I have seen this film twice now, and both times felt enchanted at the end. I was impressed by the fact that while in Italy, colors are bright and edges are sharp but life was just dull. In Turkey, the screen was inundated by drab colors, worn edges and crumbling buildings, but the humble people and surroundings were full of life.
While never afraid of subtitles, I felt their use was enlightening in this case. I was able to put myself in the main character's shoes in not understanding everything being said (well, I could read, but still...) The use of what I perceived to be 'broken Italian' also added to the mood.
The letters being read has been done before and I expected it to be a foreshadowing of things to come but I didn't expect the way it was carried out.
As for the sexuality mentioned in other reviews, I think I would call it sensuality, and it didn't always involve naked bodies.
All in all, this was a great movie. I have also added Istanbul to my list of cities I must visit before I die.
While never afraid of subtitles, I felt their use was enlightening in this case. I was able to put myself in the main character's shoes in not understanding everything being said (well, I could read, but still...) The use of what I perceived to be 'broken Italian' also added to the mood.
The letters being read has been done before and I expected it to be a foreshadowing of things to come but I didn't expect the way it was carried out.
As for the sexuality mentioned in other reviews, I think I would call it sensuality, and it didn't always involve naked bodies.
All in all, this was a great movie. I have also added Istanbul to my list of cities I must visit before I die.