Story
Professor at Ankara University, Aziz (Tansu Bişer) receives the “yellow letter” which arbitrarily notifies him of his dismissal. When his wife Derya (Özgü Namal), a famous actress at the national theater, also receives it, it is the final blow for the couple. Both, condemned for their ideas, are forced to take refuge in Istanbul at Aziz’s mother’s house. The compromise between this new precarious situation and their political commitment will test their marriage…
Our opinion
Two years ago, Ilker Çatak made a big impact with “The Teachers’ Room,” showcasing his talent and that of actress Leonie Benesch in a lively, edgy film set in a school environment. His new film, freshly awarded the Golden Bear for Best Film at the Berlinale, is equally strong in its approach to censorship, the political struggle led by artists, and in an unexpected way, the resonance it produces within the couple. A duo forced into exile, but eager to continue their fight while avoiding further sinking into precarity. As daily life catches up with them, roles change and each person’s position evolves to the point of no return.
An unusual approach that delves into the intimacy of these theater figures fallen into anonymity, treated with fervor. “Yellow Letters” stands out from similar productions by avoiding the trap of the lost cause battle of David vs. Goliath represented by institutions, to question the notion of an artist and their relationship with politics.
What is possible to change? How loyal can one be to their convictions? What must one be willing to sacrifice? How to reinvent oneself in the face of powerful pressure? All these questions are tackled head-on… and addressed to the audience, inviting them to reflect on the space given today to freedom of expression.
DRAMA (Germany, France, Turkey, 2 hours 8 minutes). Directed by Ilker Catak starring Özgü Namal, Tansu Bişer, Leyla Smyrna Cabas. Rating: 4/5.
