Chloe Zhao’s THE RIDER’s naturalistic synthesis of documentary and narrative has some roots in Abbas Kiarostami’s 1990 Iranian classic CLOSE-UP, but with a very different story to tell, about a very different part of the world. After discussing what made The Rider one of our favorite films of the year so far, we look at how these two films both dance on the line separating fact and fiction, through their use of non-actors, their respective sense of place, and their preoccupation with identity. Plus, Your Next Picture Show, where we share recent filmgoing experiences in hopes of putting something new on your cinematic radar.

Please share your comments, thoughts, and questions about CLOSE-UP, THE RIDER, or both by sending an email to [email protected], or leaving a short voicemail at (773) 234-9730.

Your Next Picture Show: 

• Genevieve: Kay Cannon’s BLOCKERS

• Scott: Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead’s THE ENDLESS

• Keith: Francois Truffaut’s TWO ENGLISH GIRLS and MISSISSIPPI MERMAID

Outro Music: Woody Guthrie, “Gamblin’ Man”

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