‘Ashes’ (2024) Netflix Movie Review - Love in the Shadows

"Ashes," a cinematic concoction of love, wealth, and carpentry, left me grappling with a dual sense of awe and mild perplexity during its 1-hour 40-minute escapade. Directed by Erdem Tepegöz and penned by Erdi Isik, this Turkish drama-romance unfolds the story of Gokce (Funda Eryigit), a wealthy woman whose heartstrings find themselves entangled with the mysterious carpenter, Metin Ali (Alperen Duymaz).

Let's begin with the positives, where "Ashes" manages to shine as brightly as a supernova in a galaxy of romantic dramas. Director Tepegöz displays a keen eye for visual storytelling, offering us a tapestry of scenes that swing between dreamlike aesthetics and the gritty reality of life. The cinematography, akin to a masterfully conducted symphony, heightens the emotional nuances of the plot. The play with light and composition isn't just visually appealing but plays a crucial role in unraveling the intricacies of the characters and their tumultuous relationships.

Funda Eryigit, as Gokce, deserves a standing ovation for her portrayal of a wealthy woman ensnared in the tantalizing grip of forbidden love. Her performance is a mesmerizing dance of emotions, capturing the struggle between societal expectations and the irresistible pull of passion. Eryigit's subtle expressions become a language of their own, translating the complex layers of Gokce's character with finesse. She weaves a captivating narrative, making Gokce a character that resonates long after the credits roll.

Alperen Duymaz, the mysterious carpenter, Metin Ali, adds a delightful enigma to the plot. His on-screen presence is magnetic, and the chemistry with Eryigit is palpable. The love story that unfolds between them is like a finely tuned melody, hitting the right notes and leaving the audience in a state of quiet admiration.

However, the film, for all its brilliance, stumbles on a few pebbles scattered across its narrative path. The plot, promising as it may be, seems to tiptoe on familiar grounds of forbidden love and societal expectations. It's a tale we've seen painted on the canvas of cinema multiple times, and "Ashes" struggles to bring a fresh stroke to this age-old narrative. The predictability becomes a looming cloud, casting a shadow on moments that could have soared to greater heights with a touch of unpredictability.

As we navigate the labyrinth of Gokce and Metin Ali's love affair, the film occasionally leans on clichéd tropes that threaten to dampen the impact of its emotional crescendos. The 'forbidden love' theme, while timeless, yearns for a new angle, a twist that can jolt the audience out of their familiarity-induced comfort zones. It's akin to sipping a cup of tea expecting a burst of exotic flavors, only to find it's the same old chamomile.

Despite its stumble on the road less traveled, "Ashes" manages to redeem itself through moments of genuine humor sprinkled throughout the narrative. The witty dialogues and situational comedy provide a breath of fresh air, a reminder that even in the depths of heart-wrenching love stories, laughter can be the unexpected savior. The humor, delivered with impeccable timing by the cast, serves as a delightful counterbalance to the weighty emotional undertones.

In conclusion, "Ashes" stands as a testament to the delicate dance of love and societal expectations, with moments of brilliance that rival the glow of a shooting star. Director Tepegöz and the cast, especially Eryigit and Duymaz, deserve applause for bringing a familiar tale to life with a touch of elegance and humor. However, the film's hesitation to break free from the shackles of clichés and explore uncharted territories leaves it hovering in the realm of 'good' rather than 'exceptional.' It's a cinematic journey worth taking, but one that might leave you yearning for a few more twists in the plot's winding road.

Final Score - [6/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
Follow @AnjaliS54769166 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times