Breakfast with Dinosaurs: Reflections of Life, Struggles, and Resilience
In the bustling city of Tehran, a metropolis filled with vibrant energy and contrasting narratives, an extraordinary artwork comes to life. Breakfast with Dinosaurs, written and directed by Shahram Entekhabi, delves into the social fabric of contemporary Iranian society, exploring the diverse manifestations of life within this urban landscape. Through fusion of visual elements, personal narratives, and thought-provoking storytelling, the artwork captures the essence of struggle, resilience, and the quest for happiness amidst adversity.

The film serves as a bridge between two worlds—the inner and outer lives experienced by the people of Tehran. It unveils the stark contrast between the private spaces where individuals find solace and the crowded, fast-paced awareness of public spaces. To navigate these realms, the film takes us on a journey through the eyes of Tehran's taxi drivers, a cross-section of society representing various backgrounds and experiences. From the professional working class to highly educated individuals seeking employment, they provide valuable insights into the political, social, and economic landscapes of the nation.

Amidst these narratives, a mysterious masked female character emerges, engaging in abstract and performative actions. Her presence adds a poetic layer to the film, expressing themes of deprivation, abandonment, melancholy, and victimhood. Through her enigmatic persona, viewers are prompted to reflect on deeper societal issues, fostering contemplation and empathy.

"Reflections of Life: Struggles and Resilience" holds profound significance for Shahram Entekhabi as an artist. The project seeks to shed light on the hardships faced by ordinary people, capturing their raw emotions and experiences. Through a careful selection of visual elements, materials, and techniques, Entekhabi weaves a tapestry that resonates with the audience on a deep and emotional level.

The artwork employs a rich mixture of mediums, including drawings, paintings, and text, to create a layered composition. Acrylic paints, charcoal, and ink contribute to the textured and visually captivating experience, allowing the viewers to immerse themselves in the stories and sentiments conveyed.

Shapes and colors play a vital role in conveying the complexity of the human experience within the film. Organic shapes symbolize the uniqueness of each individual's life, while contrasting colors evoke a range of emotions. Vibrant hues stand alongside somber tones, reflecting the contrasting emotions present in the narratives. Warm colors ignite passion and intensity, while cool tones bring about a sense of calmness and introspection.

Textures serve as a metaphor for the multidimensional nature of the human condition. Through varying brushstrokes and textured surfaces, the artist aims to evoke a tactile response, creating depth and complexity. Smooth and serene textures intertwine with rough and chaotic ones, mirroring the emotional fluctuations depicted in the narratives.

Intertwined with the visual elements, fragmented texts capture the essence of the individuals' stories. The scattered presentation of the text reflects the fragmented nature of the human experience, inviting viewers to piece together the narratives and connect with the emotions conveyed.

Through the amalgamation of visual elements, personal narratives, and audio-visual techniques, Breakfast with Dinosaurs invites viewers to contemplate the socio-cultural landscape of Tehran and broader Iranian society. It sparks dialogue, raises questions, and provides insight into the lived experiences of individuals navigating a rapidly changing urban environment.

Ultimately, the artwork aims to inspire empathy, contemplation, and a deeper understanding of the human condition. By shedding light on the diverse challenges faced by individuals, it seeks to foster compassion and ignite positive change in society. Breakfast with Dinosaurs serves as a testament to the struggles and resilience of ordinary people, inviting us all to reflect on our own journeys and find hope in the face of adversity.

Breakfast with Dinosaurs, 2018
Video: Full HD, Audio: Dolby Digital, Run time: 40:24 min. Language: Persian (with English subtitles)
Written and directed by Shahram Entekhabi
With the assistance of Yasaman Pishvaei
Performer: Yasaman Pishvaei