415. Düğüm Salonu; movie review

DUGUM SALONU
Cert TBA
100 mins
BBFC advice: TBA

It's been quite a while since Mrs W and I have been on our once-regular trips to see Turkish movies in north london.
Therefore, I was delighted when Düğüm Salonu appeared on iTunes, even though I haven't always got on with comedies from the region.
My pleasure was doubled when it became clear that while not a laugh-a-minute, Hakan Algül's film  didn't prompt me to roll my eyes.
This is a different take on the Turkish obsession with marriage and weddings and stars Sahin Irmak who finds himself getting hitched in the hall next door to the nuptials of the real love of his life (Irem Sak).
Their problems begin from the opening scenes when they meet in the garden outside of the wedding halls and share a snog which is seen by the brother of her bridegroom.
From then on, the film becomes a farce surrounding not letting their respective partners know of the stolen kiss.
At the same time, more secrets begin to emerge among the guests at the two receptions.
And, of course, it all comes with the backdrop of crazy families showing off as they try to outdo each other before their guests.
Algül's film will challenge nobody but it is not menat to. This is simply a comedy distraction with a chunk of Turkish culture.
But it despite offering very little new, I found it disarming enough to pass time on a National Express journey to Lomdon.
And, as always, I made me wonder whether we should try a trip to Turkey. It always looks so pretty and warm.

Reasons to watch: Easygoing wedding farce
Reasons to avoid: Offers very little new to the rom-com genre

Laughs: A couple of chuckles
Jumps: None
Vomit: None
Nudity: Yes
Overall rating: 6/10

Director quote - Hakan Algül: "For me art movies are just boring movies. I make comedy films every time and I will forever. "

The big question: Are Turkish people really so obsessed with weddings?

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