BENÄ°M DÃœNYAM has a plot that is very reminiscent of THE TEN WONDER (1962), although the previous film was not named. In Ugur Yucel’s sentimental work, the deaf-mute young girl Eda (Beren Saat) is gradually socialized into normal life through the efforts of dedicated teacher Mahir (Yucel). The procedure is not without problems; His father (Turgay Kanturk) prefers to visit him in a psychiatric clinic. Out of sight, out of mind, as the saying goes.
The plot is familiar; And Yücel’s film doesn’t even help his rudimentary shooting style, which alternates between rotate/reverse shooting and group shots. The only truly effective technique he uses is to enlarge the character’s face in moments of extreme emotion.
The film is full of anachronisms – although believed to be in their thirties, both father and mother Eda (Aicha Bingyol) look very old – unlike Mahir, who throughout the film turns white and has characteristic gray hair. The 1970s succession was marred by heartbreaking moments; Newlyweds are unlikely to kiss on the lips right after the wedding ceremony, especially if they are out in public. The origins of advanced Alzheimer’s disease seem inconclusive; Again and again he is forgotten, then suddenly silent, until Edda “redeems” him at the end. May the disease be easily cured.
However, BENÄ°M DÃœNYAM is still worth watching due to Yücel’s excellent center performance as Proficient. His obsession is well illustrated through gestures; and his emotional concern for Edda’s well-being is highlighted in a particularly moving sequence as he reads the speech he had prepared for the dinner party but was unable to continue as tears welled up in his eyes. Helping Yücel is Erdal Küçukkömurçu’s effective guest appearance as university administrator – although aware of his position and the future of his institution, he undermines effectiveness with human sentiment, especially when it comes to the futures of Eda and Mahir.
Perhaps the music could be a little less distracting – it forms a depressing backdrop for most scenes – but BENÄ°M DÃœNYAM is still worth watching.
