Universal Language

In a surreal interzone between Tehran (Iran) & Winnipeg (Canada), the lives of eccentric characters intertwine.

UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE is a brilliant kaleidoscope of encounters.

Two schoolgirls, Negin and Nazgol, discover money frozen in the ice, while Massoud guides confused tourists through Winnipeg's offbeat architectural wonders. Meanwhile, Matthew quits his job in Québec and embarks on a cryptic journey to find his mother.. or maybe himself. 

Directed by Matthew Rankin.

"The best movie at Cannes this year is an oddball Canadian comedy. Universal Language is a magnificent film." NEW YORK VULTURE

"Matthew Rankin channels the best of Iranian Cinema in absurdist Canadian comedy... Backdrops that recall the locations in Jacques Tati’s ‘Playtime... And yet, if Rankin counts Abbas Kiarostami among his influences, this project proves he’s ready for his “Close-Up"”. VARIETY

"One of the most exciting directors working today, with his unique visual style and penchant for challenging narrative conventions indicating a bright future as a filmmaker… A tremendously captivating comedy." INTERNATIONAL CINEPHILE SOCIETY

"A beguiling, surrealist ode to Persian cinema… Diorama-like compositions that will call to mind both Wes and Roy Anders(s)on... The world of Universal Language feels lived-in, and those lives feel consequential. It’s like nothing I’ve seen in Cannes this year." THE FILM STAGE   

"Rankin uses 'Universal Language' to conduct a dialogue with Iranian cinema, utilizing hallmarks of its New Wave master." REVERSE SHOT

"A magnificent film, one that feels warm and familiar even as we realize just how startlingly original it is." VULTURE

"The movie’s charm lies in its odd yet committed execution, offering a unique perspective on cultural connection and distance." ASSOCIATED PRESS

"If cinema is a universal language, it’s never been more elastically employed than in this Matthew Rankin film." SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE

"Universal Language’ is delightfully absurdist, with little moments in each story that both make sense yet defy expectations. As disorienting as it is delightful." ROGER EBERT

"Deeply weird, delightfully strange, inspiringly imaginative and genuinely heartfelt." PASTE MAGAZINE