During Yalda, a once-a-year celebration of the winter solstice in Iran, a day of forgiveness occurs. Under Iranian law, execution is the sentence for the most serious offenses; however, the justice system also allows for a reduced prison sentence and payment of a “price of blood” debt if the victim’s family agrees to forgive the perpetrator. During the week of Yalda, forgiveness turns into a public spectacle in a popular reality tv show “The Joy of Forgiveness”. Maryam Komijani (Massaud Bakshi) will be the subject of this particular show and is convicted of killing her 65-year-old husband; she faces the death sentence unless her husband’s only daughter Mona (Behnaz Jafari) agrees to forgive her. If Mona forgives Maryam of her crime, the television station agrees to pay Mona the blood money. The show’s charismatic host Omid (Arman Darvish) keeps the audience enthralled during the reenactment of the story and the testimony given by Mona and Maryam; the excitement and flair of the show are reminiscent of Slum Dog Millionaire. Even the audience plays an important role in deciding Maryam’s fate by texting “yes” or “no” for forgiveness.
In handcuffs, Maryam approaches the television station in Tehran with her mother. The city is brightly lit in the evening. Maryam is quickly ushered in and told to wait nearby the director while the production team waits for Mona’s arrival. Nervous and scared, the young Maryam comes close to backing out several times and must be persuaded by her mother and the director to wait calmly. Backstage, a flurry of activities occurs as the television staff prepares the show for air. Mona finally arrives. Once the show starts, it is all glitz, and Omid, the host, appears very solicitous toward Mona; using a short documentary, the crime is reenacted. Mona is interviewed to tell her side of the story. Seemingly cold and also hurt by her father’s death, Mona gives a believable performance. She seems unwilling to forgive Mona; Omid continues to be sympathetic while also reminding Mona of the value of forgiveness. Maryam protests a few times that Mona is lying; and, Omid calms Maryam down and lets her know she will have her chance to speak. When it is Maryam’s turn to talk, she states that she did not kill her husband; it was an accident that he fell down the stairs. She appeals to Mona, who use to be her friend and colleague, to forgive her. As the drama unfolds, several surprising events happen—making the film thrilling and keeping everyone expectant. It is difficult to determine whether Mona will forgive Maryam until the full story plays out and the final answer is unveiled. With outstanding performances, stirring music, and an unbelievable idea for a television show, this film is recommended. Aud: H, C, P.