Graphic novelist embraces dark side of animation

The 2007 film Persepolis reminds us that animated features need not be comedies for kids or fairy tales with familiar messages.

Nor need they be in English, in color or elaborately drawn on computers.

The feature, named for the ancient capital of Iran, is the coming-of-age autobiography of its creator, Marjane Satrapi, who chronicled her Iranian childhood in a graphic novel. She and French animator Vincent Paronaud adapted it into a feature, retaining its simple style.

The film, an Oscar nominee for best animated feature, is the next entry in the Ohio Wesleyan University Community Film Series at the Strand Theatre in Delaware.

The narrative recalls the excitement of Satrapi's family when the shah was overthrown in 1979, then the confusion of a restless young girl when Islamic fundamentalists took control and dictated that women cover their heads. The rock 'n' roll that excited young Marjane was driven into the black market.

As she matures, Marjane lives in Vienna, Austria, where she encounters the joys and pains of budding love, and longs to be reunited with her family.

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