"Sen Aydınlatırsın Geceyi" (Thou Gild'st the Even): A Surreal Journey Through Love and Extraordinary Powers

İrem Uğur
Onedio Member
0

'Sen Aydınlatırsın Geceyi,' a captivating Turkish film released in 2013, stands as a unique example of the film noir genre, infused with fantastic and absurd elements that create an intriguing cinematic experience. Written and directed by Onur Ünlü, this multi-award-winning masterpiece takes audiences on a mesmerizing journey through a world where extraordinary powers coexist with everyday life. With its distinctive editing, narrative technique, and evocative black and white visuals, the film leaves an indelible mark on the landscape of Turkish cinema.

Exploring the Film's Uniqueness

'Sen Aydınlatırsın Geceyi' offers a refreshing departure from conventional storytelling by seamlessly blending elements of fantasy, mystery, and romance. Onur Ünlü's directorial prowess shines through as he crafts a world where extraordinary abilities become a backdrop to explore the ordinary struggles of its characters. This juxtaposition of the extraordinary and the mundane is a hallmark of the film, inviting viewers into a realm where the line between reality and fantasy blurs.

Characters and Their Powers

At the heart of the film lies a group of characters, each possessing their own unique superpowers. The main protagonist, Cemal, portrayed by Ali Atay, is a young man residing in Akhisar. His ability to see through walls grants him a unique perspective on the world around him. However, his gift also isolates him from the people he observes, creating a sense of detachment.

Cemal's love interest, Yasemin (played by Demet Evgar), possesses the power to move objects with a touch of her finger. This power symbolizes her desire to exert control and shape her own destiny in a world that often seems beyond her influence.

Another character, Defne (Ahmet Mümtaz Taylan), has the ability to stop time. This extraordinary power introduces a sense of complexity and unpredictability to the narrative, leading to unexpected twists and turns.

The Story Unveiled

Set in the quaint town of Akhisar, where everyone seems to know each other, 'Sen Aydınlatırsın Geceyi' unfolds as a mature and fluent exploration of the struggles and anxieties faced by its characters. Against the backdrop of a sky adorned with two suns and three full moons, the film navigates the challenges of individuals who possess extraordinary abilities yet grapple with the same insecurities and desires as anyone else.

As Cemal attempts to find meaning and connection in his life, his affection for Yasemin becomes a focal point. However, the introduction of Defne and her time-stopping power sets off a chain of events that test the boundaries of love, loyalty, and the human experience. The presence of an immortal boss and an invisible primary school teacher further enriches the film's tapestry of characters, each contributing to the exploration of the human condition in extraordinary circumstances.

Cast

  • Ali Atay - Cemal

  • Demet Evgar - Yasemin

  • Damla Sönmez - Defne

  • Ezgi Mola - Cigdem

  • Ercan Kesal - Irfan