In The Middle: An Exploration of Embodied Movements and Urban Spaces in Tehran and London Through Film / Saba Khatami (2024)

This thesis explores the relationship between the body, urban space, and cultural identity through the embodied experiences of moving through Tehran and London. Using dance film as both a method and product, the research examines how the socio-political landscapes of these cities shape bodily movement and expression. In Tehran, restrictive regulations make public movement an act of resistance, while London offers more freedom but induces a sense of disconnection and alienation. Grounded in Practice as Research (PaR) and autoethnography, the study uses journaling, video logs, and authentic movement to document personal, embodied responses. The analysis draws on Henri Lefebvre’s concept of space production and Michel Foucault’s theories of power and surveillance to explore how urban spaces shape embodied identities. By juxtaposing Tehran and London in the film, the thesis reveals how the body navigates between restriction and freedom, visibility and invisibility. The use of dance film allows for a nuanced exploration of movement in socio-political landscapes, offering deeper insights into the intersections of space, culture, and identity.