First feature director, Desiree Arkhavan's Appropriate Behavior is a coming of age tale of twenty something American - Iranian, Shirin coming to terms with her recent break up and attempting to come out as bisexual to her traditional Iranian family.
Set in hipster paradise Brooklyn New York and following the trials and tribulations surrounding out spoken and fiercely confessional Shirin, the similarities to Lena Dunham's GIRLS were obvious. However, upon watching Appropriate Behavior, it's clear that Arkhavan stands on her own feet and has an entirely different tone to Dunham and her counterparts such as Greta Gerwig. Reason? Until now we have yet to have seen the issue of sexuality and culture explored in quarter-life crisis, solipsist tales. We have certainly been here before but Arkhavan shows a distinct and unique style in storytelling.
There are some extremely moving and perceptive sequences, one in particular is during the threesome where Shirin emotionally checks out - the detachment the lead character is feeling is expressed so eloquently just through the shifty camera work and Arkhavan's silence - it's the most emotive sequence in the film.
In some respects the layout of the film is similar to Woody Allen's Annie Hall, often going back in time to happier (and destructive..) moments with her ex and then back to the present day - it's a sophisticated method and works extremely well. We would have liked to have seen more sequences with Shirin's best friend, Crystal (played by Halley Feiffer) - she is a wonderful addition to the film.
At times it's difficult to warm to the lead actress (played by Director, Arkhavan) - her dead pan expressions can be slightly tedious and hard to digest. Although her charming honesty and overall wittiness engages the audience - with killer one liners such as "you have the sex appeal of a fairy" and "I can't believe you've replaced me with that fetus" it's certainly difficult not to laugh and be utterly taken by this fresh new talent.
We are looking forward to interviewing Desiree Arkhavan tomorrow at LFF's Afternoon Tea Session at The Mayfair Hotel.
To see a clip from the film click here.
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