Stardust Stricken: Mohsen Makhmalbaf, A Portrait

Director Mohsen Makhmalbaf claims to have never seen a movie before making his first film. Doubtful as it sounds, this boast matches perfectly with the controversial artist's personae. Stardust Stricken -- Mohsen Makhmalbaf: A Portrait documents the work of this Iranian filmmaker. After spending time in prison for political dissidence, Makhmalbaf discovered the social potential of the cinema. Some of his projects include Marriage of the Blessed and The Actor. While creating around 20 films, the outspoken director established new ideas about the nature of his work. In this release, Makhmalbaf speaks about art, human behavior, and his evolving fundamentalist beliefs.

Directed by Houshang Golmakani, Stardust Stricken: Mohsen Makhmalbaf, A Portrait leans on a strong ensemble — Mohammadali Keshavarz, Mohsen Makhmalbaf, Fatemeh Makhmalbaf — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 1996.