My Favourite Cake (2024)
Original title: Keyke mahboobe man
My Favourite Cake offers a touching, bittersweet look at life in modern Iran. It follows Mahin, a 70-year-old widow, as she tries to shake off loneliness by inviting a stranger over for a date. This charming story explores love, longing, and the quest for happiness in a society shaped by strict traditions.
The film’s strength lies in the nuanced way it depicts Iranian culture and the difficulties of becoming older in a conservative society. Director Maryam Moghaddam creates a story that feels both personal and universal, drawing us into Mahin’s journey for connection. While the pacing is deliberate and occasionally slow, those who stay patient will find the depth rewarding.
Lily Farhadpour brings warmth and vulnerability to Mahin, capturing both her resilience and her fears. Her chemistry with Esmaeel Mehrabi, playing the awkward yet endearing Faramarz, is the emotional core of the film. Supporting characters, like the nosy neighbour, add layers of tension and highlight the societal pressures at play.
Visually, the film is stunning. Warm tones draw you into Mahin’s world, while tight framing in her small apartment mirrors the societal constraints she faces. Some outdoor scenes, however, linger too long, breaking the film’s otherwise subtle rhythm.
Symbolism is woven throughout, with the titular cake representing forbidden desires and the hope for a sweeter life. Themes like loneliness, societal judgement, and personal freedom are handled thoughtfully, though the messaging occasionally feels heavy-handed.
The music is understated but effective, underscoring emotional moments without overpowering them. At times, the silence speaks even louder, emphasising the unspoken emotions and struggles that define Mahin’s world.
Moments of humour, like a joyous dance scene, provide relief from the heavier themes. These light-hearted touches remind us of life’s fleeting joys, even amidst its challenges.
Though predictable at times, the story’s conclusion feels fitting, if slightly unresolved. Some may wish for more closure, but the ambiguity leaves room for reflection.
My Favourite Cake is a heartfelt, thought-provoking exploration of love and ageing in a complex society. While its pace and cultural specificity may not appeal to everyone, those willing to immerse themselves will find it deeply rewarding. For fans of character-driven dramas, this is a film worth savouring.