'Sivas,' a 2014 Turkish drama directed by Kaan Müjdeci, is a poignant exploration of the life of an eleven-year-old boy named Aslan and his unique relationship with a fighting dog named Sivas. The film's compelling narrative takes viewers on a journey through the challenges of rural Turkey, where personal aspirations, societal norms, and the deep bond between a boy and his dog collide
'Sivas' earned significant recognition on the international stage. It was selected to compete for the Golden Lion at the 71st Venice International Film Festival and ultimately secured the Special Jury Prize, a testament to its exceptional storytelling and direction. The film was also chosen as the Turkish entry for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the 88th Academy Awards, though it was not nominated.
'Sivas,' directed by Kaan Müjdeci, follows the life of eleven-year-old Aslan (Dogan Izci) in a Turkish village. Aslan's relationships at school and home are marked by conflicts, mirroring the harsh realities of his environment.
When a school play is announced, Aslan wants the lead role to impress Ayse (Ezgi Ergin), a classmate he likes. His desire for recognition resonates with his bond to Sivas, a fighting dog he rescues after a brutal fight. Their companionship develops as Aslan nurses Sivas back to health.
Sivas's victories mirror Aslan's aspirations, but conflicts arise when his family considers selling the dog. Aslan's determination to protect Sivas leads to a clash between personal desires and societal norms, echoing the dog-fighting subculture they are part of.
The film's exploration of sacrifice and values resonates with Orhan Pamuk's 'Snow,' highlighting the human struggles in a challenging landscape. 'Sivas' captures the essence of a boy's journey through friendship, ambition, and the complexities of a world where belief and survival collide.
Nina Rothe, writing for The Huffington Post, drew parallels between 'Sivas' and Orhan Pamuk's novel 'Snow.' The film's portrayal of a challenging landscape and its impact on a young boy's perspective resonates with Pamuk's exploration of human harshness in a politically charged and economically disadvantaged environment. The passage from Pamuk's book, which questions the value of ideals in a 'brutal country,' underscores the film's themes of sacrifice, belief, and the realities faced by those living within such contexts.