Once Upon a Time in Anatolia
Aren't most suicides intended to punish someone else, Mr. Prosecutor?
Overview
A group of men lead a search for a victim of a murder to whom a suspect named Kenan and his mentally challenged brother confessed. However, the search is proving more difficult than expected as Kenan is fuzzy as to the body's location. As the group continues looking, its members can't help but chat among themselves about everyday life, which ultimately leads to conversations about their deepest existential concerns and secrets.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
Set in modern-day Turkey, the movie provides a glimpse into the country's rural culture and police procedures. It also touches upon themes of identity, tradition, and the impact of modernization on ancient communities.
- This film showcases Nuri Bilge Ceylan's mastery of slow-burn storytelling, keeping viewers engaged with its intricate plot and layered characters.
- The movie is a thought-provoking exploration of morality, justice, and the human condition, making it a must-watch for those seeking depth in their cinema.
- Once Upon a Time in Anatolia offers stunning cinematography that captures the beauty and harshness of the Turkish landscape, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
- The film's dialogue-heavy approach highlights the power of words in shaping our understanding of events and people.
Fun Facts
- The entire movie was shot over 27 days during the summer solstice to take advantage of the extended daylight hours for long, uninterrupted takes.
- In one scene, characters are seen discussing and quoting works by famous Turkish authors Orhan Pamuk and Yasar Kemal.
- The movie's title is a reference to Sergio Leone's 'Once Upon a Time in the West', a homage to the Italian spaghetti Western genre.