Murderous City

Synopsis

"Murderous City," originally titled "Öldüren Şehir," is a 1953 Turkish crime drama featuring the iconic Ayhan Işık. The film delves into the dark underbelly of Istanbul, portraying a city riddled with crime and moral decay. Centered around complex characters entangled in a web of deceit, betrayal, and violence, the narrative explores themes of justice and survival amidst urban chaos. With its noir undertones and engaging plot, "Murderous City" reflects the socio-political anxieties of 1950s Turkey while delivering a gripping story that combines suspense with emotional depth, making it a significant classic in Turkish cinema history.

Cast

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  Ayhan Işık

  Ali

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  Belgin Doruk

  Selma

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  Muazzez Arçay

  Hatice

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  Settar Körmükçü

  Kaptan

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  Ziya Metin

  Ziya Metin

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  Pola Morelli

  Nesrin

Reviews

"Murderous City" holds a respectable position among classic Turkish films, garnering an IMDb rating of 6.7/10, which indicates generally favorable audience reception. Critics acknowledge the film's strong atmospheric depiction of Istanbul, praising its stylistic noir elements and the compelling performance of Ayhan Işık, considered one of Turkey's cinematic legends. Film scholars have highlighted the movie as a pioneering effort in Turkish crime cinema, noting its contribution to developing genre conventions locally. However, some modern reviewers point out that the pacing may feel slow to contemporary viewers, and certain plot elements adhere to the era's melodramatic tendencies. Overall, "Murderous City" is often recommended for fans of classic crime drama and those interested in Turkish film history. It captures the gritty mood of 1950s urban life effectively, though it may seem dated in style to some. The film continues to be a subject of study for its cultural significance rather than mainstream commercial appeal, illustrating the growth of Turkish cinema during that period.