Leila Hatami or Audrey Hepburn? The Last Innocent of Cinema

1. “The Old Man” (Director: Rasoul Sadr Ameli)

In “The Old Man,” Hatami plays a lonely woman seeking male support. Her performance masterfully showcases her ability to balance charm with fragility. Her portrayal emphasizes feminine seduction intertwined with innocence, reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn’s elegance in films like “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.”

2. “Leila” (Directed by Dariush Mehrjui)

This film is perhaps her most iconic role, where she embodies a barren and fragile woman sacrificing everything for love. Her portrayal is imbued with suffering, despair, and vulnerability, akin to Hepburn’s role in “Unbridled.”

3. “Season Salad” (Directed by Freydoun Jairani)

Here, Hatami plays a rebellious and free-spirited girl, showcasing her versatility. Her boldness on screen contrasts with her traditional roles, exemplifying courage and independence—a departure from her typical innocent archetype.

4. “Moneyless” (Directed by Hamid Nematollah)

In this social commentary, Hatami portrays a naïve and light-hearted woman caught in social circumstances. Her ability to blend innocence with psychological complexity evokes Audrey Hepburn’s Sabrina, inspiring romantic and social themes.

5. “I” (Directed by Soheil Bayraghi)

In this psychological thriller, Hatami plays a mysterious woman with secrets, demonstrating her capacity to embed depth even within criminal roles. Her portrayal underscores multidimensional character development.

August 21, 2025 | 9:56 am