As someone who loves watching films, this one triggered an odd urge to write. After seeing the trailer I went during finals week without even listening to the soundtrack first. I already like Mahsun Kırmızıgül’s cinema, but here he is in full “go on then, who can stop you” mode. Without spoilers, the broad strokes: it follows an Aegean teacher who, in the 1960s, is effectively banished to a remote corner of Anatolia. The lives of the local people, the hardships of those years, and the feeling of exile are blended with real care. My character without a doubt is disabled Aziz. Story-wise I would give it about 8.2/10, craft and technique 8.5/10, and performances 9/10: a strong Turkish work. I am sharing what I think is the film’s most meaningful frame below. My advice is to go see it. I am sure you will like it; even if you don’t, you still bought a ticket for Turkish cinema. Is that so bad?
