Alex Eskandarkhah is a director who has a clear emphasis on emotional authenticity and visual subtlety. In ‘Cycles‘, he demonstrates a refined command of pacing and atmosphere, skillfully balancing restraint with depth to create a narrative that unfolds with power. Eskandarkhah’s direction reveals a filmmaker who trusts the material and the performances, allowing the story’s emotional core to emerge naturally without unnecessary embellishment.
Throughout Cycles, Eskandarkhah employs a deliberate rhythmic structure, beginning with sharp, dynamic cuts that establish a sense of urgency before gradually shifting into slower, more intimate moments. His use of the laundromat setting is particularly effective, transforming an otherwise mundane space into a carefully constructed environment that reflects the characters’ vulnerability and tentative connection. This thoughtful attention to tone and setting highlights his ability to craft mood through visual and temporal control.
Eskandarkhah’s greatest strength lies in his sensitivity to performance, guiding his actors to deliver authentic, understated portrayals that avoid melodrama. His direction is marked by an economy of gestures, emphasizing subtle human interactions that resonate deeply. With ‘Cycles’, Alex Eskandarkhah confirms his status as a confident filmmaker with a distinctive voice and an impressive level of craftsmanship.
