"Beyaz Hap," directed by the noted YouTube personality, Efe abi, offers a unique cinematic experience with a deep dive into the lives of two young individuals pursuing their passion for dance and gaming videos, respectively. The narrative cleverly intertwines their lives with a central theme of 'happiness pills.'
Efe Aydal, known for his well-articulated thoughts on his YouTube channel, steps into new territory with this movie. Me, being an avid follower of Efe abi, his transition from the digital platform to the big screen was both intriguing and commendable. The experience he brings from his years of producing engaging video content is palpable in his storytelling style.
However, Efe abi; as a 'self-taught' filmmaker or 'alayli,' in Turkish; shows some of his rookie stripes. There's a certain level of rawness and roughness around the edges, particularly in the technical aspects of the movie, that indicates the filmmaker's relative inexperience in this medium. It's not without its charm, though, as it infuses the film with a sort of grounded authenticity that resonates.
While Efe abi should be lauded for finally taking the leap and materializing his 20-year-old dream of making a film, "Beyaz Hap" is, in essence, a stepping stone in his filmmaking journey. As a viewer, I see this film as Efe abi's warm-up round - his way of breaking the ice with the medium and the industry. The directorial prowess of good filmmakers like Stanley Kubrick and Nuri Bilge Ceylan was not built in a day, and Efe abi is no different. He will undeniably learn from this endeavor and, hopefully, deliver more refined work in the future.
That said, "Beyaz Hap" has its own charm and appeal. The film's narrative carries Efe abi's signature style, a draw for viewers familiar with his work. Yet, the film might come off as slightly offbeat to those who are unacquainted with his digital content. The film's premise, while interesting, does sometimes fall into the trap of amateurish execution.
As a psychiatrist, I take issue with the film's portrayal of antidepressants. The message can be misleading as antidepressants play a vital role in managing and treating depression. They are not 'happiness pills' but necessary medical treatment for a serious condition. Therefore, Efe abi's depiction of antidepressants feels inaccurate and does a disservice to the understanding of mental health.
In conclusion, "Beyaz Hap" marks a commendable but flawed debut for Aydal. Despite its shortcomings, the film represents a stepping stone for Aydal and is an indication of the potential growth and refinement we might see in his future endeavors.
