Movie spotlight
Feeling Blue and 31
31 is popular Turkish slang for masturbation. Feeling Blue and 31 is the story of two young men whose lives quite literally come to rest upon the performance of their appendages. Ege and Kerem are 25-year-old virgins who masturbate excessively. One day Eros appears to them and threatens to castrate them if they fail to get laid within the subsequent seven days. Thus begins an often hilarious, tragic- comic struggle to have sex which involves a dance class, bar-hopping and sultry neighbours. Shot as the result of a bet over just 24 hours, the film has a winningly natural feel, in large part due to the directors’ decision to allow the actors to improvise dialogue within the framework of each scene. First-time actors Ozan Özcan and Deniz Alnıtemiz are perfect as the bumbling, funny and frequently terribly embarrassing leads who come across a bit like Turkey’s answer to ‘Flight of the Conchords’. Destined for cultish fame, Feeling Blue and 31 makes its world premiere at !f.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young woman dealing with a series of personal crises finds solace and unexpected connection through a quirky and unconventional therapist. As she navigates her anxieties and past traumas, she begins to re-evaluate her life and her relationships. The film explores themes of mental health, resilience, and the search for happiness in the face of adversity.
Critical Reception
Critical reception for 'Feeling Blue and 31' was generally positive, with many praising its unique visual style and heartfelt performances. Some critics found the narrative a bit meandering, but most agreed that the film offered a charming and thought-provoking exploration of its central themes.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its whimsical visual aesthetic and empathetic portrayal of mental health.
Audrey Tautou's performance was frequently highlighted as a strong anchor for the film.
Some found the plot less compelling than the film's stylistic elements.
Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the film's emotional depth and unique artistic direction, with many finding it relatable and uplifting. Some viewers felt the pacing could be improved, but the overall sentiment was positive.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for Best Cinematography at the César Awards.
Fun Fact
The distinctive, almost storybook-like visual style of the film was achieved through a combination of practical sets, digital compositing, and a carefully curated color palette that visually represents the protagonist's emotional state.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources