Luxbox acquires ‘One of Those Days When Hemme Dies!’: A cinematic journey through Turkey’s socio-political landscape
A new voice in Turkish cinema
The world of cinema is about to witness a compelling new voice with the feature debut of Turkish filmmaker Murat Firatoglu. His film, One of Those Days When Hemme Dies!, has been acquired by sales agency Luxbox and is set to premiere in the Horizons section of the Venice Film Festival. This film promises to be a poignant exploration of contemporary Turkey, blending personal struggle with broader societal issues.
Eyüp’s relentless quest
At the heart of the film is Eyüp, a man driven by desperation and urgency. Under the scorching sun of southeastern Turkey, Eyüp toils in a tomato harvest, burdened by the need to settle an impending debt. His journey takes a dramatic turn after a confrontation with his supervisor, leading him to wander the city in search of a radical solution. This narrative is not just a personal story but a reflection of the broader socio-economic challenges faced by many in Turkey.
A visual and emotional connection
Jennyfer Gautier, head of international sales at Luxbox, and Fiorella Moretti, the company’s president, were immediately captivated by the film’s striking visuals and the character of Eyüp. They noted, “We felt strongly connected to Eyüp as he navigates his anger and desperation, and the subtle humor in the film enhances this connection. We are confident the audience will feel the same.”
Tradition meets modernity
The film masterfully contrasts tradition and modernity, mirroring the changes happening in Turkey. Firatoglu explains, “Eyüp reflects Turkey itself — a nation grappling with its own contradictions. This wasn’t a deliberate intention but naturally emerged as the story took shape.” This organic development adds depth to the narrative, making it resonate on multiple levels.
Polarization and global relevance
One of Those Days When Hemme Dies! also delves into the growing polarization in Turkish society, highlighting the stark divide between wealthy investors and the impoverished working class. Firatoglu, who is also a lawyer, brings his political perspective to the film. He states, “Polarization is a significant issue in Turkey, but it’s not unique to us — it’s happening worldwide. The film has a left-leaning perspective, which aligns with my own views. But I think the polarization we’re experiencing is a symptom of a larger global issue.”
Themes of masculinity and survival
The film touches on themes of masculinity, violence, and pride, but Firatoglu emphasizes that these are not the core issues. “What really matters are basic human needs like food, shelter, security, and the notion of human honor. These are the things that concern people when they’re struggling to survive,” he says. This focus on fundamental human needs adds a layer of universality to the film, making it relatable to audiences worldwide.
Striking visuals and profound imagery
The film opens with visually stunning scenes of the tomato harvest, set against a backdrop of dry yellow mountains, red tomatoes, blue sky, and a blazing sun. Firatoglu reflects, “Sometimes we come across a scene that profoundly impresses and captivates us, but we can’t quite articulate why. For me, it was the imagery of this landscape devoid of people. However, when you add workers who toil in harsh conditions and have no social security, it turns the description of heaven into something that makes us ashamed to be human.”
A must-watch for cinema enthusiasts
For those passionate about cinema, One of Those Days When Hemme Dies! is a film that promises to offer a rich, multi-layered experience. It is a story of personal struggle set against the backdrop of broader societal issues, told through striking visuals and a compelling narrative. The film’s premiere at the Venice Film Festival is highly anticipated, and it is sure to leave a lasting impact on audiences.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit One of Those Days When Hemme Dies!.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive and engaging overview of One of Those Days When Hemme Dies!, highlighting its significance in the context of contemporary Turkish cinema and its broader socio-political themes. By blending personal reflections with in-depth analysis, the article seeks to offer a unique perspective that will resonate with cinema enthusiasts and general readers alike.