Exploring "Dilsiz": A Cinematic Journey into Islamic Calligraphy and Transformation

Goldframer

16 Jul 2024 — 2 min read

In the realm of Turkish cinema, "Dilsiz" emerges as a compelling narrative that intricately weaves the elements of tradition, spiritual quest, and personal transformation. Directed by Murat Pay, this cinematic endeavor marks his venture into the feature-length format, following a repertoire of documentaries and short films. The film’s journey from conception to realization spans over a meticulous two-year period dedicated to scriptwriting, underpinned by Pay’s deep immersion into the art of calligraphy, signifying his reverence for traditional arts and their place in contemporary storytelling.

(Hoşça bak zâtına kim zübde-i âlemsin sen / Merdüm-i dîde-i ekvân olan âdemsin sen)

The story revolves around Sami, a painter disconnected from his essence, who embarks on a transformative journey led by the memories of his grandmother and a parrot named Dilsiz, embodying the spirit of the legendary Hüdhüd. This encounter not only heralds Sami's embarkation into the spiritual and artistic dimensions of calligraphy but also mirrors his introspective quest towards self-awareness and existential purpose, poetically framed by the couplet "Take good care of yourself, for you are the quintessence of the realm / You are the human, the pupil of the cosmos." serving as a narrative and symbolic cornerstone of the film.

The film's thematic essence and Pay’s directorial vision are deeply entrenched in the philosophy of engaging with Islamic arts as living entities, not relics of the past. This philosophy extends beyond the screenplay, influencing the selection of music that echoes classical Turkish poetry, enriching the film's atmosphere with an aura of nostalgia and depth. Pay’s narrative strategy meticulously integrates these elements, offering a cinematic experience that transcends mere visual storytelling, inviting the audience into a reflective exploration of heritage, art, and the continuous journey of self-discovery.

In his dialogue with Islamic arts and the nuanced portrayal of characters navigating their personal transformations, Pay not only pays homage to the richness of Turkish cultural heritage but also poses poignant inquiries into the relevance and continuity of this heritage in the modern psyche. "Dilsiz" stands as a testament to the potential of cinema as a medium to bridge temporal divides, rekindling a dialogue with the past not as a distant echo but as a living, breathing influence on the present and future.

Murat Pay’s "Dilsiz" is a reminder of the enduring power of Islamic arts and narratives in shaping contemporary identities and perspectives. Through Sami’s journey, the film encapsulates the essence of introspection, the beauty of Islamic arts, and the timeless pursuit of meaning, offering a poignant reflection on the intersections between tradition and personal evolution within the tapestry of Turkish cinema.

You can watch the trailer here.