Based on Satrapi's graphic novel about her life is pre and post- revolutionary Iran and then in Europe. The film traces growth from child rebellious, punk- loving teenager in Iran. In the background are growing tensions of the political climate in Iran in the 70's and 80's, with members of her liberal- leaning family detained and then executed, and the background of the disastrous Iran/Iraq war.
Loretta, despite her alcoholism and subservience to Iggy, a gang boss, is sympathetic towards Max because of his low station in life. At first, she is only concerned with keeping herself safe first from Iggy's anger and then from Kenny Kane, Max's father, who is violent and bad-tempered. When Loretta discovers that Kenny is keeping Max tied up, she tries to help him escape:
"Keeping your own kid tied up, it ain't right. He ain't the man I thought I remembered, that's for sure."
Loretta thought that she remembered Kenny being a better man, but is shocked out of her obedience by this cruel act. She still has some humanity, despite the abuse she suffers from Iggy and Kenny, and so she tries to redeem herself in a small way by helping Max. Her actions are selfless and she almost dies for standing up to Kenny.
The answer to your question is,
Andropause. It's a decline in testosterone.
-Mabel <3
