Kibar Feyzo, released in 1978, is one of the comedy and social criticism films of Turkish cinema. Directed by Atıf Yılmaz, the film is based on İhsan Yüce's screenplay and was produced and distributed by Arzu Film. Starring legendary Turkish cinema actors such as Kemal Sunal, Şener Şen, Müjde Ar, İlyas Salman and Adile Naşit, the production presents a critique of the feudal system with a humorous tone. The film, which tells the story of Feyzo's struggle to marry Gülo, the girl he loves, after returning from military service, and his efforts to raise awareness among the villagers against the landlord system, was released in Türkiye on November 1, 1978, and has gained a cult status in Turkish cinema history with both its box office success and social impact.

Synopsis

Kibar Feyzo tells the story of Feyzo (Kemal Sunal), who wants to marry Gülo (Müjde Ar), the girl he loves in the village. Gülo is the daughter of Maho Ağa (Şener Şen), the village chieftain, and Maho will give his daughter to whoever offers the highest bride price. Feyzo manages to defeat his rival Bilo (İlyas Salman) and marry Gülo, but he can only pay half of the bride price and promises the rest with promissory notes. If he cannot pay the notes, Maho Ağa will take his daughter back. Feyzo goes to Istanbul to make up the money, where he encounters modern life and egalitarian ideas. When he returns to the village, he realizes that Maho Ağa is exploiting the villagers like slaves and tries to raise their awareness against the feudal system. The film deals with themes of the chieftain system, social inequality, and individual freedom in a humorous but sharp way.

^{Kibar Feyzo Film (Arzu Film)}

Cast

• Kemal Sunal – Kibar Feyzo
• Şener Şen – Maho Ağa
• Müjde Ar – Gülo
• İlyas Salman – Bilo
• Adile Naşit – Sakine Bacı
• Erdal Özyağcılar – Zülfo
• İhsan Yüce – Hüso
• Bahri Selin – Village Imam
• Meral Orhonsay – Gülo’s Mother
• Sıddık Sunal – Feyzo’s Father
• Cevdet Arıkan – Cevdet
• Hüseyin Kaşif – Villager

Production Process

Kibar Feyzo was filmed in 1978 in Istanbul and surrounding villages. The screenplay, written by İhsan Yüce, created an original story that humorously critiques the feudal system. Directed by Atıf Yılmaz and produced by Arzu Film, the film was brought to life with a limited budget but with a master cast and a strong narrative. Filming took place in real village settings to create an authentic atmosphere, especially in the village scenes. Cinematographer Çetin Tunca's use of natural light and simple but effective shots supported both the comedic and dramatic tones of the film. The film's music was composed by Zülfü Livaneli; especially "Kibar Feyzo Türküsü" (Ballad of Kibar Feyzo) became an iconic piece reflecting the spirit of the film.

Thematic Structure

• Critique of the Feudal System: The film sharply criticizes the exploitation of villagers by the chieftain system. Feyzo's awakening and organizing of the villagers represent an individual and collective rebellion against the feudal structure.
• Social Inequality and Awareness: Feyzo's encounter with modern life in Istanbul enables him to advocate for ideas of equality and justice upon his return to the village. The film emphasizes the role of education and awareness in social change.
• Love and Struggle: Feyzo's efforts to marry Gülo combine a personal love story with a social struggle. Traditions like bride price offer a critical perspective on the objectification of women.

Release and Reactions

Kibar Feyzo was released in Türkiye on November 1, 1978, and met with great audience interest in its initial screenings. Reaching approximately 1.3 million viewers at the box office, it became one of the most-watched films of 1978. The film, which received praise from critics, stood out for its social criticism, Kemal Sunal's sincere performance, and Şener Şen's authoritarian portrayal of Maho Ağa. However, due to its harsh criticism of the feudal system, it received reactions from some segments and led to censorship discussions.

Awards and Nominations

• 1979 Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival: Best Film – Won
• 1979 Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival: Best Actor (Kemal Sunal) – Won
• 1979 Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival: Best Screenplay (İhsan Yüce) – Won
• 1979 Sadri Alışık Awards: Best Actor (Kemal Sunal) – Nominated