The Septembers Of Shiraz

Isaac and Farnaz visit Isaac’s parents. Isaac’s father has become sentimental in his old age and sickness. Isaac is immersed in memories of his childhood of material and emotional poverty: His father was a cold and violent man, who lost his mother at a young age, after her husband committed her to a sanatorium in Switzerland. 

Isaac and Farnaz meet two people-smugglers to discuss possible escape plans. The smugglers cannot guarantee the success of the trip, alleging many dangers; they also reveal few details beyond a meeting at Tabriz, near the border with Turkey. They require a hefty fee and the family’s trust. The trip would happen in September, when there is less traffic, and after Isaac’s feet have had a chance to heal. Despite everything, Farnaz is now finally willing to take the journey. Later, Isaac works on falsifying Shirin’s passport.

Shirin sits in the car as the family drives to the Caspian resort where they have always spent their holidays for one last time. Her parents tell her of the planned escape in September. When they get to their beach house, however, a strange man opens the door. He claims that the house now belongs to him—the new government gave it to him because he serves the Revolution.