to take you to the strike?
Why not?
The more of us, the better.
We can meet there.
Do I really have to pick you up?
What strike?
To protest our pensions.
You think it'll make a difference?
Whether or not it does,
it's our duty to go.
Where were you
when we needed to fight and protest?
Your balls are hanging past your knees
and now you wake up?
Watch your language!
There's a lady in the room.
I beg your pardon, ma'am.
It's hopeless.
They won't even listen to youths,
and we have one foot in the grave!
Things won't get any better,
even in the grave.
With this recession,
we'll be lucky if we can afford a grave.
We came here to have lunch
and have a good time.
Let's talk about nice things.
If you wanna hear nice things,
serve us a round of Aragh!
You're on!
Faramarz!
Why didn't you sit with us?
I'm just finishing up.
I have to hurry back to the taxi stand.
You must be doing well
if you can afford to eat out every day.
I don't have a choice.
You all have wives
and homecooked meals.
- Do you all have lunch vouchers?
- Yeah.
I'm out, I'll pay in cash.
Don't worry, it's on me.
- Bye, gentlemen.
- See you.
Excuse me, sir,
do you know the man who just left?
Yes.
Is he a taxi driver?
Yes.
Where is his stand?
In the street around back.
Thank you.
What about your meal?
I just remembered,
I have something to do.
Goodbye.
Hello?
The car will be there
in 10 minutes ma'am.
There must be traffic.
Bye.
Is Mr. Faramarz here?
Faramarz who?
The one who retired from the army.
He'll be back soon.
Do you need a taxi?
No, I need to talk to him.
Hold on, please.
Anyone know where Faramarz went?
He took a passenger downtown.
He'll be back soon.
Excuse me, you wanted to talk to me?
I'd like you to drive me home.
You need a taxi?
I'll get one of the guys...
I want you to drive me.
But it isn't my turn.
I told them I know you.
Where do you live?
In Azmayesh.
The Azmayesh district?
Yes, after the overpass.
Where do you live in Azmayesh?
On Golbarg.
- We'll take the upper street.
- Right.
I'm Mahin.
And I'm Faramarz.
Where do you know me from?
I don't know you.
My colleagues said
you gave them my name.
I saw you at the pensioners' restaurant.
Really?! You were there?
Why did you follow me?
You said you live alone.
Do you?
That's my fate.
No children?
None.
You retired from the army?
Yes. And you?
No, I was a nurse.
My husband was in the army.
You have a husband?
He passed away.
May he rest in peace.
Was he a soldier?
No, he worked at the military hospital.
And you?
I was a soldier.
I was a lieutenant
when the revolution started.
I was forced to go to the
front line during the war.
Really?
Yes.
Look!
I'm covered in shrapnel.
Oh, goodness!
I spent three months in the hospital.
After that...
I decided to retire.
I found war to be meaningless.
It's worthless.
Would you like to come to my place?
To do what?
I also live alone.
Now?
When would it suit you?
Now.
Let's hurry so nobody sees us together.
What's the problem?
I'm just a taxi driver.
Right, of course.
May I stop at the pharmacy?
I've run out of my medication.
You don't mind waiting?
Go ahead.
Don't be too long.
OK.
Would you see that rain!?
- Did you get your medicine?
- Yes.
Your phone rang.
Probably the taxi company!
No one else calls me.
Yes, it was the company.
Do I say I'm done for the night?
Hello, Mr. Parviz.
Did you call me?
I'm sorry, something came up.
I had to take care of it.
I won't come in tonight.
Thank you.
Have a good night.
Have you been a taxi driver long?
20 years now.
Do you have another job?
In the old days...
I used to play tar
in a wedding band with some friends.
One night,
the Morality Police raided the wedding.
I spent a month in jail.
And then what happened?
They released me
when they found out I was a veteran.
Did you get compensations
for your wounds?
Not a chance!
All they offered was a free grave.
I turned it down.
Do you still play tar?
Yes.
But when I get home at night,
I have no energy left.
And who would I play for?
My house is over on the corner.
Drop me off
and park your car one street over.
Better not park out front,
my neighbors are very nosy.
OK.
Are you there?
Come in, this is the right place.
Have a seat.
I'll be there in a minute.
OK.
Did you close the front gate?
Yes.
Your yard is so dark
I almost tripped and fell.
The outdoor lights don't work.
Where are you?
Right here.
Why are you so quiet?
I have no one to talk to.
You aren't here.
Here I am.
You look so pretty!
Really?
I'm glad.
Don't just stand there,
take off your jacket and come in.
Come in.
Welcome.
Welcome.
- Make yourself at home.
- Thank you.
You have a beautiful yard.
It's my only joy.
Is it your private yard?
Yes, the neighbors
use the back entrance.
You have a beautiful home, too.
You have good taste.
Thank you.
But what good is it
if I'm living here all alone?
To be honest, it's my first time
inviting a man to my home.
I thought it couldn't be wrong,
after being alone all these years.
It isn't wrong at all.
It's wonderful.
You think so?
Of course!
Many men wouldn't dare.
How can they know
if a woman likes them?
Women can propose too.
It took me a long time to understand.
Where are your children?
They left Iran 20 years ago.
Have you ever visited them?
A few times when I was younger.
I managed to get a visa.
But for some time now,
they've been coming here instead.
At my age,
it's almost impossible to get a visa.
My friends live far away,
so they can't come see me as often.
We all used to get together
at least once a month.
Now, it's once a year.
For a while,
we went to the pool once a week.
We would have so much fun.
We could exercise and see each other.
But nowadays,
entrance fees are too expensive so...
Why did you get up?
I wanted to serve you something.
Do you need help?
Help?
No, but would you like to sit here?
Yes.
Come then.
I have trouble sleeping at night.
So I usually sleep in until noon.
Women's pools
are only open in the morning.
Take a chair and sit here.
Anyway, we stopped going to the pool.
So I mostly stay home.
A friend gave this to me
a long time ago.
I've kept it all this time.
- Would you like some?
- What is it?
Wine.
Wow!
I used to drink some every night.
I haven't had any in years.
Maybe you shouldn't drink then.
No, pour us a glass.
I'm too old to worry.
You're still young.
Young?!
I'm 70 years old.
So, we're the same age.
You don't look your age.
You seem younger.
I feel very old.
I've become an old man.
I don't know when it started,
but no one sees me anymore.
It's not about age.
We still have so much ahead of us.
So much to do!
But I'm tired of working so hard
for next to nothing.
The good news is
we don't have to work when we're dead.
Aren't you afraid of dying?
No.
But I'm afraid of dying alone.
What do you mean?
I mean...
I don't want to die alone at home.
I see.
That scares me too.
I always wonder...
who would find me
if I died at home alone.
What does it matter?
Maybe it doesn't matter,
but at least someone should find you.
And I wonder...
what they'll do with my body.
I worry they'll bury me
some place far away.
Far away from who?
I don't know.
Far from home.
You're right.
It's beautiful here.
Cheers.
Cheers, to your health.
Mmm!
It's delicious.
Enjoy!
After alcohol became forbidden,
I started making my own wine.
I'd buy 200 kg of grapes
and invite my friends
to help me crush them.
We put them into big ceramic urns
we buried in the garden.
In the garden!
Yes, so it could ferment.
And the police never suspected a thing!
But after I got married,
my wife didn't let me.
Was she religious?
Oh yeah.
She made my life miserable.
How?
She wanted me to pray and fast.
Did you listen to her?
She was my wife, what could I do?
I got used to it.
Where is she now?
I was lucky, she asked for a divorce.
My mother set us up.
We weren't together very long.
She wanted children,
but I couldn't give them to her.
I tried making wine once,
but it turned sour.
There's a trick to it.
It's like making pickles.
Do you want to make wine together?
Where?
Here, of course.
We'll bury it in my garden.
Sure.
There's an old saying,
lovers making good wine together.
The more they love each other,
the better the wine.
How wonderful!
Ours should be good.
Stay here and don't make a sound.
I won't.
Does my breath smell like wine?
No. You only had a few sips.
How are you?
And you, Mrs. Hashemi?
- Fine. Are you alone?
- I am.
My friend and her daughter
are coming over.
It's her daughter's birthday.
I heard a man's voice.
I was worried.
That was the plumber.
He fixed my sink and left.
Good...
Don't play loud music
for your guests tonight.
Mrs. Hashemi,
I lost the key to this door.
From now on, come through the yard.
I won't open this door anymore.
Oh my!
Hire a locksmith!
What nonsense...
Was it your neighbor?
Yes. She was just being nosy.
What nerve!
She's always doing this.
Her husband works for the government,
so she thinks she has a right.
Let's just forget about her.
I'll heat up something to eat.
If I knew you were coming,
I'd have cut fresh herbs
from the garden.
Why don't you?
I love fresh herbs.
It's too dark out in the yard.
I can fix the lights.
There's a problem with the wiring.
No problem. I can fix that.
It's raining!
It stopped a while ago.
Can you really fix it?
Yes.
If you fix it, we can eat in the yard.
Do you have a phase meter?
I think there's one in the toolbox.
Bring it.
OK, I'll bake a cake while you do that.
Thank you.
Here, I found some light bulbs.
Thank you.
I rewired it. It was disconnected.
Thank you so much!
One down.
How pleasant!
My pleasure.
I'll leave the bulbs here
and go pick some herbs for you.
All right.
Can your neighbors see into the yard?
Those neighbors are nice
and Mrs. Hashemi's window
doesn't face this way.
I was lucky.
Very lucky!
Yes indeed!
How fortunate,
I wish I had a yard like this.
It's all yours.
Just letting me enjoy it
is more than enough.
You can come every day.
Only a fool
would turn down such an invitation.
Yes, and you're no fool.
What's your favorite herb?
Mint.
I love mint.
Mint is a very good herb.
Once you plant some...
it'll be there forever.
Nothing lasts forever.
Some things do.
Like what?
I don't know.
Maybe nothing.
These just need to be rinsed.
I never use any pesticides in my garden.
The soil is clean.
Since you have such good soil,
I'll bring some flowers
to plant tomorrow.
What flowers do you like?
Oh, I love them all.
Do you like night-blooming Jasmine?
I love it.
The smell drives me crazy.
How beautiful!
It's been dark for so long
I'd forgotten how nice it was.
The weather is so nice.
Really!
- Shall I pour you a glass?
- Please.
Do you also feel a little tipsy?
It's wonderful!
So wonderful.
- Here you are.
- Thanks.
Why did you pour out the wine?
For the dead.
It's an old tradition.
For every glass you drink,
pour out a mouthful for them.
How beautiful!
That's my share!
Cheers!
To the best night of my life.
Cheers.
Your cedars are beautiful.
- Did you plant them yourself?
- Yes.
30 years ago,
there was nothing in this garden.
I didn't have enough money
to buy plants.
One night, my friend Pouran and I
went to the neighborhood park.
They had just planted
these small saplings.
After everyone left,
we dug some up and hid them in a bag.
The night watch saw us
and ran after us!
We jumped into Pouran's car
and sped home.
After that, whenever we wanted flowers,
we'd go get them at the park.
So you're the cedar thieves
they've been after all these years!
They've grown
and aged a lot since then.
So have we.
Delicious!
When I woke up this morning,
I really didn't want to go to work.
I thought to myself:
"What a joyless life...
"Each day is exactly the same.
"Nothing new ever happens."
I never thought
I'd end up here enjoying your dolma!
I'm so glad I went to work.
Otherwise, I wouldn't have met you.
How true!
How lucky I went to that restaurant.
How true.
Why did you choose that restaurant?
There are so many others.
I get pensioners' coupons.
I go there sometimes.
I thought you went
for the balding old men.
Nonsense.
I'm joking!
They say most men...
don't know what it's like
to be loved by a woman.
Well, you do now.
Really?
And I'll put on some music
and dance for you.
Would you like that?
I would like that.
Let's go inside, then.
Are you all right?
It's the alcohol...
I'm fine.
How am I going to drive home?
Who said you have to go home tonight?
Come on, get up.
We're gonna dance.
Get up.
What kind of music do you like?
The oldies.
Me too.
Which singers?
Haydeh...
Pouran...
Rafiei.
Yes, Rafiei is also good.
I was waiting for you
Alone in the garden
Far away from you
I drank the wine of despair
I was waiting for you
I was waiting for you...
Is this your daughter?
She looks just like you.
What a beautiful picture!
Is it by the Caspian sea?
Yes, I was on my honeymoon.
We stayed at the Ramsar
for three days.
It was so beautiful.
You sound as if you were there with us.
For a second,
I felt as if I were there.
Oh!
You changed!
Look how slim and beautiful I was
when I was young.
You look better now.
I like you plumper.
Let's take a picture together!
All right.
I left my phone in the car.
We'll use mine.
Where shall we take the picture?
In front of that plant! Let's go.
Come on.
Stand on this side.
Ready?
Yes.
We have our picture.
Will you send it to me?
Yes, I will.
But don't show it to anyone!
Who would I show it to?
I don't know...
The other taxi drivers?
No way.
Why would I show them?
Sit there.
I'll bring some clean glasses.
How long since your husband died?
30 years.
How did he die?
In a car accident
on the road to Isfahan.
Why didn't you leave Iran
with your children?
My home is here.
And the lands in this area
are undocumented.
If I left, they would claim my house.
Why didn't you remarry?
It just didn't happen.
What about you?
When did you get divorced?
Many years ago.
And you've been alone since?
Yes.
Why didn't you remarry?
Once was enough.
Did you have any girlfriends?
Girlfriends?
Call them what you like.
Were there any women in your life?
There was one.
But she married a rich guy
and moved to Australia.
Why?
It's obvious!
He had more money
and he could take her to Australia.
Were you heartbroken?
Yes, I was.
How long were you together?
A few months.
We went out together a lot.
Did she come to your home?
No.
So, what did you do?
Do?
Didn't you sleep together?
No.
You haven't been with anyone
all these years?
No.
How is that possible?
Why wouldn't it be?
I thought men can't do that.
Of course we can,
sometimes that's just how it goes.
That's just how it goes!
What about you?
What about me?
Have you been with anyone?
No,
I never found a man I really wanted.
Why didn't you find me sooner?
I love this song!
Stand up, let's dance.
I don't know how.
Don't be silly!
Everyone can dance.
I need to use the bathroom first.
OK, but don't be long.
Where is it?
The first door.
Hurry back.
Very well.
Faramarz?
Hurry up!
Come dance with me!
What's taking you so long?
If the moon comes down
And knocks at my door
If the bird of fortune
Flies over my head
If the thunder rolls
Thousands of times above me
Because you're here
I wouldn't open the door
Because you're my soul mate
I wouldn't open the door
I wouldn't open the door
I wouldn't open the door...
You're so cute when you dance.
You're the cute one!
Won't the neighbors hear us
and call the Morality Police?
Let them come!
What can they do to us?
They'll force us to marry!
All this laughing
makes me have to pee again.
When was the last time you danced?
I can't remember.
How could you forget?
It was a long time ago.
With your girlfriend?
No.
Do you like dancing with me?
Very much.
Sometimes I dance here on my own.
On your own?
Who else would I dance with?
I feel flushed.
Me too.
My head is spinning.
That was so much fun!
That was so much fun!
Mahin!
Yes, dear?
You really want me to stay overnight?
Do you have to ask again?
May I take a shower
in your beautiful bathroom?
I worked all day.
I didn't know I'd be coming here.
Of course, but don't be too long.
I'll bring you a towel.
Here, take the towel.
Thank you very much.
Will you take a shower with me?
A shower?
No.
Why not? Come.
Let me wash your back.
I'm ashamed to be naked.
I'm not 20 anymore,
in a swimsuit on the beach.
Your body is perfect.
You think my body hasn't changed?
I'm too shy.
You go.
I'll listen to music and wait for you.
I think I drank too much.
Take a shower.
You'll feel refreshed.
Don't you want to feel refreshed?
I haven't been naked
in front of anyone for 30 years.
It's no problem.
I haven't seen anyone naked
for longer than that.
Is the water too cold?
No, it's perfect.
Have you ever showered
with your clothes on?
It's nice.
Plus, our clothes are getting washed.
In foreign films,
couples have showers together.
Yes.
But they don't know
how to scrub each other's backs.
Want me to wash yours?
Do the clothes fit?
They're perfect.
I made an orange blossom cake
with vanilla cream.
I always bake it
hoping someone will come.
That someone was you.
Who better than you?
What a celebration!
Let's have some cake.
Are you coming?
Where are you?
Are you asleep?
It's not time to sleep yet.
Faramarz?
Faramarz!
Are you all right?
Oh my God...
No, not this, Faramarz...
Please don't! Stay with me, please!
Please wake up! No, Faramarz...
God, why did you do this to me?
What should I do?
What's happening to me?
Tehran emergency...
It's too late!
What should I do...?
Please, Faramarz,
I'm begging you, come back.
Don't do this to me!
Please, I'm begging you...
1001, 1002, 1003, 1004...
Come back, Faramarz.
Come back!
Come back, Faramarz!
Don't do this to me, please!
Come back!
My God, why? Why?!
People are under pressure.
It's hard to find clients.
Nobody buys flowers anymore.
They don't see the need for flowers.
And the people who do...
can't afford flowers.
I used to make a better living
spraying pesticides.
But it weighed on my conscience.
You know how many
cockroaches I've killed?
Millions!
Maybe more.
Anyway, this pit is too big
for flowers. It's good for a tree.
What do you want?
I told you a hundred times
not to call me in the morning.
Even if it's noon.
I'm alive.
You know I only get to sleep
early in the morning.
OK.
I'll call you when I'm up.
I'll do that, ma'am.
You'll damage your hands.
My hands are already damaged.
They're not like they once were.
I'm old now.
No, you look great.
Are you anywhere close by?
I'm sitting by the fountain
in the market.
No, I can carry them.
They aren't too heavy.
OK.
I'm sorry for the wait, Mrs. Vafa.
I had to drop you off last.
That's all right.
It's so nice that you're here.
Buses don't go out to my place,
and I don't know
how to order a taxi online.
You have a lot of groceries today!
I'm having guests over tomorrow.
Just us old gals...
Set it down here, I'll bring it in.
- At your service.
- Thank you so much.
My pleasure.
Thank you very much.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
My beloved...
Soraya, never doubt me again.
Never.
I promise.
Mahin, you're spoiling us!
Oh, it's nothing.
It'd be easier to go out
like we used to.
Restaurants are too expensive nowadays.
She's right!
So, the other day,
as I was leaving Jaleh's,
I was trying to hail a taxi
across the street
and this fancy white car
drove right up to me.
He offered me a ride.
I was headed to the Gisha district.
He opened the door for me
and I sat in the passenger seat.
- In the passenger seat?!
- Why, of course!
That's great!
He said: "I'm flying abroad,
and I'm on my way to breakfast.
"Would you like to join me?"
Nice!
So we went
for a bowl of porridge together.
How fun!
And then he dropped me off at home.
He was handsome and polite.
A real gentleman!
And he didn't have a ring!
Why don't we ever find these gentlemen?
Just open up your eyes!
You walk around like an old lady
with your eyes lowered.
You don't see what's around you.
I've been telling Mahin for 30 years
to stop sitting here all alone
and find herself a friend,
but she doesn't listen.
Men are useless!
He'd just sit here ordering her around.
She'd spend her time
cooking and cleaning,
and when he becomes ill,
she'd have to take care of him!
She was a nurse for 30 years,
hasn't she done enough?
A good man helps around the house.
And who says he'd become ill before her?
You think cooking is hard
because you never had kids.
You get used to it,
being a wife and mother your whole life.
And who says I don't have a child?
I have one right here!
I cook for her, I bathe her,
and I even change her diapers.
Yeah, well you wear them too!
Of course I do!
Would you rather I wet the bed?
I've got every illness in the book,
ask her.
Yesterday the doctor said
one of my kidneys is almost gone.
And my bowel polyps are huge!
I asked you to stop telling everyone
about your ailments.
We all have some,
but we keep them to ourselves.
She's been waking me up
at the crack of dawn for 30 years
to tell me these horrors.
You call 11 am the crack of dawn?
Besides, it's all true, look!
I brought this film to show you.
Would you play it?
What is it?
Footage of my colonoscopy.
Play it and you'll finally believe
I have cancer.
Don't say that.
You'll see my cancerous large intestine.
Pouran, that's absolutely disgusting!
Everybody knows, dear.
You don't need to show us the video.
She wasn't like this before,
she gets worse every day.
I told her to marry.
You wouldn't be this way if you had.
If it's so great,
why didn't you remarry?
I couldn't bring men home
with two small children.
There was that realtor, the man,
Mr. Rahmati, who sold her the house.
At first, she said:
"What about my kids?"
So when her kids moved abroad,
the realtor tried again.
She rejected him again,
his hands weren't hairy enough.
"Real men have hairy arms and chests!"
Find someone to talk to on the phone,
like I did,
so you don't feel lonely, dear.
You know,
married women aren't always happy.
She's right.
What joy did our dead husbands
ever bring us?
None for me!
Scientists have unveiled
a new generation of robots
with highly advanced new features.
These robots are particularly adapted
to single people.
Highly realistic,
they can help with house chores
and are very good conversationalists.
These robots can also accompany you
in the shower to bathe you...
But it isn't your birthday!
They hardly ever see me,
so they gave me my gift today.
What did they get you?
A blood-pressure monitor.
A blood-pressure monitor?!
You call that a gift?
I needed one, sweetie.
Pouran knew that,
so they all pitched in.
Where are you going?
Out to see my friends.
Be home before dark.
Bye.
Sorry Mom, you were saying?
Right...
so it was an evening buffet
with a lot of appetizers...
Mom, can you help me brush my teeth?
Coming, Sina.
Say hi to your grandma
before brushing your teeth.
Hi, sweetheart!
No, I want you to brush my teeth.
Grandma is crazy about you.
Mom, he's tired and cranky.
If you're busy...
No, it's OK, go on.
I wanted to make bean soup,
bread, and dolma,
but I changed my mind...
Mom, hurry, I'm tired.
Coming.
Sorry, Mom.
Sina won't leave me alone.
He wants me to brush his teeth.
Can I call you back later?
Go ahead, darling.
I just wanted to see
how you were doing.
Shabnam is going to Iran next week.
Do you want anything?
Don't bring me anything.
My closets are full of nice clothes
you sent me.
I can't wear them.
Where would I wear them?
Wear them at home.
Be careful when you go out,
there's a flu going around.
OK.
Sorry, Mom. I have to go.
Hold on a minute.
You need to learn
to brush your teeth by yourself...
Sina's blanket is almost finished.
Look...
Never leave me alone.
I won't.
I imagine the man of my dreams
when I look in the mirror.
What is this man like?
He falls in love with me all over again
every time he sees me.
When he's there,
I'm not afraid of anything or anyone.
That is the man of my dreams.
Promise me...
Promise me you'll never leave me...
How much per bag?
1,000 Tomans.
That'll be 30,000.
Here's your bread, ma'am.
That'll be 20,000 for you.
Next!
Is this the line to buy two loaves?
No, this is the line for one loaf.
Next!
Your bread, sir.
Two loaves with sesame.
Thank you, baker.
I'll have to do some tests tomorrow.
This time
the doctor's sure it's cancer.
Pouran,
you go to the doctor's every day.
Let's go to a coffee shop.
What the hell is a coffee shop?
Then the pensioners' restaurant.
My vouchers are about to expire.
I keep inviting you over,
but you never come.
Come over tomorrow.
You live on the 4th floor,
it's too hard on my knees.
I told you to go see Dr. Safadust.
He's a knee specialist.
He fixed Mrs. Badakhsh's knees
and she can take the stairs now.
Excuse me, does the music bother you?
No, son.
How much further to the Hyatt Hotel?
We'll be there soon.
It's not far, we just left.
So many highways...
It used to take me two minutes
to drive to the hotel.
Back when it was the Hyatt,
there wasn't any traffic.
Now it's "Freedom"
and there's a lot more traffic.
This is freedom?
No! I mean the hotel
is called "Freedom" now.
It was an incredible hotel
back in the day.
The most famous singers
performed there.
Al Bano and Romina Power
gave concerts there once.
We'd get dolled up.
We wore heels and plunging dresses.
None of these hijab robes and sneakers.
May I help you?
Hello.
Where is the coffee shop, please?
It's right over there.
Thank you.
- Hello, welcome.
- Hello.
What may I get you?
May I see the menu?
Just scan the QR code.
I'll have a caf glac, please.
We haven't had caf glac for years.
How about an affogato?
Affo...?
Just some tea, please.
Of course.
Sir?
Sir!
Yes?
Excuse me,
do people exercise in this park?
Yes, ma'am.
Elderly men, too?
If they're still able to.
Where do they go?
Here, there... everywhere.
It's a park.
Why is nobody here now?
They come early in the morning.
It's noon, they're already napping!
Are you looking for someone?
No.
I want to tell my husband
to come exercise with them.
He needs to come early in the morning.
My husband wakes up at noon.
So tell him to come at noon.
Hello?
Mom, why aren't you answering my calls?
I didn't see any missed calls.
I must've pressed a wrong button.
I was worried. Where are you?
I'm... at the park...
Out on a walk with friends.
That's great!
Are your friends with you now?
Yes, they're sitting around
having cake and milk.
Say hi to them for me.
OK.
Why don't you say hi?
It's my daughter. She says hello!
That's nice of her! Say hi back.
Your friends are men?
Darling, I have to go.
I'll call you back.
OK, Mom.
Your scarf isn't covering
all of your hair.
Please, ma'am, I swear,
I'm not wearing any makeup!
- I'll cover my hair, I promise!
- Get in!
- I won't wear these clothes again.
- Come with us.
My mom will have a stroke
if you arrest me.
If you had parents,
you couldn't dress like this.
Hello, sir.
Watch the van's door.
You're still young, son.
Don't waste your life like this.
Your hijab isn't proper either.
Don't make me arrest you, too.
- Get in the van!
- Stay with me!
Where are you taking her?
You're looking for trouble!
You can get in too.
I'm not crazy.
I'd never get in that van.
I'm not going anywhere.
You'll have to force me...
What's this?
She's crazy, bring the girl in.
- You're the crazy one!
- Get in.
I know your kind.
You cause a stir to record videos
and post them online.
What videos?
You'd kill them
over a few strands of hair?
None of your business. Go!
Why are you pushing me?
You're inhuman! Don't you have a mother?
The van's full. Let's go.
- Girls, get out.
- Close the door.
Hurry up!
I can't believe they actually let me go.
Thank you.
You have to stand up for yourself.
The more submissive you are,
the more they'll push you down.
It's something I recently learned.
Where do you live?
I'm not going home,
just to the park.
Let's walk together, then.
I'm heading that way.
Hello?
I'll be there soon.
I was arrested by the Morality Police.
I'm fine.
I'll tell you all about it.
I'll be right there.
Was that your mother?
No, it was my boyfriend.
The guards might arrest you again.
They're gone.
Were you ever arrested together?
The first time we said we were siblings
and they let us go.
But the second time,
they locked us up all night.
When will they leave us be?
At least you had a life pre-revolution,
without forced hijabs.
At your age,
it doesn't really affect you anymore.
I can't keep up with you.
Go ahead,
I'll make you late for your date.
OK.
Thank you, you were incredible.
Take care of yourself.
I will. Goodbye.
I can't find a gas pump for my car.
You can find one
in the Shoush district.
They probably aren't originals.
The kebabs here used to be much better.
This country's going to the dogs.
Weren't you supposed to take me
to the strike the other day?
Oh, so it's my job
to take you to the strike?
Why not?
The more of us, the better.
We can meet there.
Do I really have to pick you up?
What strike?
To protest our pensions.
You think it'll make a difference?
Whether or not it does,
it's our duty to go.
Where were you
when we needed to fight and protest?
Your balls are hanging past your knees
and now you wake up?
Watch your language!
There's a lady in the room.
I beg your pardon, ma'am.
It's hopeless.
They won't even listen to youths,
and we have one foot in the grave!
Things won't get any better,
even in the grave.
With this recession,
we'll be lucky if we can afford a grave.
We came here to have lunch
and have a good time.
Let's talk about nice things.
If you wanna hear nice things,
serve us a round of Aragh!
You're on!
Faramarz!
Why didn't you sit with us?
I'm just finishing up.
I have to hurry back to the taxi stand.
You must be doing well
if you can afford to eat out every day.
I don't have a choice.
You all have wives
and homecooked meals.
- Do you all have lunch vouchers?
- Yeah.
I'm out, I'll pay in cash.
Don't worry, it's on me.
- Bye, gentlemen.
- See you.
Excuse me, sir,
do you know the man who just left?
Yes.
Is he a taxi driver?
Yes.
Where is his stand?
In the street around back.
Thank you.
What about your meal?
I just remembered,
I have something to do.
Goodbye.
Hello?
The car will be there
in 10 minutes ma'am.
There must be traffic.
Bye.
Is Mr. Faramarz here?
Faramarz who?
The one who retired from the army.
He'll be back soon.
Do you need a taxi?
No, I need to talk to him.
Hold on, please.
Anyone know where Faramarz went?
He took a passenger downtown.
He'll be back soon.
Excuse me, you wanted to talk to me?
I'd like you to drive me home.
You need a taxi?
I'll get one of the guys...
I want you to drive me.
But it isn't my turn.
I told them I know you.
Where do you live?
In Azmayesh.
The Azmayesh district?
Yes, after the overpass.
Where do you live in Azmayesh?
On Golbarg.
- We'll take the upper street.
- Right.
I'm Mahin.
And I'm Faramarz.
Where do you know me from?
I don't know you.
My colleagues said
you gave them my name.
I saw you at the pensioners' restaurant.
Really?! You were there?
Why did you follow me?
You said you live alone.
Do you?
That's my fate.
No children?
None.
You retired from the army?
Yes. And you?
No, I was a nurse.
My husband was in the army.
You have a husband?
He passed away.
May he rest in peace.
Was he a soldier?
No, he worked at the military hospital.
And you?
I was a soldier.
I was a lieutenant
when the revolution started.
I was forced to go to the
front line during the war.
Really?
Yes.
Look!
I'm covered in shrapnel.
Oh, goodness!
I spent three months in the hospital.
After that...
I decided to retire.
I found war to be meaningless.
It's worthless.
Would you like to come to my place?
To do what?
I also live alone.
Now?
When would it suit you?
Now.
Let's hurry so nobody sees us together.
What's the problem?
I'm just a taxi driver.
Right, of course.
May I stop at the pharmacy?
I've run out of my medication.
You don't mind waiting?
Go ahead.
Don't be too long.
OK.
Would you see that rain!?
- Did you get your medicine?
- Yes.
Your phone rang.
Probably the taxi company!
No one else calls me.
Yes, it was the company.
Do I say I'm done for the night?
Hello, Mr. Parviz.
Did you call me?
I'm sorry, something came up.
I had to take care of it.
I won't come in tonight.
Thank you.
Have a good night.
Have you been a taxi driver long?
20 years now.
Do you have another job?
In the old days...
I used to play tar
in a wedding band with some friends.
One night,
the Morality Police raided the wedding.
I spent a month in jail.
And then what happened?
They released me
when they found out I was a veteran.
Did you get compensations
for your wounds?
Not a chance!
All they offered was a free grave.
I turned it down.
Do you still play tar?
Yes.
But when I get home at night,
I have no energy left.
And who would I play for?
My house is over on the corner.
Drop me off
and park your car one street over.
Better not park out front,
my neighbors are very nosy.
OK.
Are you there?
Come in, this is the right place.
Have a seat.
I'll be there in a minute.
OK.
Did you close the front gate?
Yes.
Your yard is so dark
I almost tripped and fell.
The outdoor lights don't work.
Where are you?
Right here.
Why are you so quiet?
I have no one to talk to.
You aren't here.
Here I am.
You look so pretty!
Really?
I'm glad.
Don't just stand there,
take off your jacket and come in.
Come in.
Welcome.
Welcome.
- Make yourself at home.
- Thank you.
You have a beautiful yard.
It's my only joy.
Is it your private yard?
Yes, the neighbors
use the back entrance.
You have a beautiful home, too.
You have good taste.
Thank you.
But what good is it
if I'm living here all alone?
To be honest, it's my first time
inviting a man to my home.
I thought it couldn't be wrong,
after being alone all these years.
It isn't wrong at all.
It's wonderful.
You think so?
Of course!
Many men wouldn't dare.
How can they know
if a woman likes them?
Women can propose too.
It took me a long time to understand.
Where are your children?
They left Iran 20 years ago.
Have you ever visited them?
A few times when I was younger.
I managed to get a visa.
But for some time now,
they've been coming here instead.
At my age,
it's almost impossible to get a visa.
My friends live far away,
so they can't come see me as often.
We all used to get together
at least once a month.
Now, it's once a year.
For a while,
we went to the pool once a week.
We would have so much fun.
We could exercise and see each other.
But nowadays,
entrance fees are too expensive so...
Why did you get up?
I wanted to serve you something.
Do you need help?
Help?
No, but would you like to sit here?
Yes.
Come then.
I have trouble sleeping at night.
So I usually sleep in until noon.
Women's pools
are only open in the morning.
Take a chair and sit here.
Anyway, we stopped going to the pool.
So I mostly stay home.
A friend gave this to me
a long time ago.
I've kept it all this time.
- Would you like some?
- What is it?
Wine.
Wow!
I used to drink some every night.
I haven't had any in years.
Maybe you shouldn't drink then.
No, pour us a glass.
I'm too old to worry.
You're still young.
Young?!
I'm 70 years old.
So, we're the same age.
You don't look your age.
You seem younger.
I feel very old.
I've become an old man.
I don't know when it started,
but no one sees me anymore.
It's not about age.
We still have so much ahead of us.
So much to do!
But I'm tired of working so hard
for next to nothing.
The good news is
we don't have to work when we're dead.
Aren't you afraid of dying?
No.
But I'm afraid of dying alone.
What do you mean?
I mean...
I don't want to die alone at home.
I see.
That scares me too.
I always wonder...
who would find me
if I died at home alone.
What does it matter?
Maybe it doesn't matter,
but at least someone should find you.
And I wonder...
what they'll do with my body.
I worry they'll bury me
some place far away.
Far away from who?
I don't know.
Far from home.
You're right.
It's beautiful here.
Cheers.
Cheers, to your health.
Mmm!
It's delicious.
Enjoy!
After alcohol became forbidden,
I started making my own wine.
I'd buy 200 kg of grapes
and invite my friends
to help me crush them.
We put them into big ceramic urns
we buried in the garden.
In the garden!
Yes, so it could ferment.
And the police never suspected a thing!
But after I got married,
my wife didn't let me.
Was she religious?
Oh yeah.
She made my life miserable.
How?
She wanted me to pray and fast.
Did you listen to her?
She was my wife, what could I do?
I got used to it.
Where is she now?
I was lucky, she asked for a divorce.
My mother set us up.
We weren't together very long.
She wanted children,
but I couldn't give them to her.
I tried making wine once,
but it turned sour.
There's a trick to it.
It's like making pickles.
Do you want to make wine together?
Where?
Here, of course.
We'll bury it in my garden.
Sure.
There's an old saying,
lovers making good wine together.
The more they love each other,
the better the wine.
How wonderful!
Ours should be good.
Stay here and don't make a sound.
I won't.
Does my breath smell like wine?
No. You only had a few sips.
How are you?
And you, Mrs. Hashemi?
- Fine. Are you alone?
- I am.
My friend and her daughter
are coming over.
It's her daughter's birthday.
I heard a man's voice.
I was worried.
That was the plumber.
He fixed my sink and left.
Good...
Don't play loud music
for your guests tonight.
Mrs. Hashemi,
I lost the key to this door.
From now on, come through the yard.
I won't open this door anymore.
Oh my!
Hire a locksmith!
What nonsense...
Was it your neighbor?
Yes. She was just being nosy.
What nerve!
She's always doing this.
Her husband works for the government,
so she thinks she has a right.
Let's just forget about her.
I'll heat up something to eat.
If I knew you were coming,
I'd have cut fresh herbs
from the garden.
Why don't you?
I love fresh herbs.
It's too dark out in the yard.
I can fix the lights.
There's a problem with the wiring.
No problem. I can fix that.
It's raining!
It stopped a while ago.
Can you really fix it?
Yes.
If you fix it, we can eat in the yard.
Do you have a phase meter?
I think there's one in the toolbox.
Bring it.
OK, I'll bake a cake while you do that.
Thank you.
Here, I found some light bulbs.
Thank you.
I rewired it. It was disconnected.
Thank you so much!
One down.
How pleasant!
My pleasure.
I'll leave the bulbs here
and go pick some herbs for you.
All right.
Can your neighbors see into the yard?
Those neighbors are nice
and Mrs. Hashemi's window
doesn't face this way.
I was lucky.
Very lucky!
Yes indeed!
How fortunate,
I wish I had a yard like this.
It's all yours.
Just letting me enjoy it
is more than enough.
You can come every day.
Only a fool
would turn down such an invitation.
Yes, and you're no fool.
What's your favorite herb?
Mint.
I love mint.
Mint is a very good herb.
Once you plant some...
it'll be there forever.
Nothing lasts forever.
Some things do.
Like what?
I don't know.
Maybe nothing.
These just need to be rinsed.
I never use any pesticides in my garden.
The soil is clean.
Since you have such good soil,
I'll bring some flowers
to plant tomorrow.
What flowers do you like?
Oh, I love them all.
Do you like night-blooming Jasmine?
I love it.
The smell drives me crazy.
How beautiful!
It's been dark for so long
I'd forgotten how nice it was.
The weather is so nice.
Really!
- Shall I pour you a glass?
- Please.
Do you also feel a little tipsy?
It's wonderful!
So wonderful.
- Here you are.
- Thanks.
Why did you pour out the wine?
For the dead.
It's an old tradition.
For every glass you drink,
pour out a mouthful for them.
How beautiful!
That's my share!
Cheers!
To the best night of my life.
Cheers.
Your cedars are beautiful.
- Did you plant them yourself?
- Yes.
30 years ago,
there was nothing in this garden.
I didn't have enough money
to buy plants.
One night, my friend Pouran and I
went to the neighborhood park.
They had just planted
these small saplings.
After everyone left,
we dug some up and hid them in a bag.
The night watch saw us
and ran after us!
We jumped into Pouran's car
and sped home.
After that, whenever we wanted flowers,
we'd go get them at the park.
So you're the cedar thieves
they've been after all these years!
They've grown
and aged a lot since then.
So have we.
Delicious!
When I woke up this morning,
I really didn't want to go to work.
I thought to myself:
"What a joyless life...
"Each day is exactly the same.
"Nothing new ever happens."
I never thought
I'd end up here enjoying your dolma!
I'm so glad I went to work.
Otherwise, I wouldn't have met you.
How true!
How lucky I went to that restaurant.
How true.
Why did you choose that restaurant?
There are so many others.
I get pensioners' coupons.
I go there sometimes.
I thought you went
for the balding old men.
Nonsense.
I'm joking!
They say most men...
don't know what it's like
to be loved by a woman.
Well, you do now.
Really?
And I'll put on some music
and dance for you.
Would you like that?
I would like that.
Let's go inside, then.
Are you all right?
It's the alcohol...
I'm fine.
How am I going to drive home?
Who said you have to go home tonight?
Come on, get up.
We're gonna dance.
Get up.
What kind of music do you like?
The oldies.
Me too.
Which singers?
Haydeh...
Pouran...
Rafiei.
Yes, Rafiei is also good.
I was waiting for you
Alone in the garden
Far away from you
I drank the wine of despair
I was waiting for you
I was waiting for you...
Is this your daughter?
She looks just like you.
What a beautiful picture!
Is it by the Caspian sea?
Yes, I was on my honeymoon.
We stayed at the Ramsar
for three days.
It was so beautiful.
You sound as if you were there with us.
For a second,
I felt as if I were there.
Oh!
You changed!
Look how slim and beautiful I was
when I was young.
You look better now.
I like you plumper.
Let's take a picture together!
All right.
I left my phone in the car.
We'll use mine.
Where shall we take the picture?
In front of that plant! Let's go.
Come on.
Stand on this side.
Ready?
Yes.
We have our picture.
Will you send it to me?
Yes, I will.
But don't show it to anyone!
Who would I show it to?
I don't know...
The other taxi drivers?
No way.
Why would I show them?
Sit there.
I'll bring some clean glasses.
How long since your husband died?
30 years.
How did he die?
In a car accident
on the road to Isfahan.
Why didn't you leave Iran
with your children?
My home is here.
And the lands in this area
are undocumented.
If I left, they would claim my house.
Why didn't you remarry?
It just didn't happen.
What about you?
When did you get divorced?
Many years ago.
And you've been alone since?
Yes.
Why didn't you remarry?
Once was enough.
Did you have any girlfriends?
Girlfriends?
Call them what you like.
Were there any women in your life?
There was one.
But she married a rich guy
and moved to Australia.
Why?
It's obvious!
He had more money
and he could take her to Australia.
Were you heartbroken?
Yes, I was.
How long were you together?
A few months.
We went out together a lot.
Did she come to your home?
No.
So, what did you do?
Do?
Didn't you sleep together?
No.
You haven't been with anyone
all these years?
No.
How is that possible?
Why wouldn't it be?
I thought men can't do that.
Of course we can,
sometimes that's just how it goes.
That's just how it goes!
What about you?
What about me?
Have you been with anyone?
No,
I never found a man I really wanted.
Why didn't you find me sooner?
I love this song!
Stand up, let's dance.
I don't know how.
Don't be silly!
Everyone can dance.
I need to use the bathroom first.
OK, but don't be long.
Where is it?
The first door.
Hurry back.
Very well.
Faramarz?
Hurry up!
Come dance with me!
What's taking you so long?
If the moon comes down
And knocks at my door
If the bird of fortune
Flies over my head
If the thunder rolls
Thousands of times above me
Because you're here
I wouldn't open the door
Because you're my soul mate
I wouldn't open the door
I wouldn't open the door
I wouldn't open the door...
You're so cute when you dance.
You're the cute one!
Won't the neighbors hear us
and call the Morality Police?
Let them come!
What can they do to us?
They'll force us to marry!
All this laughing
makes me have to pee again.
When was the last time you danced?
I can't remember.
How could you forget?
It was a long time ago.
With your girlfriend?
No.
Do you like dancing with me?
Very much.
Sometimes I dance here on my own.
On your own?
Who else would I dance with?
I feel flushed.
Me too.
My head is spinning.
That was so much fun!
That was so much fun!
Mahin!
Yes, dear?
You really want me to stay overnight?
Do you have to ask again?
May I take a shower
in your beautiful bathroom?
I worked all day.
I didn't know I'd be coming here.
Of course, but don't be too long.
I'll bring you a towel.
Here, take the towel.
Thank you very much.
Will you take a shower with me?
A shower?
No.
Why not? Come.
Let me wash your back.
I'm ashamed to be naked.
I'm not 20 anymore,
in a swimsuit on the beach.
Your body is perfect.
You think my body hasn't changed?
I'm too shy.
You go.
I'll listen to music and wait for you.
I think I drank too much.
Take a shower.
You'll feel refreshed.
Don't you want to feel refreshed?
I haven't been naked
in front of anyone for 30 years.
It's no problem.
I haven't seen anyone naked
for longer than that.
Is the water too cold?
No, it's perfect.
Have you ever showered
with your clothes on?
It's nice.
Plus, our clothes are getting washed.
In foreign films,
couples have showers together.
Yes.
But they don't know
how to scrub each other's backs.
Want me to wash yours?
Do the clothes fit?
They're perfect.
I made an orange blossom cake
with vanilla cream.
I always bake it
hoping someone will come.
That someone was you.
Who better than you?
What a celebration!
Let's have some cake.
Are you coming?
Where are you?
Are you asleep?
It's not time to sleep yet.
Faramarz?
Faramarz!
Are you all right?
Oh my God...
No, not this, Faramarz...
Please don't! Stay with me, please!
Please wake up! No, Faramarz...
God, why did you do this to me?
What should I do?
What's happening to me?
Tehran emergency...
It's too late!
What should I do...?
Please, Faramarz,
I'm begging you, come back.
Don't do this to me!
Please, I'm begging you...
1001, 1002, 1003, 1004...
Come back, Faramarz.
Come back!
Come back, Faramarz!
Don't do this to me, please!
Come back!
My God, why? Why?!
People are under pressure.
It's hard to find clients.
Nobody buys flowers anymore.
They don't see the need for flowers.
And the people who do...
can't afford flowers.
I used to make a better living
spraying pesticides.
But it weighed on my conscience.
You know how many
cockroaches I've killed?
Millions!
Maybe more.
Anyway, this pit is too big
for flowers. It's good for a tree.