Persepolis (12A)

Marjane Satrapi's testament of her youth in Tehran is a surprise on two counts: one, it's framed in a stark black-and-white animation; two, it's funny, in spite of the grim subject matter. Adapted from her acclaimed graphic novels, the film plots Iran's traumatic historical course from the corruption of the Shah through the faint hopes of revolution to the religious fundamentalism that reigns today.

Raised by liberal parents, the young Marjane (voiced by Chiara Mastroianni) proves too feisty and outspoken for this autocratic regime, and is packed off to be educated in Vienna. Her eventual return to Tehran pitches her once more in to the black comedy of state repression, where make-up, alcohol and public flirting can land a woman in deep trouble.

The tone is defiant, however, and deeply affectionate in recalling Satrapi's bond with her parents and her wise grandmother. It's also searingly honest about her own youthful mistakes. Persepolis would make a terrific double bill with Ten, Kiarostami's formally audacious but no less heartfelt love letter to female independence in Iran.

Watch a trailer for 'Persepolis'