Yalan

Synopsis

Yalan, a 1976 Turkish drama directed by and starring Yalçın Gülhan, delves deeply into the complex web of deceit and human relationships. Set against the backdrop of 1970s Turkey, the film explores how a single lie can unravel lives, challenging the notions of trust, loyalty, and the consequences of dishonesty. Through its richly drawn characters and emotionally charged narrative, Yalan reflects on societal tensions, personal conflicts, and the fragile nature of truth. The movie’s poignant storytelling and Gülhan’s compelling performance offer a window into the moral dilemmas faced by individuals when confronted with betrayal and truth.

Cast

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  Yalçın Gülhan

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  Figen Han

• 

  Erol Taş

  Cemil

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  Atıf Kaptan

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  İhsan Baysal

• 

  Nizam Ergüden

Reviews

While Yalan remains a relatively obscure gem in the canon of 1970s Turkish cinema, it has received mixed to positive reviews from the few critics familiar with its content. IMDb users have rated the film around a modest 6.3/10, praising Yalçın Gülhan's intense performance and the atmospheric depiction of the era. The narrative’s slow pacing and occasional melodramatic moments have been pointed out as drawbacks, yet many appreciate the film’s authentic portrayal of societal themes and moral complexity. Turkish cinema scholars often highlight Yalan for its raw emotional depth and for contributing to the evolving narrative style of the period. Rotten Tomatoes does not have an official rating due to the film’s limited international release, but contemporary retrospectives by film historians commend its thoughtful approach to the consequences of lies within a tightly knit community. Some reviewers note that the film's storytelling can feel dated to modern audiences but acknowledge its value as a cultural artifact reflecting the socio-political ambiance of 1970s Turkey.