Cast
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Nadir Sarıbacak
as Yusuf Çelik
Isabella Haddock
as Renk Çelik
Gamze Ceylan
as Tulay Çelik
Samrat Chakrabarti
as Abdul
Tony Naumovski
as Markus
Ibrahima Traore
as Ibrahim
Max Schuster
as Cemetery Worker
Mark Lyons
as Cemetery Worker
Onur Usluca
as The Digger
Louis Pearlman
as The Digger
Joseph Fernandez
as The Digger
Crew
Director
- Scott Aharoni
- Dennis Latos
Writer
- Mustafa Kaymak
Producer
- Scott Aharoni
- Mustafa Kaymak
- Dennis Latos
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Leylak examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Scott Aharoni brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2021, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Leylak took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 17 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 53 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 38 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2021, when this film is released:
- Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
- The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Leylak shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike 10,000 Saints, which focuses more on action than character development, Leylak subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like La Jetée and Manhattan explore similar territory, Leylak stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: June 12, 2021
- Runtime: 17m
