Dance the Past Into The Future

Dance the Past Into The Future is a remarkable documentary film that came out in 2014. This atmospheric documentary is directed by Mario Mattei and produced with İnan Temelkuran. It shines the light on the unwritten stories of the culturally rich region of northeastern Turkey. The movie consists of an ensemble cast of Bulent Bekar and Yasar Ataman, amongst others who portray the everyday men and women living in these remote areas.

The dominant theme and narrative of Dance the Past Into The Future revolves around age-old traditions and cultural practices and the dilemma of preserving these in the face of modernization, all represented through the metaphor of dance. The film delicately explores the complexities of societal evolution, the intriguing balance between cultural heritage and modernity, and how this delicate balance affects the communities living in the mountainous landscapes of northeastern Turkey.

Dance the Past Into The Future enables viewers to embark on an enlightening journey through the remote villages, forests, and mountain tops, having been trying to keep up with the pace of the ever-evolving outside world. This is a realm where traditions are passed down through generations, carrying the weight of their ancestors' knowledge and wisdom.

The two most enticing figures in the film are Bulent Bekar and Yasar Ataman. These individuals narrate their stories in their words, reflecting the intimate and personal journey they have individually taken within their communities as they attempt to bridge the gap between the old ways and the new. The documentary provides the audience with an insider's perspective, seeing through the innocent yet wise eyes of these individuals.

The film showcases the tension between tradition and globalization in a non-intrusive manner. The camera lens skillfully captures the unrest and struggle within these communities clinging to their identities while being subtly nudged into the future. The audience gets to witness the disintegration of shamanistic beliefs amidst societal and technological innovation.

Dance the Past Into The Future is anchored heavily in its ethnographic study of these communities. The effects of modernization and the introduction of technology into these traditional societies are portrayed absorbingly and to quite an emotional effect. This haunting interface between the old and new captures viewers' attention and raises questions that linger long after the film is over.

The narrative arc of the film explores how modernity's sweep into these societies forces many to make a choice—whether to stay attached to their historic roots or adapt to the changing landscapes of modern society. However, not all changes are shown as negative; it also discusses the positive improvements that come with advancements, such as medical help or increased connectivity.

Besides its riveting narrative, the documentary is visually compelling. Each scene is a masterpiece that beautifully encapsulates the breathtaking landscapes of northeastern Turkey. The cinematography brilliantly complements the narrative, transporting the audience to a world where nature and tradition dance together in harmony.

From the exquisite dialogues to the heart-touching storyline, Dance the Past Into The Future provokes profound thoughts about the relationship between tradition and modernity. It does not just document facts but manages to engage audiences emotionally and intellectually, inviting them to ponder the cost of progress and cultural preservation.

The power of Dance the Past Into The Future lies not only in providing insightful commentary on societal change but also helping us understand that preserving cultural heritage can exist alongside modernization. One does not have to obliterate the other; there's room for each to coexist, fluctuate, and harmonize.

While watching the documentary, the viewer becomes a participant, not just an observer. The filmmakers deftly provoke the audience to reflect upon their roles as members of rapidly changing societies. All in all, Dance the Past Into The Future resonates universally, and no matter where we come from, it challenges everyone to question our individual relationships with tradition and modernity.