Somersault in a Coffin

Somersault in a Coffin is a poignant Turkish film directed by Dervis Zaim in 1996. This independent, minimalist film is acclaimed for its strong social commentary and its intimate portrayal of poverty, unemployment, and moral decay in the urban landscapes of Istanbul. It stars Ahmet Ugurlu in a gruelling depiction of the everyday life of the homeless and dispossessed, backed by supporting performances from outstanding Turkish actors like Tuncel Kurtiz and Aysen Aydemir.

At the center of the film, we find the character Mahsun (played by Ahmet Ugurlu), a desperate man struggling at the margins of society. Mahsun, who lives on the streets of Istanbul, is a homeless car thief and alcoholic who spends every waking moment attempting to survive. The film maples out Mahsun's daily routine in a non-chronological narrative fashion, showcasing his struggle, showing him theft cars for a spin before deserting them when out of fuel, enjoying momentary shelter, and warmth during Istanbul's wintry weather.

Actor Ahmet Ugurlu delivers a phenomenal performance as Mahsun, a role which garnered him well-deserved awards and accolades. Ugurlu's portrayal of this character is so authentic, candid, and profound, it not only showcases the harsh realities of homelessness but also evokes deep sentiments within viewers. However, despite his circumstances, Mahsun bears the harsh treatment meted to him with solid resilience, constantly smiling and cracking jokes even as he makes his living by stealing cars.

Tuncel Kurtiz and Aysem Aydemir lend reliable support with their nuanced performances. Kurtiz portrays the nameless merchant who occasionally helps Mahsun, giving a multifaceted portrayal of a character balancing his sympathy for the protagonist with concern for his business in the ruthless streets of Istanbul. Aydemir imparts credibility to her character who unwittingly gets involved in Mahsun's life, demonstrating her acting prowess and the wide range of emotions she can depict.

Directed by Dervis Zaim, who also wrote the screenplay, Somersault in a Coffin is minimalistic cinema at its best. The use of non-professional actors, combined with innovative storytelling techniques, underline the authenticity of the narrative and enhance the impact of the film. Despite the grim subject matter, Zaim is able to inject moments of humour and humanity that keep the viewers engaged. His approach not only highlights the hardships experienced by the underprivileged sectors of society, but it also speaks about human resilience, optimism, and the desperate need to survive against all odds.

The cinematography by Mustafa Mustafaoğlu beautifully captures the raw and gritty milieu of Istanbul's grimy streets where Mahsun and others like him live their lives. The city of Istanbul itself is so clearly laid out, it almost becomes a character in the story—grey, backdrop that is both unforgiving and indifferent.

Is there humanity amidst chaos? Can we find hope in the bleakest of conditions? Somersault in a Coffin addresses these questions and more as it takes you on a journey in the life of a man whom society has forgotten. Though bleak and desolate in its overarching narrative, it is, however, not void of heart-warming humanity or hope.

This film is a must-watch for those seeking cinema that delves deep into societal norms, the dispossessed, and the human condition. The visceral impact of Somersault in a Coffin goes beyond its running time and stays with you, forcing you to re-examine notions of life and survival in a city filled with stark contrasts. This masterpiece is not just a film; it is an experience that leaves you moved and contemplative long after the credits roll. Indeed, Somersault in a Coffin stands as a cinematic masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling and presents a deeply emotive and human narrative to its audiences.