Our Man in Tehran

Since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Iran has presented a hostile face to the West—particularly the so-called "Great Satan": America. Dutch journalist Thomas Erdbrink hosts this two-part PBS-aired Frontline documentary by filmmaker Roel van Broekhoven, which examines contemporary life in this often isolated country. Erdbrink, who is married to an Iranian photographer, sees the country from the inside. In Iran, there are rules for everything. While most Iranians are friendly and curious about the West, asking the wrong questions or venturing into the wrong areas can get one into trouble. The rules can be unevenly applied, hard to understand, or downright ridiculous, such as women being asked to sit in the back of the bus because they might "distract the driver." Since expressions of physical affection between sexes is forbidden on film, one actress has won fame as the "queen of looks." Being an alcoholic (alcohol is officially forbidden) can land you a membership in AA…and lead to a flogging. Life is unpredictable as the government's "morality police" keep watch 24/7, and America is blamed for everything, including droughts. (Iranians with long memories also remember America's real role in overthrowing a democratically elected president in the early 1950s.) Colorful characters abound, including a TV censor who dissects the morality of zumba fitness dancing; an Islamic radical known as "Mr. Big Mouth," who scorns and then embraces the Internet; and an Iranian exile, hailed as the country's answer to Rod Stewart, who lives in America, but has a fervent underground following back home. Iran is a young country, and while some dream of martyrdom, others long to go to America, and young women who want reforms will risk arrest by waving their head scarves from public platforms. Life has worsened since Trump cancelled the nuclear deal and re-imposed sanctions, but as one Iranian notes, "If you live with fear, you're done." Offering a clear-eyed and affectionate look at the land and its people, this is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees)