Nightcrawler

Synopsis

"Nightcrawler" (شبگرد), a 1975 Iranian film starring Reza Beyk Imanverdi, is a compelling drama that delves into the murky world of crime and human psychology in Tehran. The film follows the story of a gritty and determined man who navigates the complexities of urban life, confronting moral dilemmas and dark societal undercurrents. With atmospheric storytelling and vivid portrayals of 1970s Iranian society, "Nightcrawler" explores themes of desperation, ambition, and the pursuit of survival in a turbulent environment. The movie is notable for its intense performances and its raw depiction of the socio-political tensions of its time.

Cast

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  Reza Beyk Imanverdi

• 

  Shoorangiz Tabatabai

• 

  Shahram Saminipoor

• Mirzadeh

• 

  Mohammad Vali Ahmadloo

• Manouchehr Hamedi

Reviews

Critical reception for "Nightcrawler" (1975) has been largely positive among classic Iranian cinema enthusiasts and scholars, despite limited mainstream international recognition. The film is praised for Reza Beyk Imanverdi's compelling lead performance, capturing the complexity of his character with nuance and intensity. Critics from film archives such as the Iranian National Film Organization highlight the movie's atmospheric direction and strong narrative structure that evoke the era's socio-political reality. On IMDb, while not widely rated, the film holds appreciation from users for its gripping storyline and historical significance, though some note the pacing may feel slower compared to contemporary films. Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic do not have aggregated scores due to the movie's age and limited international distribution, but specialty reviewers and film historians regard "Nightcrawler" as a significant work in Iranian cinema history. The film's raw and unfiltered portrayal is often lauded, with many describing it as a courageous reflection of its time.