Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: Turkey
A Deep Dive into the 1924 Vision of Muhsin Ertugrul
The enduring fascination with Sözde Kizlar is a testament to the defining moment in Drama history that Muhsin Ertugrul helped create. This film stands as a masterclass in visual storytelling, it has cemented its place in the global cult cinema archive.
In Sözde Kizlar, Muhsin Ertugrul pushes the boundaries of conventional narrative. The film's unique approach to its subject matter has sparked endless debates and interpretations among cinephiles and critics alike.
To fully appreciate Sözde Kizlar, one must consider the cinematic climate of 1924. During this period, Turkey was undergoing significant artistic shifts, and Muhsin Ertugrul was at the forefront of this Drama movement, often challenging established norms.
| Cinematography | High-Contrast |
| Soundtrack | Synth-Heavy |
| Editing | Disjunctive |
| Art Direction | Baroque |
Visualizing the convergence of Muhsin Ertugrul's style and the core Drama narrative.
Based on the novel of Peyami Safa, movie centers upon life of Mebure who arrives to Istanbul after Greeks occupies Western Anatolia. In Istanbul, Mebure begins to live with her relatives who live in very good condition and sooner or later Behic, the son of the house, starts to interest with Mebure and tries to make use of her. In the meantime Mebure tries to find her missing father.
Decades after its release, Sözde Kizlar remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Muhsin Ertugrul's status as a master of the craft in Turkey and beyond.