Masters of the Frame: An In-Depth Exploration of Directorial Styles in Contemporary Cinema

Raaj Desai
2 min readSep 19, 2023

--

Majid Majidi: A Poet of Human Emotions

Majid Majidi, an Iranian filmmaker, is celebrated for his profound storytelling and his ability to evoke deep emotions through his films. In this section, we will explore Majidi’s unique directing style and his contributions to world cinema.

Plot:

Majid Majidi’s plots are characterized by their simplicity and focus on the human experience. He is a master at portraying the universal struggles of ordinary people, often in everyday settings. Majidi’s narratives are driven by emotion, emphasizing the triumph of the human spirit against adversity.

Story:

Majidi excels in creating empathetic characters who grapple with life’s challenges. His storytelling is marked by its intimacy and its ability to touch the core of human emotions. His films, such as “Children of Heaven” and “The Color of Paradise,” invite audiences to reflect on the beauty of life’s simplicity.

Screenplay:

Majidi’s screenplays are minimalistic, allowing the visuals and performances to speak volumes. He often relies on non-professional actors to convey authenticity, emphasizing the importance of human connection over theatricality.

Visual Style:

Majid Majidi’s visual style is characterized by a naturalistic approach. He often uses natural light and authentic locations to capture the essence of his characters’ lives. This approach fosters a sense of realism that enables audiences to immerse themselves fully in his narratives.

Shot Division:

Majidi employs a mix of close-ups and medium shots to highlight his characters’ emotions and interactions. He lingers on moments of introspection, allowing viewers to connect deeply with the inner worlds of his protagonists.

Blocking:

Blocking in Majidi’s films emphasizes the physical and emotional proximity of characters. It serves to showcase their connections and conflicts, often mirroring the subtleties of human relationships.

Importance to Cinema:

Majid Majidi’s directing style is a testament to the power of simplicity and human emotion in storytelling. His films serve as a reminder that the most profound stories often lie in the everyday experiences of ordinary people. Majidi’s ability to connect deeply with audiences through universally relatable narratives has made him a revered figure in world cinema.

--

--

Raaj Desai

Director/Filmmaker/ Cinematographer / DOP / Photographer / Cinema lover /Artist