When We Leave

Synopsis

When We Leave (Die Fremde) is a compelling 2010 German drama directed by Feo Aladag, starring Sibel Kekilli in a powerful lead role. The film explores the struggles of Umay, a young Turkish-German woman who escapes an abusive marriage in Istanbul and returns to her strict family in Berlin. Faced with cultural expectations and tensions between traditional values and her desire for independence, Umay fights to forge a new path for herself and her son. The movie sensitively portrays issues of domestic violence, integration, and identity, delivering an emotionally rich narrative about courage, freedom, and the challenges faced by women caught between two cultures.

Cast

• 

  Sibel Kekilli

  Umay

• 

  Florian Lukas

  Stipe

• Nizam Schiller

  Cem

• 

  Derya Alabora

  Halyme

• 

  Settar Tanrıöğen

  Kader

• 

  Tamer Yiğit

  Mehmet

Reviews

When We Leave received generally positive reviews from critics for its sensitive handling of difficult themes and strong performances, particularly by Sibel Kekilli. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 72% approval rating, with many praising its emotional depth and social relevance. The site's consensus notes how the movie "boldly confronts cultural taboos while highlighting the resilience of a woman seeking freedom." IMDb users rate it 7.5/10, reflecting overall appreciation for the storytelling and acting. Metacritic scores the film at 65/100, indicating generally favorable reviews. Critics from major outlets commended the film's realistic portrayal of domestic violence and cultural conflicts, though some noted that its pacing could be slow at times. Variety described it as "a poignant look at identity and gender roles that resonates beyond its specific cultural context," while The Guardian highlighted Kekilli's "nuanced performance that conveys strength and vulnerability." In sum, When We Leave is recognized for its earnest narrative and its spotlight on issues rarely addressed in mainstream cinema, making it an engaging but sometimes heavy watch.