'Ashes' Review: Netflix's disappointing Turkish romantic drama falters in delivering genuine passion and plot
BALAT, ISTANBUL: Netflix's 'Ashes' is a Turkish romantic film directed by Erdem Tepegoz. It starts with an engaging plot introducing Gokce (Funda Eryigit), an upmarket, beautiful woman married to a wealthy publisher named Kenan Ukran (Mehmet Gunsur).
Her discontent with her self-absorbed husband and the monotony of her existence is palpable. Yet, as the story progresses, it becomes evident that Gokce herself is flawed, exhibiting traits not dissimilar to those she despises in her spouse.
Gokce stumbles upon a manuscript titled 'Ashes', promising a tale of romantic intrigue and a mysterious figure altering the fates of those drawn into his orbit.
Disenchanted with her mundane marriage, she embarks on a journey sparked by the book's narrative, leading her to encounter the mysterious carpenter, Metin Ali (Alperen Duymaz).
A passionate affair that doesn't resonate
Gokce's journey engrosses you in the beginning as she explores the local neighborhood of Balat, searching for the unknown. She meets Ali and is immediately smitten by him, though he does not attempt to woo her.
His slight resemblance with the fictional character is enough for her to throw herself at him, and start an extramarital affair without thinking about her long-term marriage for once.
Their passionate affair starts without any flirtation or chemistry which throws the audience off guard. Despite marketing itself as a romantic drama, 'Ashes' falls short of delivering genuine romance.
The chemistry between the leads lacks the passion needed to sell their ill-fated love story. Gokce's attraction to Ali feels superficial, driven more by subconscious desires than genuine affection.
Meanwhile, Ali barely matches the glamorized description of the man in the manuscript.
Erotic moments between the characters are discomforting to watch. Ironically, a film centered on the allure of fictional characters fails to make its own protagonists compelling.
'Ahses' is a poor execution
The film attempts to contrast the rigid, affluent world of Gokce's marriage with the rustic charm of Ali's neighborhood, but the portrayal of Ali's locale feels contrived. The accompanying score and soundtrack, while intended to enhance the narrative, come across as forced.
Visual cues like the symbolic presence of ashes feel forced, as Gokce's psychological state fails to strike a chord with the audience.
While the viewer may become invested in Gokce's journey, a sudden narrative shift in the final act leaves one unimpressed.
'Ashes' is now streaming on Netflix.
