09.03.2025
Text: Elif Yılmaz - Illustration: Naz Tansel
Through the lens of unforgettable characters: The cinema of Zeki Demirkubuz
With films that masterfully explore the complex and shadowy depths of human nature, Zeki Demirkubuz stands as one of the most influential figures shaping cinema in Turkey, inspiring countless directors who followed in his footsteps. The intimate and often haunting stories reflected from dark rooms, homes, and hotels captured by his camera have left such a lasting mark, securing his place not only in the world of arts and culture but also in Turkey’s collective memory.
Zeki Demirkubuz began his cinematic journey as an assistant to esteemed directors, including Zeki Ökten, before crafting a rich filmography with narratives open to layered interpretations, inviting audiences into a world of deep contemplation. His body of work includes milestone films such as Innocence (1997), Fate (2001) and The Confession (2001)—both selected for Cannes’ Un Certain Regard in the same year, a rare international achievement—, the modern classic Destiny (2006)—which delves into the past of Innocence’s characters Uğur and Bekir—, his Notes from Underground adaptation Inside (2012), and Life (2023), Turkey’s official submission for the Academy Awards. These are just some of the remarkable milestones in his expansive filmography.
What makes Demirkubuz’s cinema so compelling? Blending dramatic tension with the philosophical depth of his inspirations such as Dostoevsky, Camus, and Nietzsche, Demirkubuz consistently opens doors to existential and psychological questioning. While his films are rooted in individual psychology, they also serve as mirrors reflecting broader societal themes. His frequent exploration of fatalism, despair, obsession, and tragic coincidences sheds light on the way personal lives are shaped under societal constraints. The characters he brings to life, therefore, become indirect reflections of their socio-cultural surroundings. He is known for transforming individual crises into profound societal critique, with his approach dedicated to exposing the hidden struggles of everyday life while tracing the passions, obsessions, and internal conflicts within seemingly ordinary existences. His work resonates widely, not only because of the strength of his themes but also due to the multi-layered nature of his characters and dialogues.
Aligned with his minimalist narrative style, Demirkubuz’s dialogues are simple and natural, his scenes are stripped of unnecessary details. This pared-down language creates space for the audiences to engage directly with the psychology of his characters. Silence, glances, and body language become powerful tools heightening emotional impact.
His characters, struggling with silent inner turmoil and burdened by injustice are pushed to the margins. Whether through silent resistance or an angry gaze, they burn from within, consumed by the unfairness of the world and the harshness of life. Many of them choose to live behind the walls they built for themselves, abandoning societal status to confront their dark sides, uncover their hidden identities, and pursue their desires. As they navigate these inner conflicts and wrestle with life’s deeper questions, audiences are drawn into their existential dilemmas alongside them. Good and evil do not exist as clear-cut concepts in Demirkubuz’s cinematic universe. His characters are deeply flawed, revealing human weaknesses and contradictions that challenge conventional notions of morality. And yet, hope is never entirely absent; it subtly makes its presence felt.
His characters that leave permanent marks on both cultural memory and individual consciousness, continue to captivate audiences beyond the screen. As the guest of honor at the 21st Akbank Short Film Festival, taking place March 17-27, 2025, Zeki Demirkubuz’s latest film, Life (Hayat), will be screened. Additionally, as part of the festival’s “Experiences” section, he will share personal insights into his creative process, his work and his artistic vision in an exclusive talk. For those eager to explore the milestones of an auteur’s cinematic journey, for dedicated followers of his work, and for aspiring filmmakers seeking inspiration, this is an event not to be missed.