Let the Hypnotic, Caustic Beauty of About Dry Grasses Consume You

Thought-Provoking Dialogues and Challenging Perspectives

About Dry Grasses features a particularly captivating conversation between the protagonist, Samet, and another educator named Nuray. They discuss the importance of political action, with Nuray advocating for the pursuit of utopian ideals despite the challenges. Samet, on the other hand, argues that collective ideals are counterproductive and cites a proverb: ‘If you travel in a herd, all you’ll see are asses.’ This heated debate showcases Ceylan’s ability to create compelling and thought-provoking dialogues that challenge viewers’ perspectives.

Ceylan’s caustic and scathing portrayal of Samet is tempered by his deep understanding and empathy for his characters. Like the Russian writers he admires, Ceylan is a scathing humanist, allowing his characters to condemn themselves through their actions.

Contradictions and Anxieties: Perception and Understanding

About Dry Grasses explores the contradictions within its protagonist, Samet. He harbors contempt for the place and its people, yearning to be transferred to Istanbul. Paradoxically, he is also a talented photographer, capturing the beauty of the people and landscapes around him. This contradiction reflects Ceylan’s own anxieties and raises questions about perception and understanding.

Set in a rugged and potentially violent landscape, About Dry Grasses highlights the scars of a turbulent history. Stories of disappearances and murders serve as reminders of the political tensions that have shaped the region. Samet, detached from politics, tries to maintain a neutral stance, engaging with both aspiring guerillas and military figures. However, his desire to be liked and accepted leads him down a destructive path, revealing the dark side of his seemingly unassuming character.

A Cinematic Experience that Lingers

Ceylan’s About Dry Grasses is a hypnotic and thought-provoking film that showcases his mastery as a filmmaker. With its deliberate pacing, weighty subjects, and melancholic characters, it is a cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

The film concludes with a beautifully lyrical reverie, an imagined letter from Samet that expresses frustration, tenderness, hope, heartache, and resignation. Yet, it is a letter that will never be written, leaving unresolved emotions lingering in the air. Through this, Ceylan invites viewers to empathize with the characters and reflect on their own experiences.