Keswick Film Festival

Synopsis

A wonderfully sharp portrait of a friendship disintegrating under pressure from time, place and social difference.

Mahmut, disillusioned, divorced photographer living fastidiously alone in Istanbul, reluctantly agrees to put up Yusuf, an uncultured country cousin looking for work. However, Yusuf's half-hearted search is unsuccessful and he begins to outstay his welcome.

Sly, restrained humour ensures that this melancholic look at friendship, fulfilment and the inability to connect never feels suffocating. It's the things left unsaid which speak volumes.

Grand Jury Prize, Cannes, 2003
Joint Winners, Best Actor, Cannes, 2003