At the Intersection of Cinema and Architecture: An Exploration of How Architectural Space Transforms into a Subject of Social Resistance in the Film Leila’s Brothers
At the Intersection of Cinema and Architecture: An Exploration of How Architectural Space Transforms into a Subject of Social Resistance in the Film Leila’s Brothers

Summary/Abstract: The use of space holds a distinctive place in cinematic narrative, as spaces created primarily in adherence to the story are also intertwined with the ideological situation within the narrative. Transforming a place into a space is possible through communication established with that place and even a location initially planned as structural boundaries becomes a space through interaction with human. In cinema, space is a distinctive area where the story lays out and the narrative is directly shared with the audience. Thus, the style of space within the context of the story also finds its place in the cinematic narrative. The relationship between cinema and architectural space design signifies the combination of visual, auditory, and spatial elements within the artistic values of cinema, conveying a specific atmosphere, emotion, or meaning on the aesthetic plane to the audience. The correlation between architectural space design and cinematic narrative allows filmmakers to shape narratives and evoke emotions by strategically selecting specific environments. Directors use architecture to reflect their personal perspectives, deepen the character development, and explore themes, enhancing audience understanding and immersion in the cinematic experience. Architectural design of spaces also advances the flow of the story and lead the character development while managing conflicts of the story. When architectural design of the film is conceptualized as a cinematic space, it can be reconceptualized in alignment with the narrative of the film. Films can redesign existing architectural spaces in line with the requirements of the story. Thus, when considered as an integral part of the story, where the story takes place evolves into a cinematic space. The film Leila’s Brothers (2022), directed by the Iranian director Saeed Roustayi, serves as a symbolic example of the strong structure of cinema by attempting to convey conflicts to the audience in ideological, cultural, and societal terms. It also emphasizes the significant role of architecturally designed cinematic spaces in carrying these nuances. In this context, the study attempts to discuss the film Leila’s Brothers within the framework of spatial theory, providing a comprehensive perspective that goes beyond the physical environment to understand social relationships, power dynamics, and cultural structures. Space stands not only as a physical area but also as a social, cultural, and political phenomenon. This research aims to explore the transformation of architectural space design into cinematic space within the context of a film, aiming to reflect the thematic essence of the narrative. The analysis will be conducted by examining ideological spatial elements of the film, within the framework of Iran’s societal dynamics.

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