Last night, in an all-but-sold-out theatre, the Calgary International Film Festival played host to the Canadian Premiere of Abbas Kiarostami’s Certified Copy. I wasn’t familiar with Kiarostami’s work prior to this film, but I’ll be sure to seek him out in the future.Writer James Miller (William Shimell) is touring Italy with his latest book, Certified Copy, a layperson’s study on the significance of official replicas of artistic masterpieces. Elle (Juliette Binoche), plays a French antiques dealer living in Tuscany with her teenaged son Julien.
After reading Miller’s book, Elle disagrees with many of its arguments and sets out to confront the author in person. The two spend the day walking through a small, nearby town, admiring and discussing various pieces of local art, both authentic and replicated. At first appearing to be strangers, it’s left for the audience to decide if Miller and Elle infact share a deeper history.
Juliette Binoche is, as always, genuine and superb in this film, while William Shimell takes on the role of the somewhat egocentric intellectual with charisma. Certified Copy provides an almost voyeuristic glimpse into the often awkward conversation between strangers. Neither censors their opinions and are unapologetic when disagreeing with the others’ views.
Driven by dialogue, with long, meaningful breaks in conversation, Certified Copy is a film about the power of art, while not focusing on art. Intellectual, yet unpretentious, it has a languid, quiet pace reminiscent of last years’ Cairo Time (starring Patricia Clarkson and Alexander Siddig). The film makes stunning use of the picturesque landscape, stopping to admire the ancient structures and tranquil Tuscan countryside.
Kiarostami's use of scenery and dialogue makes for a unique film that, at times, pays more attention to the periphery than to the characters. In one scene, Miller and Elle drive out of Tuscany, discussing his book. As the car rolls along, the scene is shot from outside the windshield, the actors’ faces obscured by reflections of the passing scenery. In another, an unseen museum guide explains the history of a piece of art, while Elle translates for Miller. While watching the conversation take place between the two stars, you hear the tour guides’ narration instead.
With no encore showing at the festival this year, you’ll have to wait for your next opportunity to see Certified Copy. It’s an opportunity I suggest you not miss.
