Is Dilemma Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2010)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2010, Dilemma represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Drama category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Gafur - an extreme Muslim who was brought up to view all aspects of earthly life as an investment in the afterlife. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Drama are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Gafur - an extreme Muslim who was brought up to view all aspects of earthly life as an investment in the afterlife. He runs into a streetwalker who looks exactly like his wife (if she were to wear make-up and seductive clothing). He takes a second glance, and, in horror, realizes that the woman could truly be his wife's identical twin. After a period of spiritual struggle, Gafur considers this a sign from God and decides to take on the mission of "saving" this woman from her perverted and sinful life. Stepping out of his secluded life, he spends time with the identical twin and experiences the outside world for the first time. This experience slowly drives Gafur into delusion and paranoia."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Despite the inherent talent of Ali Barkın, the performance in Dilemma feels somewhat constrained by a narrative framework that doesn't fully exploit their range. There are flashes of brilliance, but the overall impact is muted.

The direction by Başak Büyükçelen is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 44 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Dilemma truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Drama, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 0/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Dilemma explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2010 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Başak Büyükçelen respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Dilemma is an interesting experiment that, while flawed, offers enough moments of creative spark to be worth a casual glance for the curious. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Ali Barkın or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Dilemma is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.