“Through the Olive Trees” is a 1994 Iranian film directed by Abbas Kiarostami. It is the final installment in Kiarostami’s “Koker Trilogy,” which also includes “Where Is the Friend’s Home?” (1987) and “And Life Goes On” (1992). The film takes a meta-cinematic approach by blurring the lines between fiction and reality, incorporating elements of documentary filmmaking within a fictional narrative.

“Through the Olive Trees” revolves around the production of a film in a rural village in Iran. The story follows a young man named Hossein, who auditions for a role in the film and falls in love with the actress Tahereh. Despite his efforts to win her over, Tahereh rejects his advances due to the disapproval of her family. The film explores themes of love, persistence, and the boundaries between fiction and real life.

One of the remarkable aspects of “Through the Olive Trees” is Kiarostami’s unique storytelling style. He blurs the lines between documentary and fiction by incorporating non-professional actors playing versions of themselves. This approach gives the film a realistic and authentic feel, immersing the audience in the lives of the characters and the rural setting.

The cinematography in the film is also notable. Kiarostami captures the beauty of the Iranian countryside, particularly the vast olive tree fields that serve as a symbolic backdrop throughout the story. The slow pacing and long takes allow viewers to contemplate the characters’ emotions and reflect on the themes presented.

Thematically, “Through the Olive Trees” explores the persistence of human desire and the challenges faced in pursuit of love. Hossein’s unwavering determination to win Tahereh’s affection highlights the complexities of relationships and the cultural norms that can hinder them. The film also touches on the role of cinema in representing reality, blurring the boundaries between the film within the film and the actual lives of the actors.

Overall, “Through the Olive Trees” is a thought-provoking and visually stunning film. It showcases Kiarostami’s mastery in merging fiction and reality, while exploring themes of love, persistence, and the power of cinema. It is a captivating and introspective work that continues to be celebrated as one of the defining films in Iranian cinema.