Clair Obscur (Movie)

Title — Clair Obscur
Available on — Netflix
Production Country — Turkey, France, Germany, Poland
Release Date — 2016
While examining a young woman who has just murdered her husband and mother-in-law, a psychiatrist begins to reflect on her own marriage.

🪶 Story & Synopsis

“Clair Obscur” is a poignant Turkish drama directed by Yesim Ustaoglu, known for her provocative and politically charged films. The movie delves into the lives of two women, Sehnaz, a psychiatrist in a liberal relationship, and Elmas, a young wife trapped in a patriarchal society.

Sehnaz, on the surface, appears to lead a progressive life, but struggles with personal turmoil. Meanwhile, Elmas is a victim of oppressive traditions, forced into marriage and motherhood at a young age, leading to a breakdown that brings her to Sehnaz for help.

The film serves as a character study, exploring themes of female sexuality, societal expectations, and the clash between modernity and tradition in Turkish culture. Ustaoglu’s nuanced approach presents a powerful vision of women in crisis, making “Clair Obscur” a compelling and thought-provoking watch for audiences.

🧑 Cast & Crew

Funda Eryiğit, Ecem Uzun, Mehmet Kurtulus, Okan Yalabik, Serkan Keskin, Sema Poyraz

Actor Role
Funda Eryiğit Chehnaz
Ecem Uzun Elmas
Mehmet Kurtuluş Cem
Okan Yalabık Umut
Serkan Keskin Koca
Metin Akdülger Boy at the Party
Sema Poyraz Mother-in-Law
Cansu Dinçer Asiye

💬 Reviews and feedback

Imagine a movie as confusing as trying to assemble IKEA furniture without instructions, where the pieces just don’t seem to fit together, leaving you with a sense of bewilderment and a few extra screws. Welcome to the world of “Clair Obscur,” a film that has its audience scratching their heads in contemplation, wondering if they missed a crucial scene or if the director simply decided to skip coherence altogether.

Despite the tangled narrative threads that never quite unravel, there are shining lights in this cinematic labyrinth. The lead actresses deliver performances that are nothing short of spectacular, pulling you into their characters’ emotional turmoil with such depth and authenticity that you almost forget about the perplexing storyline swirling around them.

Set against the backdrop of Turkish traditions and modernity clashing like titans in a mythological battle, “Clair Obscur” dives into the lives of two women who, despite their seemingly opposite worlds, find themselves entwined in unexpected ways. One struggles against the chains of oppressive customs while the other dances freely in the winds of contemporary liberation.

The heart of this film beats with the raw emotions portrayed by its stars. Ecum Uzun’s portrayal is hauntingly real, drawing viewers into a world of trauma and resilience with every glance and gesture. The chemistry between the actresses is palpable, breathing life into a story that often feels like it’s lost in its own murky depths.

Director Yeşim Ustaoğlu weaves a tapestry of contrasts and complexities, painting a picture of women caught in the throes of loveless relationships and societal expectations. The film is less about a linear plot and more about delving deep into the psyches of its characters, peeling back layers to reveal vulnerabilities and strengths in equal measure.

From hospital hallways to sunlit coastlines, “Clair Obscur” is a visual treat for those who appreciate cinematography that speaks volumes without uttering a word. Each frame is carefully crafted, capturing moments of intimacy and chaos with equal finesse.

  • Acting and Characters: The performances steal the show, elevating an otherwise convoluted narrative into something worth watching. The lead actresses shine brightly amidst the murky storytelling waters.
  • Direction: Yeşim Ustaoğlu’s direction navigates through themes of tradition versus modernity with grace, allowing her actors to shine while keeping the audience engaged despite the narrative hiccups.
  • Cinematography: The visuals paint a vivid picture of contrasting worlds colliding, offering viewers glimpses into lives filled with both despair and hope.

Binge-watching Tip: If you find yourself lost in the labyrinthine plot twists, focus on the performances. Let yourself be carried away by the emotional rollercoaster crafted by talented actors who breathe life into their characters with every scene.

“Clair Obscur” may leave you feeling like you’ve just stepped off a rollercoaster ride without quite knowing how you got there. It’s an experience that challenges your perception of storytelling while offering moments of raw authenticity that linger long after the credits roll.

Sometimes movies are not about neatly tied endings or clear-cut resolutions; they’re about diving headfirst into chaos and finding beauty in unexpected places. And “Clair Obscur” does just that—it invites you to embrace uncertainty and complexity while basking in the glow of exceptional performances.

Rating: 7/10

Pros Cons
Lead actresses’ wonderful performances Narrative is a garbled mess
Powerful vision of women in crisis Disturbingly violent scene
Emotional performances of the two stars Lack of clear plot
Insightful character study Characters trapped in loveless relationships

Feedback

  • Clair Obscur (2016) - IMDb

    SPONSORED

    Clair Obscur

    Original title: Tereddüt

    • 2016
    • 1h 45m

    Two Turkish women, one oppressed by sexist traditions and one liberated by modern mores, have more in common than it would seem.Two Turkish women, one oppressed by sexist traditions and one liberated by modern mores, have more in common than it would seem.Two Turkish women, one oppressed by sexist traditions and one liberated by modern mores, have more in common than it would seem.

    • Awards
      • 9 wins & 13 nominations

    SPONSORED

  • Clair Obscur - Wikipedia

    Clair Obscur

    Clair Obscur
    Directed by Yeşim Ustaoğlu
    Written by Yeşim Ustaoğlu
    Produced by
    • Titus Kreyenberg
    • Yeşim Ustaoğlu
    • Marianne Slot
    • Klaudia Smieja
    • Eliza Oczkowska
    Starring
    Cinematography Michael Hammon
    Edited by
    Music by Antoni Komasa-Lazarkiewicz

    Productioncompanies

    • Unafilm
    • Ustaoglu Film
    • Slot Machine
    • in association with Aeroplan Film

    Release date

  • 'Clair Obscur': Film Review | TIFF 2016 - The Hollywood Reporter

    The two sides of Turkish society, modern and traditional, both repress women inClair Obscur, a drama in which two women from completely different backgrounds confront their need for love and self-determination. Made with the impressive visual mastery writer-director Yesim Ustaoglu is known for, it happily feels a bit less stretched-out and not so cluttered with arty, time-stopping shots that are an end in themselves in some of her movies. The story should have special appeal for female viewers who will sense the honesty of the protags as they reveal their deepest, most intimate feelings about their relationships and sex lives. That these matters are discussed so openly and frankly in a Turkish context, and include explicit sex scenes, seems surprisingly radical in itself. The current wave of news interest in Turkey may also help the Beta Cinema release find Western audiences.

  • Clair Obscur streaming: where to watch movie online? - JustWatch

    Clair Obscur streaming: where to watch online?

    Currently you are able to watch “Clair Obscur” streaming on Netflix, Netflix basic with Ads.Watch NowCCHD100min – TurkishSubscription$6.99 / monthCCHD100min – TurkishSubscription$15.49 / monthWatch similar movies on Apple TV+ for free7 Days FreeThen $9.99 / monthDidn’t find what you were looking for?Let us notify you once it becomes available on more servicesSomething wrong? Let us know!Currently you are able to watch “Clair Obscur” streaming on Netflix, Netflix basic with Ads.

⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)

In the movie “Clair Obscur,” directed by Yesim Ustaoglu, the narrative delves into the contrasting facets of Turkish society, showcasing the struggles faced by women from diverse backgrounds. The film revolves around the lives of two women, Elmas and Chehnaz, who grapple with the societal expectations and constraints imposed on them.

Elmas, portrayed by Ecem Uzun, is an eighteen-year-old woman trapped in a nightmarish existence. She is essentially sold off to an older husband, played by Serkan Keskin, who subjects her to degrading tasks like cleaning his house and administering insulin shots to her mother-in-law. Elmas is forced to endure nightly assaults, leading to a gradual erosion of her identity and sanity.

On the other hand, Chehnaz, a modern and attractive woman played by another actress, resides in a trendy neighborhood in Istanbul with her husband Cem. Chehnaz is assigned to a remote seaside town for a two-year stint at a public hospital as part of her psychiatric training. The juxtaposition of Chehnaz’s urban, contemporary life with Elmas’ oppressive rural existence highlights the stark contrasts prevalent in Turkish society.

The film delves into themes of female sexuality, self-determination, and the clash between traditional values and personal desires. Yesim Ustaoglu’s directorial style, known for its visual prowess, portrays the emotional turmoil and intimate struggles of the protagonists with honesty and depth. The inclusion of explicit sex scenes and candid discussions about relationships sets a bold and radical tone within the Turkish cinematic landscape.

Ustaoglu’s previous works, like “The Trace” and “Journey to the Sun,” have tackled political and ethnic repression in Turkey, showcasing her penchant for controversial and socially relevant storytelling. “Clair Obscur” continues this trend by exploring the challenges faced by women in a conservative society, presenting a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences, particularly women navigating similar conflicts.

The cinematography by Michael Hammon captures the rugged beauty of the Turkish landscape, providing a visual backdrop that complements the emotional depth of the characters. The film’s focus on the internal struggles of Elmas and Chehnaz, rather than a linear plot, offers a nuanced character study that invites viewers to contemplate the complexities of female experiences in a patriarchal society.

Overall, “Clair Obscur” serves as a poignant exploration of female agency, resilience, and the enduring quest for personal liberation within the confines of societal expectations. The film’s unflinching portrayal of intimate struggles and the clash between modernity and tradition makes it a compelling cinematic experience that sheds light on the multifaceted lives of women in contemporary Turkey.

👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating

TV-MA

Age Rating:

Clair Obscur is a Turkish drama film that delves into mature themes and intense emotional situations. Due to its depiction of sensitive topics, this movie is recommended for viewers aged 18 and above.

Parental Guide:

Parents should be aware that Clair Obscur contains scenes that may not be suitable for younger audiences. The film includes themes of sexual problems, forced marriage, trauma, and emotional distress.

Sex/Nudity: The movie portrays sexual problems between the main characters, but there are no explicit sexual scenes shown.

Violence/Gore: There are depictions of emotional turmoil, trauma, and distressing situations, including a forced marriage and its consequences.

Profanity: The film contains mature language and themes that may not be suitable for children.

Overall, Clair Obscur is a thought-provoking drama that addresses complex issues, but it may be distressing for younger viewers due to its intense themes.

📺 Streaming and where to watch

streaming service extra information
Netflix Clair Obscur is available for streaming on Netflix with subscription.

❝ Quotes and Cult

  • Two Turkish women, one oppressed by sexist traditions and one liberated by modern mores, have more in common than it would seem.
  • The contrasting lives of two women provide a stark insight into the turmoil of modern Turkey in Clair Obscur (Tereddut). Whether ostensibly liberated or emphatically oppressed, the women both inhabit a society where men dominate and women suffer.

🤖Clair Obscur Reddit Talks

Clair Obscur (2016) is a film that explores the complexities of female relationships, particularly those that are trapped in lovelessness. The film follows the stories of two women from different backgrounds who find common ground in their shared experiences of pain and isolation.

One of the main themes discussed in the Reddit discussions is the film’s portrayal of homosexuality and transgender identity. Commenters praised the film for its sensitive and nuanced depiction of these topics, which they felt was both realistic and respectful.

Another topic of discussion was the film’s use of symbolism and allegory. Many commenters noted the film’s rich visual language and its use of dreamlike imagery to explore the characters’ inner lives. They felt that this added a layer of depth and complexity to the film’s narrative.

However, some commenters also expressed criticism of the film. Some felt that the film was too slow-paced and that it lacked a clear narrative focus. Others felt that the film’s ending was too ambiguous and that it left too many unanswered questions.

Overall, the Reddit discussions of Clair Obscur (2016) were generally positive. Commenters praised the film for its strong performances, its sensitive portrayal of LGBTQ+ issues, and its use of symbolism and allegory. However, some commenters also expressed criticism of the film’s pacing and its ambiguous ending.

Here are some specific examples of the topics discussed in the Reddit discussions:

  • The film’s portrayal of homosexuality and transgender identity.
  • The film’s use of symbolism and allegory.
  • The film’s pacing.
  • The film’s ending.

Overall, the Reddit discussions of Clair Obscur (2016) provide a valuable insight into the different ways that people have interpreted and responded to the film. They also highlight the film’s strengths and weaknesses, and they offer a glimpse into the ongoing debate about the film’s meaning and significance.

Top discussions

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Clair Obscur effect?

Clair-obscur effects are revealed when light and shadow interact with the Moon’s craters and other features to trick the eye into seeing something that isn’t really there.

What is the meaning of Clair Obscure?

1. the artistic distribution of light and dark masses in a picture. 2. monochrome painting using light and dark only, as in grisaille. – Collins English Dictionary.

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