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Ballad of Tara

Name: Ballad of Tara
Director: Bahram Beyzai
Released: 1979
Duration: 110 min

Representation Score

8.6/10

Excellent

1979

Director

Bahram Beyzai

Runtime

110 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Bahram Beyzai’s work is a sophisticated exploration of social hierarchies. By using mythological frameworks, the film examines the tension between individual freedom and communal traditions. The film excels in its authentic portrayal of non-Western cultural elements. It avoids a Western-centric viewpoint by grounding its narrative in specific Iranian folklore and rural life. While the film does not include modern identity-specific stories like LGBTQ+ or disability narratives, it achieves depth through its examination of gendered power and societal expectations.

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Category Breakdown

Does Ballad of Tara have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film focuses on traditional heterosexual and family relationships. It does not explicitly depict individuals with non-binary genders or same-sex relationships.

How does Ballad of Tara portray gender?

Good

Tara is a widow who faces patriarchal constraints. The film challenges passive stereotypes by highlighting her active role and emotional journey.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Ballad of Tara?

Excellent

The movie offers a strong portrayal of indigenous Iranian identity. It avoids a Western perspective by focusing on a rural village and using local folklore.

How does Ballad of Tara represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The story questions strict social and traditional institutions. It uses myths and folklore to challenge the absolute authority of village customs and inherited traditions.

Does Ballad of Tara include disability representation?

Fair

There are no prominent depictions of visible or invisible disabilities. Characters are primarily defined by their roles within the village hierarchy.

Present on Screen

Authentic portrayal of indigenous Iranian identity and local folklore.
Highlights the protagonist's active role and emotional journey.
Sophisticated critique of traditional social and communal power structures.

Limited or Absent

Lack of explicit representation for LGBTQ+ identities.
Absence of visible or invisible disability narratives.

Official Synopsis

Beautiful young widow Tara returns to her village with her two children from the country. On her way home, she learns that her grandfather has died, and distributes his belongings among her neighbours. But there remains an old sword that no one will accept. One day, on the road, Tara meets an ancient warrior, who claims that his clan have sent him to take the old sword back.

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