Hooshang Shamaei
Actor
About Hooshang Shamaei
Hooshang Shamaei was an Iranian man who gained cinematic recognition through his participation in Abbas Kiarostami's groundbreaking 1990 film 'Close-Up.' He was not a professional actor but rather a real-life participant in the events depicted in the film, which blurs the line between documentary and fiction. Shamaei was part of the Ahankhah family who were deceived by Hossein Sabzian, a man impersonating famous Iranian director Mohsen Makhmalbaf. His appearance in the film was authentic, as he and other family members played themselves, recounting the actual incident that occurred when Sabzian convinced them he was making a film with their family. This single cinematic appearance marked his entire film career, making him an accidental figure in Iranian New Wave cinema. His natural, unscripted performance contributed significantly to the film's unique documentary-style authenticity and emotional depth.
The Craft
On Screen
Naturalistic, authentic, untrained performance style typical of non-professional actors in Iranian New Wave cinema
Milestones
- Appeared as himself in Abbas Kiarostami's 'Close-Up' (1990)
- Participated in one of the most influential Iranian films of the 20th century
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Hooshang Shamaei's participation in 'Close-Up' contributed to the film's revolutionary approach to cinematic truth and authenticity. The film became a landmark in Iranian cinema and influenced documentary filmmakers worldwide, demonstrating how real people playing themselves could create more powerful drama than traditional acting. His authentic presence helped establish a new paradigm for hybrid documentary-fiction filmmaking that continues to influence contemporary cinema.
Lasting Legacy
Shamaei's legacy is tied to his contribution to one of the most important films in Iranian cinema history. While not a career actor, his genuine performance in 'Close-Up' exemplifies the Iranian New Wave's emphasis on realism and authenticity. The film's critical acclaim and lasting influence on world cinema means his brief appearance has had disproportionate cultural significance.
Who They Inspired
As a non-professional actor, Shamaei influenced the approach to casting in documentary-style films, demonstrating how authentic performances from real people could enhance cinematic truth. His work in 'Close-Up' has been studied in film schools as an example of effective non-professional acting and the power of documentary realism.
Off Screen
Hooshang Shamaei was a member of the Ahankhah family involved in the real-life incident that inspired 'Close-Up.' He lived a private life outside of his brief cinematic appearance, and details about his personal circumstances remain largely undocumented.
Did You Know?
- Close-Up was his only film appearance
- He played himself in the film, recreating real events
- The film was shot shortly after the actual incident occurred
- Director Abbas Kiarostami convinced all real participants to appear as themselves
- The film premiered at Cannes Directors' Fortnight in 1990
- His family was deceived by a man claiming to be famous director Mohsen Makhmalbaf
- The incident involved the impostor convincing the family to invest in a non-existent film project
- Close-Up is considered one of the greatest films of all time by many critics
- The film's unique blend of documentary and fiction was revolutionary for its time
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Hooshang Shamaei?
Hooshang Shamaei was an Iranian man who appeared as himself in Abbas Kiarostami's acclaimed 1990 film 'Close-Up.' He was not a professional actor but a real participant in the events depicted in the film, which was based on a true story about a man impersonating a famous director.
What films is Hooshang Shamaei best known for?
Hooshang Shamaei is known exclusively for his appearance in 'Close-Up' (1990), which was his only film credit. This single appearance in what became a landmark of Iranian cinema has made him a notable figure in film history despite his brief career.
When was Hooshang Shamaei born and when did he die?
Specific birth and death dates for Hooshang Shamaei are not publicly documented. He was an Iranian citizen who gained brief fame through his participation in the 1990 film 'Close-Up,' but details about his personal life remain private.
What awards did Hooshang Shamaei win?
Hooshang Shamaei did not receive any personal acting awards or nominations, as he was a non-professional participant rather than a career actor. However, the film 'Close-Up' received numerous international accolades and critical acclaim.
What was Hooshang Shamaei's acting style?
Shamaei's acting style was completely naturalistic and authentic, as he was essentially being himself rather than playing a character. His untrained, genuine performance exemplified the Iranian New Wave cinema's emphasis on realism and documentary truth over theatrical acting.
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Films
1 film
