Once Upon a Time

About This Movie

Once Upon a Time is a fascinating glimpse into the lives of a Kurdish family caught in the grind of seasonal labor, moving from Gaziantep to Ankara. The film creates this raw, almost haunting atmosphere that immerses you in the daily struggles and small joys of their life. The pacing feels almost meditative, allowing moments of beauty to emerge amidst the toil. It's the eldest son's romantic entanglement that adds a rich layer to the narrative, contrasting the harsh realities of their existence with the tender, often messy nature of love. The performances are understated yet powerful, grounding the film in authenticity. The way Kazım Öz captures the landscape and the characters’ emotional landscape is distinctive—you're left reflecting on the intersection of duty and desire in a world of obligation.

Kurdish cultural themesSeasonal labor perspectiveRomantic subplot adds complexity