Watch Teslimiyet

Teslimiyet is a 2010 Turkish drama film directed by Emre Yalgın. The story revolves around the life of a university professor named Neriman (Didem Soylu) who is dealing with the aftermath of her husband’s affair. The film is based on the novel “Karıncanın Su İçtiği” by the acclaimed Turkish writer, Sait Faik Abasıyanık.

At the beginning of the film, Neriman is seen trying to find a new home after leaving her husband’s house. She comes across an advertisement for a room to rent from the Islamist family of Özlem (Seyhan Arman) and her younger brother, Mehmet (Kanbolat Gorkem Arslan). Although hesitant at first, Neriman accepts the offer because she needs to move out of her old house.

As the story progresses, Neriman becomes friends with Özlem and her family. She learns about their beliefs and struggles as devoted Muslims in a secular society. She also becomes romantically involved with Mehmet, who is a young and passionate Islamist struggling to find his place in the world. Mehmet’s sister, Özlem, is a devout Muslim and a traditional Turkish woman. She plays the mediator between Neriman and her brother.

The film explores various themes, including religion, love, belonging, and identity. It highlights the clash of values between secular and religious groups in Turkey, as well as the struggle of young Muslims to reconcile their beliefs with the demands of modern life. The film also portrays the position of women in Turkish society, both through Neriman's plight to adjust after her husband's infidelity and through the experiences of Özlem and her family as Muslim women in a secular society.

The film's cinematography is noteworthy. The film is shot in a documentary-style, which adds to the authenticity of the narrative. The camera angles and the framing of the shots are intimate and personal, as if the audience is part of the characters’ inner circle. The naturalistic lighting and the use of colors help to set the mood and the tone of the scenes.

The acting performances in the film are also commendable. Didem Soylu portrays Neriman convincingly, beautifully conveying her inner turmoil and emotional struggles throughout the story. Kanbolat Gorkem Arslan, who plays Mehmet, delivers a powerful performance as a young man torn between his passion for his beliefs and his love for Neriman. Seyhan Arman, who portrays the supportive yet traditional Özlem, is also excellent in her role.

Overall, Teslimiyet is a poignant and thought-provoking drama that sheds light on the complexities of Turkish society, particularly the lives of devout Muslims. It is a well-made film that engages and challenges the audience with its themes and characters. With its honest portrayal of the lives of its protagonists, Teslimiyet has earned a spot among the best Turkish films of the decade.