Abbas Kiarostami: 'I would be too selfish if I said everyone should see my movies more than once. To say that would mean I'm just marketing my work!'

I would be too selfish if I said everyone should see my movies more than once. To say that would mean I'm just marketing my work!

Abbas Kiarostami, a renowned Iranian filmmaker, once stated, "I would be too selfish if I said everyone should see my movies more than once. To say that would mean I'm just marketing my work!" This quote holds a deep meaning that goes beyond a simple marketing tactic. Kiarostami's words reflect his humility as an artist and his desire for his films to be experienced on a personal level, rather than purely for commercial gain.In a straightforward understanding, Kiarostami implies that he does not wish to impose a repetitive viewing experience on his audience. He acknowledges that watching a movie multiple times is a personal choice, and by encouraging such repetition, one might perceive his intention as a promotional strategy. Instead, Kiarostami emphasizes the importance of allowing viewers to form their own interpretations and engage with his films in unique ways.However, delving deeper into the realm of philosophy, Kiarostami's quote reveals a significant concept: the allure of multiplicity. By suggesting that watching his movies multiple times may be "selfish," he opens up a philosophical discussion on the nature of perception, subjectivity, and the ever-changing human experience.In a world where we often seek definitive answers, Kiarostami's perspective challenges us to embrace the idea that our understanding of a film or any form of art evolves with each encounter. It reminds us that our emotions, perspectives, and life circumstances greatly influence how we interpret the messages conveyed on the screen. Each subsequent viewing grants us a chance to discover new layers of meaning and engage in a continuous dialogue with the artwork.The concept of multiplicity extends beyond films and can be applied to various aspects of our lives. It reminds us that our understanding of any experience, be it a book, a painting, or even a simple conversation, is subjective and can transform over time. Embracing this concept allows us to appreciate the ebb and flow of life and embrace the intricate tapestry of perspectives that surround us.Comparing Kiarostami's perspective with conventional marketing strategies reveals a stark contrast. While marketing often aims to maximize profitability by encouraging repeated consumption of products or entertainment, Kiarostami's approach emphasizes the value of personal growth and discovery through repeated engagement with his films. He invites viewers to explore the uncharted territories of their own minds, challenging them to look beyond surface-level interpretations.Kiarostami's quote invites us to question the nature of our own experiences and the potential depth we may be missing through a singular encounter with any form of art. It encourages us to reflect on the moments when we may have dismissed something after only a cursory glance, failing to realize the untapped potential beneath the surface.In this era of instant gratification and quick consumption, Kiarostami's perspective reminds us to embrace the beauty and complexity that lies within the repetition. Rather than merely seeking immediate satisfaction, we are encouraged to perceive each encounter with a film or any artwork as an opportunity for introspection and growth.In conclusion, Abbas Kiarostami's quote holds a profound significance beyond the realm of marketing. It challenges us to reject the notion of art as a one-dimensional commodity and encourages us to engage with films and other forms of artistic expression on a deeper, more personal level. By emphasizing the value of multiple viewings, Kiarostami promotes self-reflection, the exploration of subjectivity, and the possibility of discovering new layers of meaning each time we encounter his works. His philosophy serves as a reminder that our experiences are ever evolving, and through embracing multiplicity, we open ourselves up to the infinite possibilities that art offers.