By Mahin Zia
In “The Chorus,” a film by Kiarostami, an elderly man, struggling with hearing loss,
wanders through bustling streets. His hearing aid, a constant companion, is his only
connection to the world of sound. However, when the cacophony of city life becomes
overwhelming, he removes his aid -- retreating into a world of silence.
As he navigates the crowded streets, he’s drawn to the sounds of everyday life: the
chatter of pedestrians, the clanging of construction, and the wail of sirens. He stands
transfixed, absorbing the symphony of sounds; he blushes with a deep longing.
The old man's thirst for melody is palpable. He craves the beauty of sound, the harmony
that brings joy to his heart. In an increasingly loud and chaotic world, he finds
solace in the raw music of human activity.
The film's climax is a masterclass in emotional storytelling. The old man, still struggling
to hear, is surprised by a chorus of children singing outside his window. His
granddaughter, who had been calling out to him, is joined by her schoolmates, their
voices blending in perfect harmony.
As the old man finally hears the melody, his face lights up with an uncontainable joy.
The camera lingers on his tear-stained face, capturing the profundity of the moment.
The sound of the children’s voices is like a balm to his soul, soothing his thirst for
melody.
The ending is extraordinarily beautiful, panning to a wide shot of him seeing children below his window. His granddaughter is accompanied by other children of her school and their intermittent calling takes the shape of a melody. The old deaf man hears them and his happiness is unfathomable.
“The Chorus” is a powerful exploration of the human experience. It’s a testament to the
transformative power of sound and music, and the deep connections that bind us all.
Kiarostami’s masterful direction weaves a narrative that’s both poignant and uplifting,
leaving the viewer with a sense of hope and renewal.
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