Ararat (2002)

In the heart of Toronto, acclaimed filmmaker Edward Sorayan embarks on a challenging endeavor - crafting a film that confronts the controversial 1915 Armenian genocide, a historical event still vehemently denied by the Turkish government. Sorayan's audacious film project pulls its narrative threads from real life events and people, including the life of the famed Armenian painter, Arshile Gorky. Late in development, the filmmakers engage an art historian, Ani, a woman deeply versed in Gorky's life and work, to ensure authenticity. Yet Ani's personal life is far from serene, as she grapples with accusations from her stepdaughter Celia. Celia holds Ani responsible for the death of her father, Ani's second husband, and is not afraid to voice her beliefs in public outbursts. This familial tension is further stoked as Ani's son, Raffi, is drawn into a romantic relationship with the accusatory Celia. As Sorayan's film takes shape, bringing the tragic tale of the Armenian genocide to life, Raffi embarks on his own journey of discovery. He travels to the former Armenia, now Turkey, in search of truths about his family's past, and also to unravel the enigmatic threads of his cultural heritage. Upon his return, Raffi faces unexpected trouble at customs, leading to an intense interaction with customs agent David. With canisters of film in tow and a story to tell, Raffi opens up to David, who holds an unexpected connection to the film project. "Ararat" weaves together these distinct narratives, linking a diverse cast of characters through shared experiences of love, loss, and the relentless pursuit of truth. This tapestry of tales explores the power of storytelling, the fragility of truth, and the enduring impact of historical events on personal lives, all against the backdrop of a film within a film.

Ararat is a drama movie featuring Christopher Plummer and directed by Atom Egoyan.

Ararat is currently streaming on CBS.

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