Set in an Iranian factory, Mahdi Borjian’s near twenty minute short film is one of conflict in human relationships. The titular Tadji (Fatemeh Neyshabori) works as a manager at the factory, whose subordinates include husband Moretza (Moretza Khanjani). Their home life is already complicated enough, with gender dynamics and toxic traits on display from Moretza, combined with the secret of him managing a gambling loss that is coming due. This is all added to the professional dynamic, with Moretza using his position as Tadji’s husband to his advantage, flaunting rules that she has to enforce in order to not display special treatment for her spouse.
When another worker is disciplined for an infraction and then calls Moretza out on his own, his petty behavior leads to a difficult decision for Tadji as she has to choose between doing the right thing and protecting him from his own actions.
It’s a complex, interesting film that really puts several dynamics on display, from personal to professional. With Tadji being the focus, it’s clear that Borjian is exploring these complexities in a number of ways, ranging from how Tadji behaves as a wife, as a manager, and as a person. Moretza also does the same, from the stereotypes of masculinity and husbandly duty that he’s seemingly unable to fulfill in his own mind to the inability to deal with feeling emasculated.
Neyshabori and Khanjani are both stellar in this, with Neyshabori especially commanding the screen throughout the film. Her internal and external struggles with balancing work and family when they’re so intertwined is fascinating, and the ways in which Neyshabori displays that is so well done.
The film has already gained quite a reputation for its brilliance, qualifying for Oscar consideration thanks to a win at the Foyle Film Festival. It’s also been featured as a spotlight entry into the HollyShorts Film Festival and other international screenings.
To put it simply, Tadji is an incredibly told, complex and very human story that pits what needs to be done against what will protect your loved ones. It contrasts the professional versus the personal, and of loyalty in the face of obfuscation and untruth. Borjian’s writing and directing in this film are top notch, and all the consideration its gotten for top awards is totally justified. It’s a fantastic watch, and a film that keeps you thinking about your own life long after you’ve finished watching it.
