Cenneti Beklerken

The director Dervis Zaim used a different technique, combining the modern cinema with an ancient art Miniature, never consists of light, shadow, volume and perspective, to explain the unknown situation in 17th century of Ottoman Empire. While watching the movie every scene seemed as a part of art in terms of color, costumes, light and impression. The audience may either find some clues about the system of the Empire such as life style, architecture, desires of Sultan's son to govern the empire and janissaries which are peculiar to Ottomans, or feel philosophical notions which are hidden behind abstract concepts like dreams, life, death, art and heaven. The sentence of Vizier (Vezir) "Both justice and beauty are necessary for Universe" is the sentence which can be counted as favorite quote of movie.

Dervis Zaim, is an intelligent Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus born director who has been doing some very important films without any great notice. His first feature "Tabutta Rovasata" was highly rewarded in international festivals, then the "Filler ve Cimen" was a brave attempt to criticise one of the most politically embarrassing scandals in Turkish history.

In Filler ve Cimen, Zaim had used the tile art of old Turkish tradition and now with Cenneti Beklerken, he has the art of miniature at the center of his plot. He says that this is for a reason: "To be able to have a cinema with a backbone, Turkish movies has to feed from the traditional arts of its history, tradition." Well, this is not Dervis Zaim at his best, the story is not very inspiring, has some flaw problems but the miniature animations are perfect. The film is technically surprising (except some 2D backgrounds). Actors are more than acceptable maybe except young Melisa Sozen.

All in all, Cenneti Beklerken is a must for anyone who wonders what Turkish cinema in 21st century is about. Zaim, is one of the most important Turkish film-makers around. He has the ability and heart to show that Turkish culture HAS a "Great Tradition" and he has the "Individual Talent" necessary...

Dervis Zaim unlike many Turkish directors has yet only four movies made, which all four are totally different projects, but this one "Cenneti Beklerken" ( Waiting for Heaven ) is a masterpiece in every description.

The movie tells about a fictional story in the 17th century Ottoman Empire which emphasizes the conflicts between the eastern & western cultures as well as the naive situations of the empire.

Since drawing pictures are almost prohibited in the Muslim tradition and only simplistic figurative miniatures are permitted to describe the events of the era, the main character Eflatun struggles in between having a western origin but an Ottoman education and the hard realities of life.

The long term studied story & scenario also written by Dervis Zaim reflects to the silver screen with a beautiful graphic work combining the story & the scenes. The art work is supported by mirror reflections of flashbacks and a totally carefully captured historical background.

The casting is superb where you cannot imagine they're fictional characters but the original elements of the story. The oriental taste of soundtrack is also something you'll enjoy.

Almost a four-five years' work is simply put into a screen for your joy & sorrow without any hesitation.

I hope the movie gets a remarkable attention of cinema lovers and I'm sure it'll be a classic for the next generations.

Thanks, Dervis Zaim...

"Waiting for Heaven" (Cenneti Beklerken), directed by Dervish Zaim, is a visually captivating and intellectually stimulating Turkish film that premiered in 2006. Set against the backdrop of the 17th century Ottoman Empire, the story follows Eflatun, a miniaturist commissioned to create a watercolor portrait of a rebellious leader in a Western style, which will help confirm the leader's identity. As Eflatun undertakes this task, he finds himself caught in a complex web of political intrigue and personal conflicts.

The film excels in immersing viewers in a richly textured historical environment, beautifully showcasing the essence of the Ottoman period through its breathtaking cinematography and careful production design. Zaim's meticulous attention to detail shines through in every scene, from the elaborate costumes to the exquisite artwork that Eflatun produces.

Yet, "Waiting for Heaven" is more than just a visual delight; it explores profound themes of faith, artistry, and the search for life's meaning. Eflatun's journey is both a physical and symbolic one, as he confronts his beliefs and the societal pressures that challenge his moral compass. Having lost his wife and children, he encounters an enslaved woman with whom he falls in love. The film prompts viewers to reflect on the role of religion in society and the individual's duty to maintain their principles amidst challenges.

The performances are compelling, particularly Serhat Tutumluer's portrayal of Eflatun, which is both nuanced and reflective. While some may find the pacing slow, those who enjoy a contemplative and philosophical narrative will appreciate the depth of "Waiting for Heaven."

This thought-provoking film provides a distinctive viewpoint on a captivating historical era, celebrating the power of art and the timeless human quest for truth and enlightenment.

Most people who watched the movie sought historical truth in the script.

However, this movie is a 'fairytale' fiction.

Examining a work in such detail sometimes causes the things it tells to go unnoticed.