The Wrestler
Pehlivan
Synopsis
With good guidance from director Zeki Okten but an uninspired script, this story of a brother and his Turkish family influenced by old and new traditions is somewhat uneven. Bilal (Tarik Akan) is devoted to the art of wrestling, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, who were both champions at the sport. Aside from his interest in wrestling for its own sake, Bilal has a chance to win a provincial wrestling contest and thereby bring home a considerable cash award for his efforts -- and so his days are spent in training for the event. Meanwhile, his brother and sister-in-law and their daughter have come back home after living in Germany for 12 years and are finding the adjustment to their cultural roots a bumpy ride. As long scenes of well-oiled and slippery wrestlers in action prepare viewers for Bilal's big event, the struggle of these men is reminiscent of the struggle of Bilal's family to come to grips with a world they may not be able to accept unconditionally.
Top Cast
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Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Zeki Ökten
- Screenplay & Story
- Fehmi Yasar
- Original Score
- Tarık Öçal
- Original Title
- Pehlivan
- Country of Origin
- Turkey
- Spoken Languages
- Turkish
- Runtime
- 1h 38m
- Production Studios
- Şeref Film
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Zeki Ökten
Fehmi Yasar
Tarık Öçal
Hüseyin Özşahin
Nevzat Dişiaçık
Şerafettin Gür
Department Leadership Roster
Zeki Ökten
Director
Fehmi Yasar
Writer
Nevzat Dişiaçık
Editor
Hüseyin Özşahin
Director of Photography
Şerafettin Gür
Producer
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Wrestler.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Wrestler
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is The Wrestler about?
With good guidance from director Zeki Okten but an uninspired script, this story of a brother and his Turkish family influenced by old and new traditions is somewhat uneven. Bilal (Tarik Akan) is devoted to the art of wrestling, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, who were both champions at the sport. Aside from his interest in wrestling for its own sake, Bilal has a chance to win a provincial wrestling contest and thereby bring home a considerable cash award for his efforts -- and so his days are spent in training for the event. Meanwhile, his brother and sister-in-law and their daughter have come back home after living in Germany for 12 years and are finding the adjustment to their cultural roots a bumpy ride. As long scenes of well-oiled and slippery wrestlers in action prepare viewers for Bilal's big event, the struggle of these men is reminiscent of the struggle of Bilal's family to come to grips with a world they may not be able to accept unconditionally.
Who directed The Wrestler?
The Wrestler was directed by Zeki Ökten.
Who stars in The Wrestler?
The principal cast of The Wrestler includes Tarık Akan, Erol Günaydın, Ahmet Kayiskesen, Yaman Okay, Meral Orhonsay.
When was The Wrestler released and how long is it?
The Wrestler was released in 1984 with a total runtime of 1h 38m.
Who composed the musical score for The Wrestler?
The original motion picture soundtrack for The Wrestler was composed by Tarık Öçal.