Navigating teenage angst can be challenging, but when a little romance is thrown in, things get even more complicated. Set in modern-day Istanbul, this romantic comedy centers around high school students and their evolving relationships, combining the themes of growing up, first love, and self-discovery. Directed by Kivanç Baruönü, the film stars Bensu Soral and Halit Özgür Sarı, both bringing a mix of charm and sincerity to their roles. It is a lighthearted film that fits well within the romantic comedy genre, set against the bustling backdrop of city life.
At the heart of the story is Azra, played by Bensu, a young woman who has made a career out of tutoring. However, her job extends beyond academics—she also helps her students with their personal lives, offering guidance on everything from dating to self-confidence. When she takes on a new student, Hande, Azra’s tutoring takes a different turn. Hande is determined to win the heart of a boy she likes, and Azra becomes deeply involved in this mission. As Azra coaches Hande through her romantic pursuits, she finds herself caught in an unexpected romance of her own. The story weaves together the two love stories—one that is carefully planned and another that takes Azra by surprise—while exploring themes of friendship, independence, and love.
One standout aspect of the film is the acting. Bensu plays Azra with a great deal of wit and charm, embodying the role of a confident, modern woman who seems to have all the answers. Her character’s dual role as a tutor and a mentor makes her both relatable and inspiring, especially in scenes where she helps Hande, played by Helin Kandemir, navigate the complexities of teenage life. Bensu’s performance is natural, capturing the struggles of a woman who’s always in control but finds herself falling unexpectedly in love. Halit as Burak, Azra’s love interest, adds a nice balance to the story, playing his role with a laid-back but charismatic energy. The chemistry between Bensu and Halit is palpable, making their scenes together a joy to watch.
In terms of direction, Kivanç keeps the pacing light and energetic, never letting the film drag. The comedic timing, particularly in scenes where Azra tries to juggle her personal and professional life, is well-executed, ensuring that the audience stays engaged throughout. One notable example is the way Kivanç uses split-screen effects to show both Azra and Hande working through their plans simultaneously, adding a playful element to the film’s visual style. The direction also allows for moments of introspection without ever becoming too heavy, ensuring that the film remains true to its rom-com roots.
The film’s cinematography by Erhan Makar enhances its modern, urban feel. Istanbul serves as a vibrant backdrop, with its cityscape often used to reflect the characters’ emotional states. The use of bright colors in outdoor shots and the careful framing of city landmarks help to establish a sense of place, making the setting an integral part of the narrative. The interior shots, especially those of Azra’s chic apartment, highlight her polished, put-together persona. The cinematography complements the film’s upbeat tone, using soft lighting to create an inviting, warm atmosphere, particularly in romantic scenes.
Music plays a subtle but important role in setting the mood for the film. The soundtrack consists of light, upbeat tracks that underscore the comedic elements, with softer, more emotional tunes punctuating the romantic moments. The music blends seamlessly into the background, enhancing the narrative without drawing too much attention to itself. In particular, the use of a recurring musical motif during Azra’s interactions with Burak helps to build the romantic tension between them, adding a layer of warmth to their growing connection.
The costume design is another strong element, with each character’s wardrobe reflecting their personality. Azra’s clothing is fashionable and sharp, showcasing her confidence and professionalism, while Hande’s outfits are more playful and colorful, reflecting her youthful exuberance and naivety. As the story progresses, subtle changes in the characters’ outfits highlight their personal growth. For instance, Azra’s switch to more relaxed, softer clothing later in the film reflects her emotional vulnerability as she starts to open up to Burak.
One area where the film shines is its exploration of female friendship. Azra and Hande’s relationship is central to the narrative, and the way they support each other adds depth to the film. While the romantic storylines are a major focus, the movie also emphasizes the importance of female mentorship and solidarity. This is a refreshing take in a genre often dominated by love triangles and rivalries. The dynamics between the two women are handled with care, showing how mentorship can extend beyond academics into personal growth and self-discovery.
That being said, the film does lean on some predictable rom-com tropes. The storyline involving Hande’s crush follows a fairly traditional arc, and some of the plot twists can be seen coming from a mile away. However, the film’s charm lies in its execution rather than in breaking new ground. The characters are well-developed, and their interactions feel genuine, which helps to elevate the more formulaic aspects of the plot.
Overall, this movie delivers exactly what one would expect from a romantic comedy—a fun, feel-good story with a dash of humor and a healthy dose of romance. While it doesn’t offer anything particularly groundbreaking in terms of plot, the performances, direction, and production elements come together to create an enjoyable and entertaining film. Bensu and Halit’s chemistry keeps the audience invested, and the exploration of female friendship adds a nice touch of depth to the otherwise lighthearted narrative.
In conclusion, this is an easy, breezy watch for fans of the rom-com genre. Its relatable characters, humorous situations, and heartwarming moments make it a great choice for a weekend movie night. If you’re looking for a film that provides both laughs and a little bit of romance, this one is worth a try. It may not reinvent the genre, but it certainly delivers a delightful, charming experience.
