Films/DVD Asylum

Posted by tinear (A) on August 15, 2006 at 10:14:09

Turkey.
A successful photographer in Istambul undergoing the usual single-male mid-life crisis receives a house guest, somewhat unenthusiastically, from his small village.
His cousin makes himself quite at home but realizes the bright lights aren't quite what he expected. Meanwhile, the time is ticking on his somewhat lukewarm reception.
Much has been written about how beautifully framed this film is, how Istambul is so magnificent. All true: but the beauty of this film is its patient quietness and, like in another film I recently wrote of, Noi, what the director chooses to omit.
Young man vs. old man. Village character vs. city.
What are one's responsibilities to family?
I don't wish to get into politics but it is impossible to realize how traditional Muslim society has been turned on its head in this film.
Witness, as an example, the expectations of the young man, regarding young women, and how they so subtly are altered.
This really is a terrific film not to be missed. It deservedly won Cannes top prize.