These dialogues of the dark begin and end in modern day Istanbul. Predominantly rural traditions of retaliation and prearranged marriage have moved with the people into the city. In the suburbs of the modern metropolis they take on new forms and meanings. Girls who resist prearranged marriage are stoned, strangled or forced to commit suicide. The documentary shifts between the stories of the women in the slum areas and reports from the country that shed light on what lies behind the stories. Thus Taylan is looking for an answer to questions like: what is the origin of retaliation? And who is fighting against it? The traditional Islam has always rejected retaliation, but the growing fundamentalist movements encourage violence. On the other hand organisations have arisen that fight for women\’s rights and against domestic violence.
Turkey, 2005, Documentary, English subtitles , 65 minutes

Director and Producer: Melek Ulagay Taylan Production Company: Ajans 21

Selection Amnesty International Film Festival.
Mention Speciale at the Festival Internatonal des Films de Femmes du Jury Lyceen