Me and My Father - Vatan (Film)

"Me and My Father - Homeland" is a Turkish drama and historical film released in 2023, focusing on the coup attempt of 15 July 2016. Directed by Berat Özdoğan, the film was produced in collaboration with TRT and premiered on television on TRT 1 on 15 July 2024. The film narrates the events in Ankara during the 15 July coup attempt and the Turkish people’s defense of democracy through the relationship between a father and his son. The main roles are played by Şerif Sezer, Ali Sürmeli, and child actor Eymen Kaan.

Plot

The film centers on a story set in Ankara during the FETÖ-led coup attempt of 15 July 2016. Cihangir (Ali Sürmeli), an engineer working at TÜRKSAT, is a shy and withdrawn father going through a separation from his wife. On the night of the coup, he finds himself at the heart of the events alongside his son Can (Eymen Kaan). While trying to stop the coup plotters from cutting off broadcasts and suppressing public resistance, he also fights to protect his family and his homeland. The film places Cihangir’s efforts to rebuild his relationship with his son and the people’s resistance against the coup attempt at its core.

Themes

The film explores themes of patriotism, democracy, family bonds, and individual courage. Within the context of the 15 July coup attempt, it emphasizes the Turkish people’s determined defense of democracy. The father-son relationship symbolizes the reestablishment of love and trust under difficult circumstances, while the theme of patriotism reflects the individual’s sacrifice in the face of social responsibility. Additionally, the film objectively examines the psychological transformation of individuals and the emergence of social solidarity amid war and chaos.

Box Office Performance

"Me and My Father - Homeland" had a limited theatrical release but reached a wide audience through its television broadcast on TRT 1 on 15 July 2024. During the broadcast, the film ranked second in the AB category, third in the ABC1 category, and fourth in the Total category, placing it among the most-watched programs of the day. Although box office figures were limited, the film received significant attention, particularly during commemorations of 15 July.

Production

The screenplay was written by Uğur Uzunok, who also served as producer. The cinematography was handled by Ömer Faruk Sorak, and the music was composed by Derya Uluğ. Filming began in 2022 and was completed in 2023. The film draws attention through its use of real locations and detailed production design to accurately recreate the atmosphere of the coup night.

Characters and Cast

• Cihangir (Ali Sürmeli): An engineer working at TÜRKSAT. A shy and introverted character, Cihangir displays unexpected courage on the night of the coup to protect his son and his homeland.
• Can (Eymen Kaan): Cihangir’s young son. Witnessing his father’s heroism, he strengthens his bond with him.
• Şerife (Şerif Sezer): Cihangir’s mother, who provides emotional support to keep the family together.
• Commander (Bülent Emin Yarar): A military figure who organizes the coup attempt. The character represents the chaotic nature of the events.