Gabbeh (Persian: گبه) is a 1996 Iranian film directed by Mohsen Makhmalbaf. It was screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the 1996 Cannes Film Festival. The film was selected as the Iranian entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 70th Academy Awards, but was not accepted as a nominee.
Plot
The film derives its name from a type of Persian rug. It begins by showing an elderly couple, carrying their gabbeh, walking towards a river hoping to wash it. When the rug is spread upon the ground, a girl, referred to as Gabbeh, magically comes out of it. The film follows her story and the audience learn about her family, her uncle who is hoping to find a bride, and, most importantly, her longing for a young man she hopes to marry.
Cast
Abbas Sayah as Uncle
Shaghayeh Djodat as Gabbeh
Hossein Moharami as Old Man
Rogheih Moharami as Old Woman
Parvaneh Ghalandari
Release
The film had its world premiere at the 1996 Cannes Film Festival. Shortly after was banned in Iran for being "subversive".
Awards
Best Director and Special Critics Award, Sitges Film Festival, 1996
Silver Screen Award, Singapore International Film Festival
Best Artistic Contribution Award, Tokyo International Film Festival
One of 10 selected films by critics – Times (USA) 1996.