Şabanoğlu Şaban, is a Turkish comedy film released in 1977, directed by Ertem Eğilmez and written by Sadık Şendil. Its production and distribution were undertaken by Arzu Film. The film brings together well-known actors of the period, primarily Kemal Sunal, Halit Akçatepe, and Şener Şen. Its plot is shaped by events unfolding after military service, within the framework of an Ottoman period setting. The film premiered in Türkiye on December 1, 1977.
Synopsis
Şabanoğlu Şaban, focuses on the events experienced by Şaban and Ramazan after completing their military service. The duo, who had various conflicts with Commander Hüsamettin during their military service, enter a new phase when Şaban begins working for Hüsamettin after their discharge. By coincidence, after a wanted criminal named Kadırgalı Eşref is caught, Şaban and Ramazan are assigned a secret mission. A robbery at Nazır Pasha's mansion forms the main plot of the film. The film highlights themes of military discipline, misunderstandings, and a sense of duty.
Şabanoğlu Şaban Trailer (Arzu Film)
Cast
- Kemal Sunal – Şaban
- Halit Akçatepe – Ramazan
- Şener Şen – Commander Hüsamettin
- Adile Naşit – Aunt
- Ayşen Gruda – Safinaz
- Dinçer Çekmez – Kadırgalı Eşref
- İhsan Yüce – Circumciser
- Ayben Erman – Nigar
- Sıtkı Akçatepe – Nazır Pasha
- Zihni Göktay – Zihni
- Macit Flordun – Town Crier
- Osman Alyanak – Butler
Production Process
Şabanoğlu Şaban, was filmed in Istanbul in 1977. Both studio environments and mansions with the architectural features of the period were used during filming. The atmosphere of the era was created with sets and costumes representing the Ottoman period. Cinematography was handled by Hüseyin Özşahin. The film's music was composed by Melih Kibar and Cahit Berkay.
Thematic Structure
Friendship and Solidarity
The unwavering friendship between Şaban and Ramazan forms the emotional core of the film. Their mutual support despite their clumsiness conveys a sincere message of solidarity to the audience.
Misunderstandings and Absurdist Comedy
The misunderstandings revolving around Şaban's clumsiness and the diamond theft form the comedic backbone of the film. Hüsamettin's unexpected connections and chaotic situations increase the dose of absurdist humor.
Social Humor and Period Critique
The film humorously reflects the social dynamics of the period through the Ottoman era. Nazır Pasha's authority and Şaban's coping with this authority as a commoner offer a subtle critique of class differences.
Release and Reception
Şabanoğlu Şaban, reached a wide audience when it was released in 1977. It is reported to have been watched by approximately 1.2 million viewers. The film was evaluated by critics among the comedy productions of its period. The performances of the actors and character portrayals were subjects of various reviews. Some critics found the film's plot simple; however, it was evaluated in terms of the characteristics of its genre.
Awards and Nominations
Şabanoğlu Şaban, participated in the 14th Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival (1977); however, it did not win an award. It has been featured in retrospectives held in Turkish cinema during certain periods and shown at some cultural events.
