Poetry in Motion by Amber Wilkinson
Turkish filmmaker Yeşim Ustaoğlu has brought a contemplative, beautifully paced drama back to the San Sebastian Film Festival with her latest work, What Remains (Artakalan>. Coming 18 years after her acclaimed film Pandora’s Box> secured the Golden Shell, this new feature delves into the deep, often meandering journey of rediscovering creative identity amidst family obligation and the vast landscapes of Turkey.
The story follows the poetic protagonist, Elif (played by Öykü Karayel), who decides to step away from her experimental musician partner Mehmet (Metin Akdülger) and son Selim (Ali Kayra Kul). In search of a renewed creative spark, they embark on an unhurried road trip to the distant village of Elif’s forebears, seeking solace and inspiration in the familiar earth.
However, this quest for artistic freedom is complicated by unforeseen responsibilities. As the group navigates the scenic routes, they are also drawn into another unexpected journey: tending to Mehmet’s ailing father, İlyas Salman. The narrative masterfully intertwines the search for personal creative mojo with the demands of familial care, unfolding the complexities of human connection under the expansive canvas of the Turkish countryside.
Ustaoglu’s film unfolds at a deliberately slow pace, allowing the audience to absorb the stunning landscapes of Turkey as the protagonists wrestle with their internal and external conflicts. It is a poignant exploration of how art, memory, and family bonds intersect during moments of profound change.
Through this cinematic lens, the film captures not just a road trip, but a deep dive into the soul of creativity, offering a reflective look at what remains when we pause, reflect, and reconnect with our roots.
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