Like waiting for taxis on a rainy night, one often anticipates a remarkable, poignant film centered on love in later life intertwined with culinary delights. Surprisingly, two such films emerged almost simultaneously. The Tehran-based yet globally crafted comedy-drama My Favourite Cake debuted shortly after Valentine’s Day, coinciding with the release of a French drama in various significant regions. (Taste premiered in the U.S. on Feb. 9.)
While both films, including the Berlinale contender by writer-director , and Tran Anh Hung’s period piece featuring Juliette Binoche and Benoit Magimel, offer distinct narratives, they share intriguing parallels. Each underscores the transient essence of existence and portrays intricate, mature characters, notably one of whom is a skilled chef expressing affection through culinary creations. Moreover, both protagonists courageously embrace pleasure, joy, and love, defying societal norms in the process.
My Favourite Cake
The Bottom Line
A delectable portrayal of life.
Venue: Berlin Film Festival (Competition)
Cast: Lily Farhadpour, Esmaeil Mehrabi, Mansoureh Ilkhani, Soraya Orang, Homa Mottahedin, Mehdi Pilehvari, Melika Pazoki, Effat Rasoulinezhad
Directors: Maryam Moghaddam, Behtash Sanaeeha
Screenwriters: Behtash Sanaeeha & Maryam Moghaddam
Duration: 1 hour 36 minutes
However, a significant contrast lies in the contemporary, conservative backdrop of Iran, where the 70-year-old widow Mahin (Lily Farhadpour) and the divorced taxi driver Faramarz (Esmaeil Mehrabi) navigate a budding romance fraught with potential repercussions, particularly for Mahin. Against the backdrop of nationwide protests surrounding the tragic death of Mahsa Amini in police custody due to a hijab-related issue, Cake resonates with the bold, liberating spirit of the Woman, Life, Freedom movement ingrained in its essence.
The mere creation of such a film, where the female lead not only challenges traditional norms by refusing to conceal her hair entirely under a hijab but also extends an invitation to a near stranger to spend the night at her place, epitomizes an act of rebellion. Unsurprisingly, the Iranian authorities denied travel visas to Moghaddam and Sanaeeha, life partners and creative collaborators, preventing their attendance at the festival. (Their previous works include and Risk of Acid Rain.)
Infused with humor and depth, Cake maintains its charm even in translation until a pivotal tonal shift occurs. From its anti-establishment stance to its celebration of body positivity and zest for life, the film captivates audiences across various spectrums, except perhaps those who uphold rigid moral or doctrinal beliefs.
Presented with sharp, comedic finesse within a concise 96-minute timeframe, Cake unfolds with Mahin, a habitual late riser, in her tranquil abode, reminiscing about her past. Living alone for decades since her husband’s passing, she grapples with the absence of her daughter and yearns to witness her grandchildren’s growth, relying on phone conversations to bridge the distance. Despite her arthritic knees, she maintains connections with fellow widows, notably her close friend Puran (Mansoureh Ilkhani), who playfully admonishes her for oversleeping and discusses mundane health issues.
During a luncheon with her vibrant friends, the topic of male companionship sparks introspection in Mahin, leading her to a chance encounter in a park that embroils her in a hijab-related confrontation. This incident triggers a wave of nostalgia, prompting Mahin to impulsively engage with Faramarz, a genial taxi driver she finds intriguing. Their ensuing interaction unfolds with a blend of audacity and warmth, culminating in a whimsical invitation that hints at unspoken desires and newfound connections.
Captured almost in real-time reminiscent of Richard Linklater’s style, the latter part of the film delves into Mahin and Faramarz’s evolving rapport within the confines of her home, fueled by alcohol and a shared sense of daring. The filmmakers and actors orchestrate this elderly courtship with impeccable timing, fluid camera movements, and a memorable climax, accentuating the ephemeral yet poignant nature of their union. While some may debate the final narrative twist, the poignant epilogue neatly ties up the storyline, leaving viewers hopeful for future cinematic endeavors from this talented team.