You are here:

The Salesman

The Salesman

Representation Score

4.3/10

Fair

2016

PG-13

Director

Asghar Farhadi

Runtime

125 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Asghar Farhadi’s drama stands out by dismantling social hierarchies rather than adhering to demographic quotas. Its strength lies in its deep psychological exploration and its avoidance of simplistic moral solutions. Though the film lacks LGBTQ+ or disability representation, it offers a nuanced critique of gender roles and cultural honor codes. It delves into how broader societal pressures shape individual actions. The production is rooted in Iranian culture, which limits racial diversity but provides a detailed, authentic view of class and domestic life in Tehran.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does The Salesman have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses solely on straight relationships and does not include any representations of LGBTQ+ identities or narratives.

How does The Salesman portray gender?

Good

The story emphasizes the psychological journey of the female lead, challenging traditional patriarchal norms. It highlights how obsession can undermine a woman's ability to drive the story.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Salesman?

Fair

The cast primarily consists of actors from similar cultural backgrounds, providing an authentic glimpse into the socioeconomic and class dynamics of Tehran.

How does The Salesman represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film challenges black-and-white moral judgments by exploring how societal pressures influence personal decisions. It questions the sanctity of institutions like marriage through a lens of systemic forces.

Does The Salesman include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no significant portrayals of individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities, nor do such traits play a central role in the narrative.

Present on Screen

  • Complex examination of patriarchal norms and traditional masculine honor.
  • Realistic portrayal of Middle Eastern socioeconomic and class dynamics.
  • In-depth exploration of moral relativism and situational ethics.

Limited or Absent

  • No representation of LGBTQ+ identities or narratives.
  • Absence of physical or neurodivergent disability representation.
  • Limited racial and ethnic diversity in the cast.

Official Synopsis

Forced out of their apartment due to dangerous works on a neighboring building, Emad and Rana move into a new flat in the center of Tehran. An incident linked to the previous tenant will dramatically change the young couple’s life.

How are these scores produced? →

Where to Watch

Rate this Movie

No rating selected
Use arrow keys to select a rating from 1 to 5 stars
Optional text review, maximum 2000 characters
Tip: Wrap spoilers with ||double pipes|| to hide them
0/2000 characters
You must be signed in to submit a rating

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this movie!

Use the rating form above to leave a star rating and optional review.