From the heart of the forest in ancient times a farseeing and intrepid woman returns with a magical fire that draws the other women of the community. The bad spells that are cast over them are broken and together the women shine. There is no telling when this mysterious woman might appear.
Because she is mute Sibel is considered bad luck and is bullied by the other women in the village including her little sister. Sibel's pariah status is partially a blessing in that it grants her an unusual independence. In her spare time she roams the forest with a rifle looking for a wolf to kill. A dead wolf would improve her status with the other women and so the hunt consumes her. Sibel communicates by whistling, an ancient language understood by many in the community including her single father, sister, and an elderly recluse she befriends. When Sibel stumbles upon an injured fugitive in the forest she risks her safety, independence, and family honor by helping him, yet she is too lonely to let him go.
This enthralling story of female empowerment unfolds in Turkey's resplendent mountain forests of ancient spruce, mist, and patches of sunlight. The story loosely parallels that of the Scarlet Letter where a shunned woman becomes a positive source of wisdom and inspiration for other women in the village. There are many touching scenes such as when a hopeful Sibel shows up at a dance in a sparkly, flowery dress handmade by her reclusive friend, and she is shamed by her little sister. This powerful and encouraging story of feminine prowess is needed in all places, even in America, where women shun enlightenment and education in favor of pleasing men who treat them with disdain. The film is not a showcase of acting skills or cinematography, but it is believable and heartening.
