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How about discovering the best Turkish films? After all, Turkish cinema, with its rich tapestry of stories and visual landscapes, has emerged as a powerful source of cinematic narratives.
In this article, we will explore the seven best Turkish films that have not only received critical acclaim but also captured the hearts of audiences around the world.
As such, these films stand out for their deep human explorations, character complexity, and ability to paint a vivid portrait of Turkish society. In addition to recommending the 7 best Turkish films, at the end of this article you will find a catalog of Turkish films and series available on Netflix.
Read too:
The best Turkish films to watch
1. Winter Sleep – Nuri Bilge Ceylan
Firstly, “Winter Sleep”, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Nuri Bilge Ceylan, is a cinematic masterpiece that explores the complexity of human relationships against the backdrop of Cappadocia in winter.
The film follows the story of Aydin, a former actor who now operates a small hotel in the mountains.
As winter deepens, Aydin finds himself in increasing conflicts with his young wife Nihal and his sister Necla, culminating in a profound exploration of the human condition, pride and isolation.
Where to watch: Apple TV
Available languages: Portuguese and English
2. Once Upon a Time in Anatolia – Nuri Bilge Ceylan
Another masterpiece by Nuri Bilge Ceylan, “Once Upon a Time in Anatolia,” is a crime drama that unfolds with the hypnotic slowness of a nighttime search for a body buried in the Anatolian steppes.
Through the long night, as a group of men, including police officers and a prosecutor, search for the body, the film delves into themes of morality, existentialism and the search for truth, slowly revealing the characters' secrets and stories.
Where to watch: Google Play
Available languages: Portuguese and English
3. The Tree of Wild Fruits – Nuri Bilge Ceylan
In “The Tree of Wild Fruits,” we are introduced to Sinan, a young aspiring writer who returns to his home village in Anatolia after college.
The film is a meditation on aspirations, disillusionment and the struggle between generations.
In this way, through Sinan's journey to publish his book, Ceylan weaves a narrative about internal conflict and the search for meaning in a world that seems indifferent to a young man's dreams.
Where to watch: Prime Video
Available languages: Portuguese and English
4. About Dry Grasses – Nuri Bilge Ceylan
This lesser-known film by Nuri Bilge Ceylan nevertheless maintains the director's signature of exploring the depths of the human soul. “About Dry Grasses” details the lives of characters situated in the complex social and political fabric of rural Turkey.
Although specific details about the synopsis are scarcer, the work is known for its introspective and contemplative approach to everyday lives.
Where to watch: TokyVideo
Available languages: English
5. Don't Let Them Shoot the Kite – Tunç Başaran
“Don't Let Them Shoot the Kite”, directed by Tunç Başaran, is an emotional film that takes place within the walls of a Turkish prison.
Through the eyes of a child born in prison, the film explores themes of freedom, innocence and the harsh reality of the prison system.
As such, this film is a poignant critique and a powerful representation of the humanity found in the most desolate places.
Where to watch: Mubi
Available languages: English
6. Burning Days – Emin Alper
“Burning Days” by Emin Alper is a visceral representation of youth and marginality in contemporary Turkey.
The film follows two brothers who struggle to find their place in a world that oscillates between modernity and traditions.
As events unfold under the oppressive summer heat, their lives take an unexpected turn, plunging them into a whirlwind of violence and despair.
Where to watch: Mubi
Available languages: English
7. The Way – Yilmaz Güney & Serif Gören
Finally, on the list of the best Turkish films, we have “The Way”, co-directed by Yilmaz Güney and Serif Gören, is a powerful epic about two prisoners who escape with the hope of finding freedom.
While on the run, they are confronted with the harsh realities of life outside bars, as well as the beauty and pain of human solidarity.
This film is an ode to the fight for freedom and human resistance in the face of adversity.
Where to watch: Google Play
Available languages: Portuguese and English
Conclusion
Each of these best Turkish films offers a unique window into different aspects of Turkish life, from deep personal relationships to social and political critiques.
They not only highlight Turkey's ability to produce world-class cinema, but also serve as cultural bridges, inviting viewers from all over the world to immerse themselves in its gripping narratives and exceptional cinematography.
In doing so, they reaffirm the power of cinema to transcend borders and unite people through the universal language of art.
And of course, in addition to these 7 films that we talked about in more detail, you can watch several Turkish films and series within the Netflix, here is a catalog of films and series available on this streaming platform: Turkish Catalog
See also our list of 10 films to make you cry: here! Questions about the best Turkish films? Leave it below in the comments!
