The King of the Garbage Collectors (Film)

The Trash King is a Turkish comedy film released on 1 February 1978, shot in 1977. Directed by Zeki Ökten and written by Umur Bugay, the film was produced and distributed by Arzu Film. It stars Kemal Sunal, Şener Şen, Ayşen Gruda, İhsan Yüce and İlyas Salman. The story centers on a man who works as a garbage collector in a neighborhood and strives to win the affection of the woman he loves.

Plot

The Trash King tells the story of Apti Şakrak (Kemal Sunal), a garbage collector living in a neighborhood in Istanbul. Apti is attracted to Hacer (Ayşen Gruda), a sanitation worker in the same neighborhood. However, Hacer shows affection toward Şakir (Şener Şen), a police officer who uses his authority to exert pressure on the residents. Hacer’s family disapproves of her relationship with Şakir. Over time, Apti begins working at a nightclub and, through the experiences he gains there, rises to a prominent position in the neighborhood. The film explores themes of romantic relationships, economic conditions and social hierarchy.

Cast

• Kemal Sunal – Abdi Şakrak (Apti)
• Şener Şen – Police Officer Şakir
• Ayşen Gruda – Hacer
• İhsan Yüce – Hacer’s Father
• İlyas Salman – Şemsi
• Erdal Özyağcılar – Hacer’s Elder Brother
• Türker Tekin – İsmail
• Şevket Altuğ – Şevket
• Nejat Gürçen – Nightclub Owner
• Selim Naşit – Barber
• Hikmet Gül – Hacer’s Mother
• Zihni Göktay – Neighborhood Resident

Production

The Trash King was filmed in Istanbul in 1977. The screenplay was written by Umur Bugay and directed by Zeki Ökten. Arzu Film served as producer. Filming took place in various neighborhoods of Istanbul and on sets constructed in studio environments. Cinematography was handled by Hüseyin Özşahin and the music was composed by Cahit Berkay.

Thematic Structure

Class Differences and Social Critique

The film critiques class divisions through the authoritarian behavior of Officer Şakir and the impoverished yet hopeful demeanor of Apti. Apti’s rise in the nightclub illustrates humorously how members of the lower class can achieve prominence when given opportunity.

Love and Rivalry

The competition between Apti and Şakir for Hacer’s affection is centered on the theme of love. Hacer’s search for financial security reflects the social gender and economic dynamics of the era.

Chance and Fate

Apti’s accidental entry into the nightclub and the subsequent transformation of his life carry the “twist of fate” motif commonly used in Yeşilçam cinema. This reinforces the film’s entertaining and hopeful tone.

Release and Reception

The Trash King was released in Türkiye on 1 February 1978. Upon its release, it reached a wide audience and ranked among the most-watched films of 1978. Critics praised its screenplay and cast. Over time, the film has continued to be widely viewed through repeat screenings and its availability on digital platforms.

Awards and Nominations

• 1978 Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival: Best Film – Won
• 1978 Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival: Best Actor (Kemal Sunal) – Won
• 1978 Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival: Best Screenplay (Umur Bugay) – Nominated
• 1978 Sadri Alışık Awards: Best Actor (Kemal Sunal) – Nominated