Ali’s Nature: Screening and Discussion with the Audience at Salt Beyoğlu
The film Ali’s Nature, directed by Levent Çetin, Studio Coordinator and Director of the Faculty of Communication, explores the concepts of nature, tradition, and sacredness. It was screened for the audience at a special event held at Salt Beyoğlu. The film tells the captivating story of Ali and Meryem, the last representatives of a tradition where fish are considered sacred and are wrapped in shrouds and buried with prayers in a fish cemetery when they die. After the screening, a discussion was held focusing on the relationship between ecology and belief. In his talk, Levent Çetin highlighted non-anthropocentric practices in Alevi culture and the concept of sacred ecology, offering a valuable perspective on today’s depleted resources and ecological issues.
The Relationship Between Ecology and Belief Was Discussed in the Talk
Following the film screening, a discussion was held with the participation of director Levent Çetin, academician Çimen Günay Erkol, and Ezgi Hamzaçebi, the coordinator of the research group “Speculative Narratives” in the Su Etrafında program. The talk opened a discussion on alternative ways of existence and action within traditional cultures.
In his speech, Levent Çetin touched on non-anthropocentric practices in Alevi culture and the concept of sacred ecology, while Çimen Günay Erkol analyzed the film from the perspective of ecology and gender relations, evaluating it in the context of critical masculinity studies. The discussion, moderated by Ezgi Hamzaçebi, allowed the audience to contribute and engage in in-depth debates about the film.
Levent Çetin's Artistic and Cinematic Journey
Levent Çetin completed his cinema education at the Marmara University Faculty of Fine Arts, Cinema and Television Department, and then pursued a master's degree at the Istanbul Bilgi University Cinema and Television Department. Known for his experimental films and video works, Çetin's works have made a significant impact in both national and international festivals.
His first feature film Sivil, completed in 2012, received critical acclaim in the cinema world, while his 2017 short documentary At Hikâyeleri, produced with the support of the New Film Fund, was showcased at the Viscult Festival. His second feature film Ali'nin Tabiatı, completed in 2020, deeply explored the relationship between ecology and tradition, was screened at various international festivals, and won several awards. The director is currently working on a documentary film project about artist Nil Yalter.
The Connection Between Sustainability and Cultural Values Was Emphasized
This special event took place with great interest from a wide audience interested in cinema and ecology. The event, which was open to the public and free of charge, offered a valuable perspective based on the cultural diversity of Anatolia, addressing the depletion of resources and ecological issues of today. We congratulate Levent Çetin for his valuable work, which highlights the connection and importance of sustainability and belief-based values, and wish him continued success.
