Yurt

Nehir
Tuna

Nehir Tuna’s work combines social commentary and an original visual aesthetic, tackling stories on Turkey’s complex present-day issues, be it masculinity or conservatism. A Sundance Alumni, Tuna was selected to take part in 2019 Sundance Screenwriters Lab and 2020 Directors and Screenwriters Lab. He participated in the 2018 Nipkow film residency program. He has written and directed seven short films, including THE SHOES, a prequel to YURT (DORMITORY). Tuna studied at Columbia University's Graduate Film Program and holds an MFA in directing from Rochester Institute of Technology.

In 1997, Turkey was in a tense period marked by conflicts between religious groups and secular Turks. Even an Islamic boarding school for young people learning Islamic values was not immune to disputes. Among the new members is Ahmet, whose recently converted father paid a hefty sum to enroll him. But Ahmet is unhappy there; he faces problems just as daunting as the textbooks on his school desk. He keeps his new home a secret from his classmates – he isn't popular at the dormitory either – and playing the role of the perfect son is a demanding task. The only escape from his new reality is his friendship with Hakan, who helps him navigate the complex rules and regulations of the school. They share their dreams and desires and embark on a journey together, from which neither returns the same. The fact that the film is inspired by the director's life adds depth to the viewer's experience.