The Wild Pear Tree is somewhat like a novel made into a movie– It’s long, it’s philosophical, and it’s mostly composed of conversations a young protagonist has in order to figure out the best way to live. At first glance, the plot can seem rather mundane. But there’s a subtle anger that drives the film, as Sinan tries to make sense of the arbitrary nature of modern society, but can’t seem to find any answers that satisfy him, due to being at a different place with everyone around him, or simply because he just doesn’t know better. Most people would likely understand one or both sides each talk presents. Depending on where you’re at in life, some or more of these conversations may resonate with you, but there’s no denying that writer-director Nuri Bilge Ceylan crafted his characters well, feeling as real and as personal as the people he grew up with in his hometown.
Synopsis
Fresh out of university, a Turkish young man with literary aspirations returns to his home village, and to his father, a debt-ridden man with a gambling problem.
Storyline
After graduating from university, aspiring writer Sinan returns to his hometown, where he finds his father Idris had squandered the family’s fortune due to his debts and gambling addiction.
TLDR
Don’t watch this late at night when you’re thinking about the person that you’ve become. Or maybe do, if only to feel less alone.
What stands out
The score. It adds to the novel-like feeling of the film because of the way it sounds.
