A desperate aunt searches for her trans niece in this emotionally engaging tale of regret.
Retired Georgian teacher Lia (Arabuli) journeys to Istanbul in search of her estranged niece, Tekla, a trans woman. Accompanying Lia is Achi (Kankava), a gormless and wide-eyed ex-student of Lia's who claims to know Tekla's address and offers to be an interpreter. Achi knows some English but no Turkish and he most likely really just wants to see Istanbul. As we follow Lia and Achi navigating the bustling city, questioning trans sex workers and bickering along the way, we're introduced to other characters - a couple of street kids and a rights activist, a trans woman, played by Deniz Dumanli. Could this woman be Tekla?
Istanbul feels alive and organic, full of character and cats, and while the plot sometimes moves at a frustratingly slow pace, the film overall manages to hold our attention thanks to the three leads, the fish-out-of-water odd couple that are Lia and Achi, and the vibrant confidence from Dumanli's justice warrior. These characters are brought to life under the exceptional direction of Levan Akin.
Here, three excellent performances show three very different types of humanity, anchored by an outstanding and heart-breaking turn from Mzia Arabuli. Also, a special mention for the young actors playing the musical street kids, full of wild abandon and spark.
As the film progresses, we begin to understand more of Lia's situation. Is she looking for Tekla to help her, or because she's seeking something in the way of forgiveness?
Beautifully poignant with a subtle message of acceptance.
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