(blog article)

On March 7th, Persepolis, an animated movie adapted from Marjane Satrapi’s graphic memoir of the same name, made a comeback in Ukrainian theaters. Initially released in 2007, the film was a collaborative effort between Satrapi and artist/director Vincent Paronnaud. It presents a poignant depiction of Satrapi’s upbringing amidst Iran’s tumultuous history, particularly during the Iranian Revolution.

Set against this backdrop, Persepolis chronicles young Marjaneh’s life as she grapples with the challenges of growing up in a politically charged and culturally rigid society. Through Marjane’s perspective, viewers witness the revolution’s effects, the emergence of fundamentalism, and the tragic toll of war. The film seamlessly blends personal storytelling with historical events, delving into themes of identity, freedom, and resilience.

Marjane’s journey from innocence to rebellion and self-discovery resonates universally, captivating audiences worldwide. Despite Satrapi often being hailed as the film’s director and writer, it’s crucial to recognize her collaboration with Paronnaud, who co-directed and co-wrote the script, contributing his own creative input.

Adapting a graphic novel into animation presented its challenges, requiring Satrapi and Paronnaud to condense and restructure the narrative while preserving its essence. The film’s animation style, characterized by simple yet expressive hand-drawn techniques, honors the graphic novel’s visual identity.

Persepolis holds significant cultural significance, particularly in Iran, where it faced censorship yet managed to reach audiences through underground channels, sparking conversations about freedom of expression and the portrayal of Iranian history. Critically acclaimed, the film garnered awards at Cannes and the French National Film Awards, alongside Oscar and Golden Globe nominations, solidifying its place as a groundbreaking animated masterpiece and a testament to the power of storytelling.

The graphic novel that inspired the film stands as one of the most renowned works in its genre, translated into over 20 languages, including Ukrainian.