yusufpiskin Reviews (1,122)

I'm Not Scared (2003)

The Anatomy of Fear: A Review of Io non ho paura

[9/10 · 11 April 2024]

"Io non ho paura" (I'm Not Scared) - how much can these words frighten a person? What is fear really? Do we need ghosts, vampires, or werewolves to scare us in horror movies and books? Can reality itself be more terrifying than fiction? These are questions that the horror genre has been pondering for years, turning them into somewhat of a cliché.

Set in Italy in 1978, the film tells the chilling true story of a child kidnapped from Milan. The film's perspective is conveyed through the eyes of an innocent child, which is why director Gabriele Salvatores instructed cinematographer Italo Petriccione to shoot most of the film from a child's height. This further intensifies the disturbing atmosphere created by the film.

The real question is this: Is it the terrifying events that happen to this child that are more frightening, the cramped space he is confined to, or the fact that the film's opening shows us that the world of children is not at all innocent? Is it the fact that people try to cover up the evil that exists within them with excuses like "lack of money" and "poverty"?

In addition to the visual success of Gabriele Salvatores and Italo Petriccione, we must not forget screenwriter Francesca Marciano and the duo of Ezio Bosso and Pepo Scherman, whose haunting music gives the film its soul. This film is a true example of teamwork.

In order to tell this story of the "Years of Lead" through the eyes of children, the cast was selected from over 600 children. They are one of the film's greatest treasures, especially the performance of Giuseppe Cristiano.

Nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the 76th Academy Awards, the film was praised by many important film magazines and writers, but for some reason it has always remained "underrated".

Io non ho paura is not just a horror film, but also a work of art that delves into the dark recesses of the human soul, exploring the loss of innocence and the pangs of growing up. The film's gloomy atmosphere and visual aesthetics keep the viewer hooked until the very end, providing an unforgettable experience.

Swamp Thing (1982)

Wes

[6/10 · 9 April 2024]

Wes Craven shows off his genius once again in the 1982 film Swamp Thing. The movie is based on the DC Comics character of the same name and is considered one of Craven's first big-budget films.

The movie tells the story of a scientist named Alec Holland who transforms into a mysterious creature in the swamp. After being poisoned in the swamp during an assassination attempt, Holland's body parts combine with nature to create a new being known as "Swamp Thing." This new entity fights to protect the swamp and its inhabitants.

Beyond being a typical horror movie, Swamp Thing offers a profound perspective on the relationship between nature and humanity. Craven skillfully uses the film's visual effects to draw the viewer into the mysterious and eerie atmosphere of the swamp.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is the depth of its characters. Swamp Thing is not just a monster, but also a being who experiences emotions like love, loss, and revenge. The film draws the viewer into this emotional turmoil, allowing them to empathize with Swamp Thing.

Swamp Thing is considered one of Wes Craven's most important films and continues to impress viewers despite its age. The film offers a thought-provoking experience by exploring themes like respect for nature and the dark side of humanity, alongside horror and suspense.

The Last Ashes (2023)

Perfect

[8/10 · 4 April 2024]

The film is set in 1854 and tells the story of Hélène (Nosbusch), a woman who returns to her hometown after a long absence to seek revenge on the man who killed her father.

The film is a slow-burning revenge tale that is more interested in character development and atmosphere than in action. The first half of the film is spent establishing the characters and the setting, and it does so in a very deliberate and methodical way. The film's director, Loïc Tanson, uses long takes and slow zooms to create a sense of unease and tension. The cinematography is also stunning, with many beautiful shots of the Luxembourgish countryside.

The second half of the film is where the action picks up, and it does not disappoint. The film's violence is brutal and unflinching, but it never feels gratuitous. The film is also quite suspenseful, and I found myself on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next.

The performances in the film are all top-notch. Jules Werner is excellent as the villain, and Désirée Nosbusch is equally good as the hero. The supporting cast is also very good, with everyone giving believable and nuanced performances.

Overall, Läif a Séil is a well-made and suspenseful Western that is sure to please fans of the genre. The film is beautifully shot, well-acted, and features a compelling story. I highly recommend it.

If you're a fan of Westerns, I highly recommend Läif a Séil. It's a well-made and suspenseful film that is sure to please.

Othello (1965)

Oliver...

[9/10 · 3 April 2024]

As a theater enthusiast with a keen eye for masterful performances, I recently watched the 1965 film adaptation of Othello, directed and starring Laurence Olivier. Having seen numerous interpretations of Shakespeare's iconic tragedy, I was eager to understand why Olivier's name is so revered in the theatrical, Shakespearean, and academic worlds.

While the entire cast delivers captivating performances, with Joyce Redman as Emilia, Maggie Smith as Desdemona, and Frank Finlay as Lago, it is Olivier's portrayal of Othello that truly steals the show. Despite the contemporary criticism of his use of blackface, Olivier's performance is nothing short of mesmerizing, commanding the stage with a towering presence.

This adaptation is widely considered by many authorities to be the most faithful to Shakespeare's original text. The nearly three-hour runtime, true to the weight of the play, can be emotionally draining, but in the best possible way. Shakespeare's works are renowned for their ability to evoke profound emotions and thought-provoking contemplation, and this film adaptation is no exception.

Although it bears the National Theatre label, the film is actually a cinematic adaptation of the play staged at the Royal National Theatre between 1964 and 1966. Notably, instead of creating new sets for the film, enlarged replicas of the original stage sets were used. By 1965, Olivier's previous financial backers were no longer alive, making it challenging to secure substantial funding for a full-fledged film production. Olivier had initially wanted to adapt Macbeth for the big screen, but his primary financial supporter, Alexander Korda, had passed away the previous year.

Currently, I am engrossed in watching a series of National Theatre productions, and this particular film has further fueled my enthusiasm for exploring their repertoire...

Olivier's masterful direction, evident in his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to extract nuanced performances from his cast.

The film's striking visuals, which capture the essence of the theatrical production while also utilizing the cinematic medium to great effect.

The film's faithfulness to Shakespeare's text, which allows the playwright's words to take center stage and resonate with the audience.

Overall, I highly recommend this film adaptation of Othello to anyone who appreciates Shakespeare, theater, or simply excellent storytelling. It is a powerful and unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.

National Theatre Live: The Seagull (2022)

Emilia Clarke

[6/10 · 30 March 2024]

Jamie Lloyd, the director who helmed the acclaimed 2019 production of Cyrano De Bergerac with James McAvoy, brings a fresh perspective to Chekhov's classic The Seagull, with the assistance of Anya Reiss.

When the play's trailer first hit social media, Emilia Clarke's performance generated a lot of buzz. However, when the play opened, audiences and critics were divided. Some praised Clarke's performance, while others slammed it.

My personal opinion is that the adaptation, the performances of all the actors, and the set design were all mediocre. Especially when you consider the success of Cyrano De Bergerac.

Here are a few more things I'd like to add;

Emilia Clarke's performance was the best part of the play for me. It was clear that she had worked hard on her role, and she had a very natural stage presence.

The adaptation felt a bit too modern in some places. It didn't quite capture the spirit of Chekhov's original text.

The set design was very minimalist. I would have liked to see a bit more visual flair and atmosphere in some scenes.

Overall, I thought this was a mediocre production. It didn't live up to the success of Cyrano De Bergerac, and it didn't fully satisfy me.

Additionally:

Some scenes in the play were a bit too long and slow-paced.

The ending of the play felt a bit unresolved.

Falcon Lake (2022)

Le Bon

[8/10 · 23 March 2024]

I just finished watching the 2022 film Falcon Lake. I didn't know until I entered the data on IMDb that it was actually adapted from Bastien Vivès' semi-autobiographical graphic novel Une sour.

The atmosphere of the film already hinted at this, and learning this made everything fall into place. First of all, Falcon Lake is a film with so many subtexts that we can't call it an ordinary coming-of-age drama. While it has a narrative from the French school, it doesn't get too caught up in art-house storytelling and also appeals to the general audience.

Canadian director Charlotte Le Bon got on my radar with this film, but the real highlight of the film is French child actor Joseph Engel, who won the Canadian Screen Award for Best Lead Performance in a Film for his role. Engel carries the whole film and proves his talent to the audience in every frame he appears in.

Overall, Falcon Lake is a well-made film with a strong performance by Joseph Engel. It's a coming-of-age story with a lot to offer, and it's sure to stay with you long after you watch it.

Road House (2024)

Not Good... But Nod so bad...

[3/10 · 21 March 2024]

As a cult fan of the 1989 film "Road House," I approached the 2024 version with caution. While I trusted names like Doug Liman and Jake Gyllenhaal, I had a feeling inside that "this movie is going to be terrible." Fortunately, it wasn't that bad. It's not a perfect movie, but it's not terrible either.

After all, we live in a different era. Music culture has changed, bar culture has changed, and Dalton had to adapt to this change. The trailer for the film also clearly conveyed the message "I'm not a copy of the old movie, I'm an updated adaptation." From this point of view, the film delivers on what it promises.

So, will I watch this movie again? No. I'm listening to the soundtrack album of the 1989 version as I write this review of the film. I also see the Blu-ray on the shelf, maybe I'll watch that tonight. This is the biggest problem with new movies (and this movie of course): Viewers don't own movies like this anymore. That's why they're not made like this anymore. As I said, we live in a different era.

Coming to the 2024 version, I can say that Jake Gyllenhaal did a pretty good job as Dalton. He brought his own interpretation to the character and it gave the character a new breath. The action scenes in the movie are also quite successful. The final fight scene is especially exciting.

However, the film also has some shortcomings. The story is a bit weak and some of the characters are not deep enough. The film's music is also not as impressive as the 1989 version.

Overall, the 2024 film "Road House" is a film that will be overshadowed by the 1989 version. However, it is not a bad option for those who want to watch a fun and action-packed movie.

The Last Year of Darkness (2023)

MUBi

[8/10 · 20 March 2024]

The 2023 documentary "The Last Year of Darkness" directed by Benjamin Mullinkosson, explores the lives of LGBTQ+ youth in Chengdu, China, and the city's evolving nightlife scene. This courageous film tells the story of a group of young people who freely express their identities and find solace in the anonymity of the night, despite living in a society with a largely negative attitude towards LGBTQ+ individuals. A story of resistance and the quest for freedom, the film leaves a lasting impression on its viewers.

The film's soundtrack features a mix of tracks from Chengdu's underground music scene and original compositions. The locations are primarily bars, clubs, and streets at the heart of the city's nightlife. The use of sound and visuals effectively conveys the film's atmosphere and the characters' emotions.

"The Last Year of Darkness" is a must-watch for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ identity and nightlife. With its courageous content, captivating cinematography, and sincere storytelling, the film is bound to leave a lasting impression on its viewers. We also recommend the film to those who want to learn about China's attitude towards LGBTQ+ individuals, fans of courageous and original films, and viewers seeking a compelling documentary experience.

Sawdust Tales (1997)

A Cinematic Journey into the Depths of Human Existence

[8/10 · 11 March 2024]

Based on Bilge Karasu's novel of the same name, "Sawdust Tales" is a 1997 Turkish film directed by Baris Pirhasan. The film delves into complex themes such as identity, mortality, and the nature of art through an existential lens, offering a captivating exploration of the circus world and its inhabitants.

The film's visual aesthetics immerse the viewer in the magical and mysterious atmosphere of the circus. Pirhasan skillfully uses the camera to convey the excitement and danger of acrobatic performances. Karasu's adaptation stays true to the novel, providing a profound examination of the characters' inner worlds and emotional turmoil.

The cast delivers compelling performances. The young acrobat successfully portrays the character's transformation and growth. Supporting characters add depth and complexity to the story, particularly the master-apprentice relationship, which plays a crucial role in exploring existential themes.

"Sawdust Tales" is laden with symbols and metaphors that invite careful attention. The circus represents the cycle of life; acrobatic performances symbolize the fragility and danger of human existence; and sawdust stands for the past and memories. These symbols enrich the film's central themes, offering multiple layers of interpretation for the viewer.

The film presents a thought-provoking experience for viewers open to existential questions and philosophical contemplation. By addressing universal themes like identity, death, and art, it transcends time and space, appealing to a global audience.

"Sawdust Tales" is a powerful and unforgettable film that leaves a lasting impression on the viewer. With its striking visuals, engaging performances, and profound themes, it stands as a significant work of existential cinema, urging viewers to reflect on the meaning and purpose of human existence.

Some key aspects of the film to consider:

Master-apprentice relationship: The master demands that the apprentice focus solely on their performance on the rope, suppressing their thoughts and emotions. This can be interpreted as a commentary on free will and individuality.

Symbolism of the circus: The circus can be seen as a metaphor for life. The acrobats represent the precarious and unbalanced journey that life resembles, walking on a tightrope.

Theme of death: Death is portrayed as an inevitable reality in the film. Each acrobatic performance symbolizes facing and overcoming death.

"Sawdust Tales" qualifies as a significant example of existential cinema. It encourages viewers to think and question, prompting them to ponder the meaning and purpose of human life.

In conclusion, "Sawdust Tales" is a visually and aurally captivating film that delves into existential themes with depth and compels the viewer to reflect. A must-watch for cinephiles, it promises a memorable and thought-provoking experience.

Yengeç Sepeti (1994)

Good bye Sir...

[6/10 · 11 March 2024]

A Farewell to Sadri Alisik and a Glimpse into 90s Turkish Cinema

Directed by Yavuz Özkan, "Yengeç Sepeti" is a 1994 Turkish drama film that stands out for its ensemble cast of legendary actors from both Yesilçam and the Turkish theater scene. The film also marks the final performance of Sadri Alisik, one of Turkey's most beloved actors, before his passing.

While the film's plot may not be groundbreaking, it offers a compelling glimpse into the dynamics of a family gathering. The story revolves around an elderly couple who invite their children and grandchildren to their summer home. As the family comes together, old tensions and secrets resurface, leading to emotional confrontations and revelations.

One of the film's strengths lies in its performances. Sadri Alisik delivers a poignant performance as the patriarch, while Macide Tanir provides a strong counterpart as his wife. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with notable performances from Mehmet Aslantug, Sahika Tekand, and Derya Alabora.

Visually, the film is a product of its time, with some dated camerawork and editing. However, Ertunç Senkay's cinematography, which has won five Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival awards, still shines through in certain scenes, capturing the beauty of the Turkish landscape.

Despite its flaws, "Yengeç Sepeti" is a valuable film for its historical significance and as a testament to the talent of Sadri Alisik and the golden age of Turkish cinema. It is a film that may not appeal to everyone, but it is sure to leave a lasting impression on those who watch it.

Recommendation: If you are interested in Turkish cinema or are a fan of Sadri Alisik, "Yengeç Sepeti" is worth a watch. However, be prepared for a film that is rooted in its time and may not be to everyone's taste.

Zorro Kamçili Süvari (1969)

Turkish Zorro

[7/10 · 11 March 2024]

"Zorro Kamçili Süvari" is a 1969 Turkish spaghetti western film directed by Yilmaz Atadeniz. During that era, adapting Hollywood classics without permission was a global trend, and this film is an example of that trend.

Starring Yesilçam legends Tamer Yigit, Nebahat Çehre, and Reha Yurdakul, the film's script may not be original, but its music consists of selections from Ennio Morricone's compositions. The film, also known as "Turkish Zorro," is also popular with Western film enthusiasts.

The film is not without its flaws. For example, the film has a lower budget compared to spaghetti western classics, and this is evident in some scenes. Additionally, some scenes in the film are quite clichéd and predictable.

Despite its flaws, "Zorro Kamcili Süvari" is one of the most enjoyable films of Yesilçam. If you are looking for an entertaining, action-packed, and nostalgic film, I recommend watching this film.

Pros:

Exciting action scenes Colorful costumes and sets Yesilçam's unique melodramatic style Performances by master actors such as Tamer Yigit, Nebahat Çehre, and Reha Yurdakul Cons:

Low budget Clichéd and predictable scenes Overall:

"Zorro Kamcili Süvari" is a fun and entertaining film that offers a glimpse into Yesilçam's unique take on the spaghetti western genre. If you are a fan of either genre, I recommend checking this film out.

Sujo (2024)

Sundance

[8/10 · 11 March 2024]

"SUJO" is a masterful blend of compelling storytelling and mesmerizing visuals. The film's brisk pace keeps the audience engaged, while the stunning cinematography by Ximena Amann paints a vivid and atmospheric backdrop. Each frame is a work of art, capturing the essence of Sujo's world with remarkable detail and authenticity.

Juan Jesús Varela delivers a tour-de-force performance as Sujo, bringing depth and nuance to a complex and emotionally wrought character. Varela's performance captures the full range of Sujo's emotions, from the innocence of his childhood to the hardened resolve of his adulthood.

More than a gripping family tragedy, "SUJO" is a powerful indictment of violence and its devastating impact on society. The film unflinchingly confronts the brutal realities of life in a world ruled by cartels, offering a glimpse into the human cost of violence.

"SUJO" is a cinematic triumph that deserves to be seen by a wide audience. The film's powerful message, stunning visuals, and exceptional performances make it an unforgettable and thought-provoking experience.

Spaceman (I) (2024)

Mehh...!!!

[5/10 · 9 March 2024]

Directed by Johan Renck and adapted from Jaroslav Kalfar's 2017 novel Spaceman of Bohemia, Spaceman initially appears to be an intriguing science fiction film. With an experienced director, a star-studded cast, and Max Richter's captivating music, the film invites the viewer into the mysteries of space and an astronaut's inner journey.

However, the film's appeal does not go beyond a superficial examination. The visual effects are mediocre and Adam Sandler's performance falls far short of his previous dramatic roles. The film's main problem is its lack of soul. The story fails to emotionally engage the viewer, and the characters struggle to connect with the audience.

In some scenes, there is a sense of a lack of motivation, as if even the actors are caught up in the film's atmosphere. There is no passion or excitement about the story's direction. This significantly reduces the film's impact.

Despite its high potential, Spaceman fails to live up to expectations. While it offers a visual spectacle and an impressive musical atmosphere, it fails to satisfy the viewer with its soulless and uninspired storytelling. The film is likely to leave a faint impression on the viewer's memory, like a spirit lost among the stars.

Positives:

Visually stunning cinematography Max Richter's captivating music An experienced director and a star-studded cast Negatives:

Mediocre visual effects Soulless and uninspired storytelling Adam Sandler's mediocre performance Lack of motivation from the actors Conclusion:

While visually impressive and possessing high potential, Spaceman fails to satisfy the viewer with its soulless and uninspired storytelling. The film is likely to leave a faint impression on the viewer's memory, like a spirit lost among the stars.

Ronin (1998)

Djivan Gasparyan

[9/10 · 8 March 2024]

John Frankenheimer's Ronin is a 1998 action thriller film that follows a group of former intelligence agents and mercenaries hired to steal a mysterious briefcase in Paris. The film stars Robert De Niro, Jean Reno, Natascha McElhone, Sean Bean, and Stellan Skarsgård.

Ronin is a masterclass in action cinema. The film's action sequences are some of the best ever put to film, with the car chases in particular being incredibly thrilling and suspenseful. The film's cast is also excellent, with De Niro, Reno, and Bean all giving memorable performances.

The film's plot is relatively simple, but it is executed with such skill and precision that it never feels boring or predictable. The film is also notable for its realistic portrayal of violence and its complex characters.

Ronin is a must-see for fans of action cinema. It is a film that is both exciting and thought-provoking, and it is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Here are some of the things that make Ronin a great film:

The action sequences: The film's action sequences are some of the best ever put to film. They are thrilling, suspenseful, and incredibly well-choreographed.

The cast: The film's cast is excellent. Robert De Niro, Jean Reno, Natascha McElhone, Sean Bean, and Stellan Skarsgård all give memorable performances.

The plot: The film's plot is relatively simple, but it is executed with such skill and precision that it never feels boring or predictable.

The violence: The film's violence is realistic and unflinching. It is not gratuitous, but it is also not shied away from.

The characters: The film's characters are complex and well-developed. They are not simply good or evil, but rather shades of gray.

Overall, Ronin is a masterpiece of action cinema. It is a film that is both exciting and thought-provoking, and it is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Seaburners (2014)

The Importance of Female Voices in Cinema

[7/10 · 6 March 2024]

I recently had the privilege of rewatching Melisa Önel's 2014 film Kumun Tadi (Seaburners) in a cinema setting, followed by a Q&A session with the director and co-screenwriter Feride Çiçekoglu. Having cherished the film's DVD for years, this experience was even more special, allowing me to appreciate the film's nuances on a deeper level and connect with its creators.

Seaburners is a harrowing and unflinching portrayal of human trafficking, a wound that continues to plague humanity. The film follows Hamit, a charcoal smuggler who reluctantly agrees to transport a group of Syrian refugees across the Turkish border. As the journey unfolds, the harsh realities of human trafficking are laid bare, exposing the desperation of those seeking refuge and the cruelty of those who exploit them.

Önel, a photographer by training, brings her keen eye for composition to the film, crafting visually arresting and evocative frames. The film's landscape, both stark and beautiful, becomes a character in itself, reflecting the harshness of the journey and the resilience of the human spirit.

Çiçekoglu's screenplay, based on her own novel, is both poetic and powerful. She deftly weaves together the stories of Hamit and the refugees, creating a multi-layered narrative that explores themes of survival, morality, and redemption. The film's dialogue is sharp and realistic, adding to the film's authenticity.

One of the most striking aspects of Seaburners is its portrayal of women. In a male-dominated world, Önel and Çiçekoglu present strong, complex female characters who defy stereotypes. Denise, a botanist working in the border region, provides a compassionate and empathetic perspective. Selda, a young refugee, embodies the strength and resilience of those who have lost everything.

Seaburners is a powerful and important film that shines a light on a dark and often overlooked issue. It is a testament to the talent of Önel and Çiçekoglu, two rising stars in Turkish cinema, and a reminder of the importance of female voices in the film industry.

The Importance of Female Voices in Cinema:

Seaburners is a powerful example of the unique perspective that female filmmakers bring to cinema. Women directors and screenwriters have a distinct storytelling style and touch that is often characterized by intimacy, empathy, and a focus on character development.

In an industry still dominated by men, female filmmakers continue to face challenges in getting their films made. The lack of female representation in key decision-making roles and the persistent gender pay gap are just some of the obstacles that women face.

Seaburners is a reminder of the importance of supporting female filmmakers and creating opportunities for them to tell their stories. By doing so, we can enrich the film industry and create a more diverse and inclusive cinematic landscape.

In conclusion, Kumun Tadi / Seaburners is a powerful and important film that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. It is a must-see for anyone interested in human trafficking, social justice, or the power of cinema.

Constellation (2024– )

Bravo

[8/10 · 5 March 2024]

"Constellation," Apple TV+'s new sci-fi drama, is a mesmerizing and thought-provoking exploration of loss, grief, and the power of human connection. Created by Peter Harness ("The War of the Worlds") and directed by Michelle MacLaren ("Breaking Bad," "Game of Thrones"), the series boasts a stellar cast, led by Noomi Rapace ("The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo"), in a dual role.

The story follows Jo (Rapace), a space shuttle pilot who is haunted by the death of her husband, a fellow astronaut who died during a mission. When Jo is offered the chance to participate in a new experimental program that could allow her to communicate with her husband's consciousness, she seizes the opportunity. However, the experiment has unexpected consequences, and Jo finds herself caught up in a complex mystery that threatens not only her own life but the future of humanity.

One of the things that sets "Constellation" apart from other sci-fi dramas is its unique visual style. The series features some of the most stunning space cinematography I've seen since Alfonso Cuarón's "Gravity." The special effects are also top-notch, helping to create a truly immersive and believable world.

But "Constellation" is more than just a visual spectacle. It's also a deeply emotional and character-driven story. Rapace gives a tour-de-force performance, bringing both strength and vulnerability to the role of Jo. The supporting cast is also excellent, with Jonathan Banks ("Better Call Saul") and James D'Arcy ("Agent Carter") providing strong performances.

The series also explores some complex and thought-provoking themes. "Constellation" is a show that asks big questions about the nature of reality, the meaning of life, and the power of love. It's a show that will stay with you long after you've finished watching it.

If you're a fan of sci-fi dramas, then you need to check out "Constellation." It's a show that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. It's a show that will make you think, feel, and wonder.

Here are some additional things to consider:

The music is a bit weak in some spots, but it doesn't detract too much from the overall experience.

The pacing can be a bit slow at times, but it allows the characters and story to develop fully.

The show is not afraid to tackle some complex and challenging themes.

Overall, "Constellation" is a highly recommended sci-fi drama that is sure to please fans of the genre.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

P. S. If you're a fan of Stephen King, you'll be happy to know that he's a fan of the show too. He tweeted about it, saying, "Constellation is a mind-bender. I'm hooked."

A Round of Applause (2024– )

Berkun Oya; Back to Orange.

[9/10 · 29 February 2024]

A magnificent work of Berkun Oya. What scares me the most is whether the translations in other languages will kill the spirit of the work, since the language in which this work was written is Turkish.

Because whether it's New York or Tokyo, Mecca or the Vatican, I want people who consume this work to have the same pleasure I do.

Criticism of daily life? Criticism of society? Political criticism? Self-criticism? Reproach criticism? Criticism of religions that deny God?

Oya held her pen both harshly against everyone and everything and equal to everyone and everything.

The cast and the behind-the-scenes team, who are at least as successful as Berkun Oya, have worked hard to make this work leave a unique taste in people's minds.

This is why I love Netflix ... If Oya had continued making films, he would not have been this free and he would not have been able to reach so many people.

I think the same thing after every Berkun Oya work; I wonder what his next project will be like...

Thank you Berkun... again and again.

Avatar: The Last Airbender (2024– )

Yep Yep Netflix

[10/10 · 24 February 2024]

The 2024 nik/Netflix live action series that I started to return to as soon as it ended.

Due to the channel on which the animation is broadcast, places that should be dark but are not are handled perfectly in this series.

For example, firebenders are burning people to death.

It is also explained very well how important element bending is and how it works on the characters of the benders.

Sound design '(dolby atmos' 5.1.2), set design, acting, music... Netflix has once again managed to handle a live action series very well.

This work, just like its animation, will be a cultural heritage passed on from generation to generation. It was made with a quality that befits it because everyone who worked on this work was aware of what an important job they were doing.

Night Games (1966)

Jörgen Lindström

[9/10 · 17 February 2024]

The film, which premiered at the 27th Venice International Film Festival, caused so much controversy at the time that the Venice jury had to watch the film in a special room.

The name of the film at the center of all these discussions is Jörgen Lindström, who started his cinema career at the age of 9 and starred in 4 films that went down in golden letters in the history of cinema, three of which were directed by Ingmar Bergman. He left the cinema at the age of 12 and started editing films after university.

I mean, it's very difficult to shoot this movie today.

Swedish cinema consists of cinema workers who love to walk successfully on a tight rope...

One Day (2024)

Leo & Ambika and Songs

[8/10 · 13 February 2024]

I haven't read David Nicholls' book, I kept postponing it, so the 2011 movie (which I love) is the main source for me.

The idea of re-adapting my favorite works of literature and art generally scares me because after great expectations come bad things, and this has been the case for a very long time.

But here Netflix has produced a good example of adaptation... We had the chance to take a deeper look at the emotions and situations of the two characters in our focus, and it became impossible not to be influenced by the increasing emotionality after the fifth episode.

The biggest plus of the series for me was meeting Leo Woodall and Ambika Mod. It is not very interesting that I have never heard of these two names, born in the 90s, because they have not been given the opportunity to show themselves in any of the projects they have been involved in until this series.

Long story short, even if you haven't read the book or watched the movie, the series will have no difficulty in impressing you...

And and and... the song choices are excellent.

The Animal Kingdom (2023)

Paul Kircher

[9/10 · 10 February 2024]

We are in a period when European cinema, which has always been ahead of Hollywood in terms of quality and quantity, has caught up with Hollywood in terms of technique and budget.

While European cinema workers are using this technical skill and budget to serve the script, Hollywood is still looking for a shot.

In this sense, 'Le Regne Animal' is a very valuable production.

It was a movie that entered my radar as soon as I saw its poster at the French Cultural Center affiliated with the French consulate in Istanbul in 2022.

César Award director Thomas Cailley, with the support of his amazing behind-the-scenes team, manages to keep the audience's focus from the first seconds to the last moment of the film.

But the real reason why I'm waiting for this movie with great excitement is Paul Kircher.

Take note of this name, keep an eye on it...

And definitely watch this movie.

Ashes (2024)

Ay Yapim...

[2/10 · 9 February 2024]

Streaming services have begun to attract independent/art-house cinema screenwriters and directors not only in Turkey but also in the world. And filmmakers welcome this offer because these services provide them with a freer and richer space.

Netflix, in particular, has dominated almost all awards in the world for the last 10 years.

And thanks to this, we watched many successful movies...

So, we can look at why this mathematics does not work in Turkey through this movie.

Director ; virtue overhead .... we know from art-house/independent works.

Most of the actors, writers, cinematographers... The cast is almost made up of such people.

So why wasn't this movie made? Because no matter who is in front of or behind the camera, the label on the movie is ay production and this movie is nothing more than a typical ay production series.

Unless the monopoly of the streaming company in Turkey is broken, there is no way we can watch Roma.

We have talented cinema workers and sufficient technical infrastructure...

As usual, there is no production company that comes from TV. Channel D, ATV series, where it is easier to make love, swear, alcohol and cigarettes are not censored = Turkish works on Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime etc.

Paris, 13th District (2021)

Audiard

[8/10 · 3 February 2024]

The most important trump card of the film, directed by Jacques Audiard, who is as talented as his father Michel Audiard, is undoubtedly the loveable Noémie Merlant along with Céline Sciamma and Léa Mysius...

I think the film, which offers a delicious viewing pleasure with shots in which cinematographer Paul Guilhaume salutes the black and white style of La Haine, also has the distinction of being Audiard's most naive film.

Although the film, which has three parts in itself, falters a little in between, it does not have the slightest problem in conveying its problem to its audience.

The movie deserved every award it received.

Hanging Gardens (2022)

Amazing

[8/10 · 31 January 2024]

Ahmed Yassin Al Daradji has created a film made for the Orientalist West, set in the Middle East, that stands out among the hundreds of garbage works written for awards...

The director does not disappoint the trust he has in this regard.

Although he made me a little sad with Stray, he made amends with this interesting script and the acting and cinematography that made the script strong. LoL:)

Hussain Muhammad Jalil should not be mentioned here... In a movie of this scale, despite his young age, he did not feel awkward in front of the professional actors in the cast.

It is difficult to find talented child actors in today's cinema. But the Middle East has always been lucky in this regard.

All of Us Strangers (2023)

Modern Masterpiece

[10/10 · 28 January 2024]

Taiçi Yamada is a writer who blends urban alienation with the uncanny in his novels, focusing on intellectual processes and the emotional world of the character rather than events. Throughout his novel, he takes his readers on a mysterious journey through the streets of a city whose inhabitants have almost lost their souls.

The novel Strangers made a big impact the year it was first published in Japan, where it was already a closed box. (This was also the first name of this movie, by the way)

Author/screenwriter Andrew Haigh was very impressed by the novel, and it is obvious, but his trademark lies in his ability to make autobiographical touches while adapting this novel...

Andrew, who has directed three of my favorite DVDs (Weekend - 2011, 45 Years - 2015, Lean on Pete - 2017), has brought the story from the grayness of Japan and the Japanese people to London in a magnificent way.

Andrew Scott, Paul Mescal and Jamie Bell, three names he has followed since the very beginning of their careers, show the audience what an actor can add from himself when he loves the story.

I haven't seen Andrew Scott this committed since Steel Country, where he was so possessive that he was willing to pay a pittance.

To make a long story short, I am writing these while listening to Frankie Goes to Hollywood's Welcome to the Pleasuredome record and the song The Power of Love sounds heavier than before...

I hope Sony and Disney will bring this movie to a wider audience through streaming, blu-ray, vod sales etc.