The Neighborhood | Film Screening | A Story of Istanbul

The film will be screened at Rio Cinema in London with English subtitles on 15 February at 1PM. Don’t miss the chance to experience this compelling and thought-provoking story on the big screen. Visit https://mahallefilm.com/en/intro-en/ for more information!

“The Neighborhood” is a powerful drama that has been banned in Turkey for its bold portrayal of social struggles and its critique of systemic corruption. Set in present-day Istanbul, the film takes place in a poor yet picturesque neighborhood, surrounded by lush gardens and towering trees, standing at the heart of a fierce battle over real estate and power. On one side, the Bosphorus offers a serene view, while on the other, the bright lights of the city’s skyscrapers loom ominously. A giant construction company, international financiers, and their collaborators set their sights on the neighborhood’s prime location, prepared to stop at nothing to seize control.

Amidst the encroaching threat, a group of young residents, aware of the impending danger, come together in a fierce fight to protect their home. As they struggle against a system stacked against them, they are confronted with betrayal, violence, and a web of corruption. At the heart of this turmoil is the love story of Rüstem and Aslı, whose once-dreamy wedding plans become entangled in the chaos that surrounds them. For Aslı, the wedding has been her most cherished dream, but she never anticipated the events that would unfold on the eve of her big day.

“The Neighborhood” is a tale of resistance, love, and creativity. It follows the extraordinary efforts of ordinary people, especially the youth of the community, as they explore inventive ways to fight back against a system that seeks to erase their existence. The film also delves into the dark undercurrents of society, including suspicious deaths, corrupt dealings, and a growing drug epidemic.

Despite its poignant message and deep social relevance, “The Neighborhood” has been banned in Turkey, reflecting the country’s broader struggles with freedom of expression and its resistance to narratives that challenge the status quo. It’s a story of courage and resilience, a stark portrayal of a community caught between the pressures of urban development and the fight to preserve their way of life.

At a special event, director İnan Altın and actor Selma Altın—both members of the renowned Turkish band Grup Yorum, whose music has long symbolised resistance and protest—will attend the screening. Their participation adds a deeper significance to the film’s themes of activism, solidarity, and the struggle against gentrification.