Ahmadreza Ahmadi, A Man Who Is Not Like His Poems

Nasser Saffarian’s A Good Time for Tragedy (Vaght-e Khoob-e Masaeb) and Care for Me, Lady! (Banoo Mara Daryab!) are two often-overlooked documentaries that showcase the life and work of Ahmadreza Ahmadi, an Iranian poet and prominent figure in Iran’s New Wave Poetry movement. In these documentaries, Saffarian weaves images; poetry; and interviews with family, friends, artists, critics, and filmmakers together into stunning cinematic works. Most importantly, by using original recordings of Ahmadi reciting his poems and giving readings and talks, Saffarian creates an intimate portrait of this remarkable poet and provides the audience with an exceptionally emotional experience. The modest, unique form of Ahmadi's poetry conceals a sharp mind and a wonderfully generous heart. Both documentaries are nothing less than cinematic poetry, each taking a vibrant and sensitive look at life, love, and death.