 Think Before You Leap
This week, I want to analyze the new film "AROG" and its many references to other famous films. When I first saw the trailer, I couldn't help but notice that there was a strong reference to Ridley Scott's well-known film "Alien." However, when I watched "AROG," I also noticed that the scene from the trailer was cut from the actual movie. So, if you want to see that part, seek out the trailer. As the film progressed, there was a part where the lead character came across a dinosaur. There was an obvious connection to a scene in the film "2001: A Space Odyssey," which is one of my favorites. If you have seen the famous film, you may remember the opening sequence when a black block falls from the sky into the middle of a group of monkeys.
So why do I write about all of this? Well, because as a film student I LOVE to not only watch a movie, but to read a film, to look closely at it, dissect it, and analyze it. When there are such references to other important films, it tells me that most of these are done on purpose, with particular attention being paid to detail. They are planned out and worked in to the story with great care. Part of what I liked about "AROG" was trying to figure out and make sense of what the placement of these references might mean.
Of course, "AROG" is a Turkish film, which leads me to an important point that I would like to make. I don't really understand the negative attitude that exists towards Turkish films in our society. There are many good Turkish films being made right now. One film that I really like is "Autumn," by Özcan Alper. There is also a lot of talk about Issız Adam, by Çağan Irmak, as well. I haven't actually watched it yet, but am planning to. I should also mention the film "3 Monkeys," by Nuri Bilge Ceylan. These have all proven to be successful. I believe as more successful Turkish films are made, people's opinions will start to change. Of course, I am not suggesting that we should not watch Hollywood movies, but I think we need a break from the clichés coming from California, and start watching films that speak to us, and our culture. The filmmakers that I mention above are working on this, bringing our world to life on the big screen and giving us a reason to change our views on Turkish cinema.
I fare you well for now…
Alev Değim (COMD/IV)
contactinspector@yahoo.com
 |
