Watch Lost Songs of Anatolia

Lost Songs of Anatolia (Anadolu'nun Kayip Sarkilari) is a 2008 Turkish documentary film directed by Nezih Unen. The movie showcases the traditional music and culture of Anatolia, which is an ancient region of Turkey. The documentary film takes us on a journey through time, showcasing the history and legacy of these songs. The film features interviews with a number of musicians, folk singers, and historians, who explore the roots of Anatolian music and how it has evolved over the centuries. The movie begins with a brief history of Anatolia, tracing it back to the Paleolithic era. The film explores various aspects of the region's history including the influence of Greek, Armenian, and Kurdish cultures. The focus is largely on the music of the region, which is seen as a reflection of the cultural heritage of Anatolia.

Lost Songs of Anatolia features stunning visuals of the rugged and beautiful Anatolian landscapes, along with close-ups of the numerous instruments that are commonly used in traditional folk music in the region. The film showcases haunting ballads and songs that evoke a wide range of emotions in the listener.

The documentary focuses on the musical traditions of Anatolia that originated from the rural areas and then were spread to the larger cities. The music is influenced by a variety of factors including religion, history, and politics, and embodies the essence of Anatolian culture.

One of the highlights of the film is the depiction of the 'ashiks', troubadours who influenced Turkish music in the Ottoman Empire. They were traveling singers who roamed the countryside, accompanied by their sazi, a stringed instrument. They would play and sing their songs, sharing their stories of love, loss, struggle, and triumph. The movie features interviews with some of the last remaining ashiks who share their personal anecdotes and recollections of the old days when music was an essential part of everyday life.

Lost Songs of Anatolia also showcases the importance of music in Turkey's history, especially during the tumultuous times, which include wars and political strife. The film provides a glimpse of how music has acted as a unifying force, helping people to unburden themselves of their hardships.

In conclusion, Lost Songs of Anatolia is an engaging and informative documentary that explores the rich musical heritage of Turkey's ancient Anatolian region. It showcases the variety and cultural relevance of the folk songs and is a must-watch for anyone interested in the traditional music of Turkey. The film provides a deep insight into the history of music and the various forces that influenced it while also highlighting the importance of preserving these timeless songs for future generations.