Journey to the Sun

A remarkably vivid portrait of a teeming third-world metropolis

Ustaoglu has pulled off a rare feat in this film, enlightening us about a horrible situation while never losing sight of his central tale of friendship and loyalty.

Sensitive, gritty and courageous, this film gathers a power and focus not foreshadowed in its deliberately rambling earlier sequences.

A remarkable second feature from writer-director Yesim Ustaoglu.

This is only Ustaoglu's second film, but smart performances and expressive camera work mark her as a talent to watch in the future.

Takes you on a fascinating and picturesque journey into a relatively unfamiliar culture.

Ustaoglu has made Mehmet unbelievably naive -- and the hardships piled upon him unintentionally evoke "The Perils of Pauline." That dilutes what should be a powerful protest film, and robs it of the emotional impact it aims for.