Josh Folan’s ‘Hatırlama‘ is an emotional ride wrapped in the delicate folds of subtlety. Set in Izmir, Turkey, this short drama is a stunning collision of memory, unexpected human compassion, and the haunting persistence of the past. With a runtime that wastes no moment, it manages to feel both intimate and universal.
From the opening, the film seduces with its high quality craftsmanship. Colin Oh’s cinematography captures the antique shop with a painterly precision. The camera glides gracefully through shelves and artifacts bathed in warm tones, creating an atmosphere that feels inviting. Complementing the visuals is the sound design, which is equally flawless.
The narrative begins deceptively simple: an American woman, portrayed by Austin Highsmith Garces, steps into an unassuming antique shop. What seems like a casual visit quickly turns disquieting as the shopkeeper, Hüseyin (Frank Shokouhi), insists she has been there before. His gentle yet insistent demeanor is both comforting and unsettling. Shokouhi’s performance blends sweetness, sincerity, and an almost otherworldly quality that makes Hüseyin a character you can’t forget.
As the woman’s memories resurface, the film transforms into something deeply emotional. The mystery unfolds with devastating clarity, the revelation hitting with the force of a tidal wave. Highsmith Garces delivers a performance so emotionally layered and raw that it feels almost voyeuristic to watch. Her portrayal captures the complexities of pain and healing, offering a window into a soul that’s been quietly unraveling. She inhabits the character, making her journey feel achingly real.
Folan’s writing and direction eschew melodrama in favor of quiet, unspoken truths. The film trusts its audience, never overexplaining or resorting to clichés. This fearless subtlety is what gives the story its emotional heft. It’s not a film that demands attention; it really earns it, drawing viewers into its world and leaving them breathless and heartfelt by the end. Daring, tender, and unforgettable.
