Have you ever considered the intriguing blend of Iranian New Wave cinema set against the backdrop of the cold, stony streets of Winnipeg, Manitoba? Admittedly, I hadn’t until I encountered Universal Language, a film that has captivated my thoughts about this prominent Canadian city.
Directed and co-written by Matthew Rankin, this film weaves together three interconnected narratives in a version of Winnipeg that feels reminiscent of Iran during the 80s and 90s. Uniquely, Farsi replaces English in this quirky comedy-drama where ordinary people navigate their everyday existence. At the center of this eccentric narrative are a duo of sisters, a whimsical tour guide, and a former Quebec government employee, guiding us through Winnipeg’s concrete jungle.
An Absurdist Journey Through Winnipeg
For audiences familiar with Winnipeg and broader Canadian culture, Universal Language delivers an enjoyable experience. While absurdist films may not appeal to everyone, Rankin’s work thrives on its purposely awkward visuals and the deadpan delivery of humorous moments, making it a delightful follow-up to his previous endeavors. The muted gray and beige tones of a snow-covered city contrast beautifully with the film’s underlying warmth, enhanced by an engaging 80s aesthetic.
Rankin, alongside co-writers Pirouz Nemati and Ila Firouzabadi, subverts expectations with a visual storytelling style that is refreshingly unpredictable and charming. The film’s core message comes through clearly; despite its whimsical nature, there is a deeply personal narrative thread that drives its compassionate viewpoint, vividly captured through meticulous camerawork and cinematography.
The film’s randomness is enriched by cultural nuances. Rankin pays homage to Winnipeg, often the butt of jokes, but he successfully conveys his affection for the city. He even makes a cameo as Matthew, a government employee who humorously quits his job to care for his mother, offering comedic yet relatable insights into the mundanity of bureaucratic life.
While this heartfelt storyline unfolds, it ultimately takes center stage in the latter half of the film. Rankin’s mission is to express his admiration for Winnipeg, which transitions into a broader call for unity amid diverse cultures. The interactions between the characters, their dialogues, and the harmonious melding of Farsi and French serve as highlights. Remarkably, there are no heavy disputes about cultural superiority; instead, the film creates a whimsical yet aspirational world where diverse backgrounds coexist.
Fostering Empathy and Unity
In a time when intolerance seems prevalent and cultural differences are often polarizing, Universal Language stands as a poignant counter-narrative. Timely and resonant, it arrives in the wake of alarming incidents like the recent attack in Ajax, Ontario, where a woman was targeted for wearing a hijab. Although the film delves into language barriers, Rankin captures the emotional complexity surrounding Canada’s multiethnic identity, reacting to the rising discontent towards its cultural mosaic.
Universal Language adheres to the conventions of absurdist cinema, employing deadpan humor and straightforward plotlines that engage viewers. However, it also serves as an emotional litmus test, challenging audiences to embrace cultural dialogue and appreciate the value of diversity. Rather than demanding that Farsi be recognized as an official language, Rankin advocates for empathy and understanding, emphasizing that the features that divide us do not diminish our shared humanity.
With precision, Universal Language reveals that despite differing cultural identities, individuals from varied backgrounds can adapt and coexist within a community like Winnipeg. Language, faith, culture, race, and ethnicity should not hinder harmony among residents. Ultimately, the narrative may be secondary to the film’s engaging execution—a distinct blend that recalls the unique styles of Wes Anderson and Abbas Kiarostami, offering insights that transcend aesthetic and comedic elements.
This film powerfully reassures us that Canadian identity is not determined by superficial measures; rather, it is our character that truly defines us, transcending language and cultural barriers.