Hatamikia seems to have an equal number of fans and fierce critics. His films are often controversial and arouse heated discussions among cinema goers. However, most people agree that he is a capable director, well versed with the ABC of film making.
Davat (Invitation) is his first "non-war related" movie. It is five stories all about abortion. In form, but not content, it is strangely reminiscent of Kieslowski's Decalog. There is a female gynecologist (Katayoon Riahi) who appears in all episodes and is the centerpiece of one of them. The weakest segment has Mohamad Reza Forootan playing against type while the final two segments, featuring Riahi and Marila Zarei are the strongest pieces.
Invitation could be seen as an anti-abortion, pro-life film by some. Whatever its intentions, as a film it is well made, well acted, entertaining and, to a moderate extent, thought provoking.
