
Universal Language
dir. Matthew Rankin
78
8 sourcesSynopsis
Winter. Somewhere between Tehran and Winnipeg. Negin and Nazgol find a sum of money frozen deep within the sidewalk ice and try to find a way to get it out. Massoud leads a group of befuddled tourists upon an increasingly-strange walking tour of Winnipeg historic sites. Matthew leaves his job at the Québec government and embarks upon a mysterious journey to visit his estranged mother.
Critics consensus
Bridging two nations with a clever and surreal conceit, Universal Language is a culture clash comedy brimming with wisdom.
What resonated with audiences
'Universal Language' is a delightfully quirky indie gem that captivates with its surreal, dreamlike qualities and absurdist humor reminiscent of Monty Python. The film charms audiences through its exploration of memory, human connection, and universal compassion, set in an alternate Canada where Farsi is the primary language. While most praise its originality, beautiful cinematography, and thought-provoking themes, some found the narrative lacking substance. Overall, it's a warm, unique fairy tale that rewards viewers seeking something genuinely different.

Directed byMatthew Rankin
StarringRojina Esmaeili, Saba Vahedyousefi, Matthew Rankin, Pirouz Nemati, Mani Soleymanlou, Ila Firouzabadi
Written byMatthew Rankin
CinematographyIsabelle Stachtchenko
EditingXi Feng
MusicAmir Amiri
Universal Language
2024 · NR · 1h 29m
Comedy, Drama
Winter. Somewhere between Tehran and Winnipeg. Negin and Nazgol find a sum of money frozen deep within the sidewalk ice and try to find a way to get it out. Massoud leads a group of befuddled tourists upon an increasingly-strange walking tour of Winnipeg historic sites. Matthew leaves his job at the Québec government and embarks upon a mysterious journey to visit his estranged mother.
