Orca (2021) User Reviews

A Pleasant Piece of Contemporary Iranian Cinema

[bohdanascheinostova · 7/10 · 30 August 2023]

An inspiring real-life story about a Guiness World Record holder Elham Asghari. Even though this film is centered around swimming, the main plot tackles much deeper serious issues such as religious, political and sexist obstacles that are built for women in sports in Iran and also domestic violence. On the other hand it also beautifully shows the journey of fighting for your dreams and what it takes to become your true self. The whole film is accompanied by a very soothing and enjoyable music score. I must also highlight the performance of Taraneh Alidoosti , who proves once again that she is an unstoppable force in contemporary Iranian cinema.

Trying to reach a peak

[parvasnan · 6/10 · 28 October 2023]

This movie is one of the movies that were released this year. Ali Dosti's song is perfect as always. The story of this movie is based on reality and is actually considered a biographical movie. The actors have played their roles well. The dialogues and actually the way of thinking of some people in the story sometimes become so nerve-wracking that the audience completely sympathizes with the lead actor and puts himself in similar situations. Trying to reach a peak, despite many obstacles, forms the whole story and this is something that many of us have experienced in different ways. It is a good movie.

Absolutely magnificent!!!

[poobix-57363 · 10/10 · 9 October 2023]

This beautifully shot and masterfully directed biopic revolves around real-life Iranian swimmer Elham Asghari and her struggles to set an unprecedented record of swimming kilometres in the sea, in a country where women are deprived of their most basic human rights and female athletes are obliged to follow the most ridiculously complicated regulations regarding their clothes and posture. Set in contemporary Iran, Elham is denied by the swimming federation of Iran to have broken an actual record when women are now allowed to do so, based on Islamic governing rules as it is referred to multiple times during the movie. Elham, therefore, embarks on a journey headed towards breaking a Guinness record and becoming the first Iranian to achieve such honour. While on this journey of hers, she comes across charitable ethnic characters in the south of Iran ( where she breaks her Guinness record ), allowing us to become familiar with their rich culture and heritage. It is, also, worth highlighting that Taraneh Alidoosti ( the star of academy-award-winning film The Salesman by Asghar Farhadi ) once again shines as the legendary actress she is, conveying Elham's struggles and emotions throughout the most dramatic scenes of the film.

Inspiring Tale of Triumph

[mrbqjwq · 9/10 · 14 October 2023]

"Orca is a remarkable film that tells the story of Elham, a young Iranian woman who defies the odds after surviving a horrifying assault by her husband. Her solace and strength emerge in the water, where she discovers her extraordinary talent as an endurance swimmer. Her unwavering determination to break the Guinness world record for swimming the longest distance with her hands tied becomes a symbol of resilience.

Elham's path is far from easy, as she confronts political, religious, and personal obstacles that challenge her at every turn. The film paints a vivid picture of the oppressive societal norms that restrict women's freedom in Iran. It's a thought-provoking and emotional journey that raises important questions about gender equality and personal freedom.

'Orca' is anchored by a stellar lead performance that captures the depth and complexity of Elham's character. This film is not only a testament to human spirit but also a poignant reminder of the struggles women face in a repressive society. With its powerful storytelling and excellent acting, 'Orca' deserves a solid 9 out of 10."