Donadona (2022) Poster

(2022)

User Reviews

Review this title
3 Reviews
Sort by:
Filter by Rating:
7/10
This is very good work due to low budget! Well Done!
ismailacikel-4205329 June 2023
For this movie, when I begin to watch, my expectations were low level. But this movie surprised me. Despite the fact that its low budget and a few cast, it made a good job. There are some criticizes about life conditions and cultural life in Turkiye at the movie. Roles, characters are very successful. I didn't like "Lutfen Cevap Veriniz" (LCV) the other long movie of Kaan Arici. But i really liked "Dona Dona" For every year, good movies like Dona Dona adds more bricks on Turkish Cinema. Record places are suitable places. The potential of New Wave Turkish Cinema is very high and during the long period, good movies will continue to be produced.
1 out of 1 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
Connections Over Talent
AliiDii4 August 2023
The prime objective of cinema is telling a story and entertaining the viewers. This movie succeeds in storytelling. The plot is simple yet profound; we live in a world where real artists are misunderstood and often overlooked unless they immerse themselves in the busy world of social media and advertising.

The central character is frustrated that film producers today expect actors to shout intensely. He believes actors should reveal the nuanced aspects of their character and yelling to the camera is pointless. Those with more money, connections and industry acquaintances have an advantage according to the protagonist. Talent goes unnoticed. This is a film that sheds light on the struggles of lesser-known artists with a modest budget and in a very simplistic manner.

The filmmakers deserve praise for their effort and I look forward to their future projects. In summary, while low budget, the movie delivers a thoughtful story that shines a light on an important issue.
0 out of 0 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
Heartwarming
olcay-423 May 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Donadona is a heartwarming drama that explores the complexities of friendship, unrequited love, and the pursuit of dreams. This emotionally resonant film captures the essence of the human spirit and reminds us of the power of unwavering support and selflessness.

Ali and Ceren, played brilliantly by their respective actors, share a unique bond as they navigate the challenging world of acting. Their chemistry on screen is palpable, conveying a genuine connection that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. As they work together on a play, it becomes apparent that their dreams are not materializing as expected.

One of the film's greatest strengths lies in its ability to capture the raw emotions experienced by aspiring actors in a fiercely competitive industry. Ali's mounting frustration and constant rejections from casting calls tug at the heartstrings, eliciting empathy from the audience. Through his character, the film delves into the sacrifices and personal struggles many artists face in their pursuit of success.

A pivotal moment occurs when Ali makes a selfless decision to step back from his acting aspirations and instead work a regular job. It is in this sacrifice that the film explores unrequited love, as Ali must come to terms with his own feelings for Ceren while watching her blossom professionally. The film delicately handles this emotional complexity, portraying Ali's love for Ceren with subtlety and nuance.

The final act brings a bittersweet twist that tugs at the heartstrings. Ceren's success finally comes to fruition as she wins a prestigious award for her acting. As she tearfully accepts the accolade, her gratitude towards Ali for his unwavering support is both touching and profound. The scene culminates in a poignant moment, as Ali watches Ceren's happiness from his cellphone and breaks into a heartfelt smile. It is a testament to their enduring friendship, where Ali finds solace in Ceren's triumph despite his personal sacrifices.

The direction of Donadona is skillfully executed, capturing the essence of each character's emotional journey. The film's cinematography adds depth to the storytelling, with intimate close-ups and evocative shots that enhance the emotional impact of pivotal scenes.

Although Donadona is primarily a drama, it also offers moments of levity and humor that provide a welcome balance to the overall narrative. The dialogue is natural and believable, further immersing the audience in the characters' lives.

While the film successfully conveys the emotional weight of its central themes, it occasionally lacks a deeper exploration of certain subplots and character arcs. However, this slight shortcoming does not detract significantly from the overall impact of the story.

Donadona is a heartfelt drama that celebrates the power of friendship, sacrifice, and the pursuit of dreams. It beautifully captures the rollercoaster of emotions experienced by aspiring artists and reminds us of the profound impact we can have on one another's lives. With its moving performances and bittersweet ending, this film is sure to inspire a reflection on the true meaning of success and the importance of genuine human connections.
0 out of 0 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink

See also

Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews


Recently Viewed