“Leave It to the Wind”: A Turkish Rom-Com Escape to the Aegean Coast
Aslı (Hande Erçel) embodies the quintessential urban career woman: sharp suits, sleek hair, a business-first attitude, a purely functional relationship, and after-work relaxation at the bar. This driven businesswoman heads to a seaside resort with a mission: to convince Ege (Barış Arduç), the company partner, son of the boss, and childhood friend, to sign off on a prime piece of land for a new hotel development. Time is of the essence; this deal is crucial to saving the company from financial ruin. However, persuading Ege proves to be more challenging than anticipated, forcing Aslı to extend her stay on the idyllic bay and enlist the help of a charming surf instructor to achieve her goal.
Hande Erçel as Aslı in a still from “Leave It to the Wind”
At first glance, judging by the poster, the film might seem like another iteration of the “After” or “Fifty Shades of Grey” mold. Yet, it turns out to be a refreshing revival of the classic romantic comedy formula – devoid of vulgarity and brimming with a comforting warmth. It evokes the feeling of needing to brush sand off your shoes and rinse sea salt from your hair after leaving the cinema.
Predictable, Yet Comforting
During the initial act, it’s easy to succumb to cynicism and roll your eyes at the predictable and simplistic nature of the melodramatic plot. The outcome is almost certain: they will fall in love, conflicts will dissolve, but a misstep will lead to a significant argument, culminating in a passionate, loving embrace towards the end. The superficial dialogues, typical of the genre, occasionally feel incomplete.
Barış Arduç as Ege in a still from “Leave It to the Wind”
Let’s be honest, spoilers don’t harm rom-coms. The audience doesn’t seek mind-blowing plot twists or sharp, Aaron Sorkin-esque dialogue. Rom-coms offer a sweet dose of escapism, transporting viewers to a distant, problem-free world. Director Engin Erden whisks us away to the beaches of Çeşme. After a series of endearing moments between the protagonists, critical thinking fades away, and the film becomes purely enjoyable. It even feels like a cocktail with a tiny umbrella is missing from your hand.
A Touch of “A Good Year”
“Leave It to the Wind” can even be compared (with a generous allowance) to Ridley Scott’s “A Good Year.” Instead of Hollywood stars, we have beloved local actors. Instead of the scents of wine and lavender, we have salty sea spray and Mediterranean cuisine. In both films, the characters escape the confines of glass and concrete for the freedom of nature. Initially reluctant, resistant, and maintaining their composure within the rigid lines of skyscrapers, they soon trade restrictive suits for linen shirts and shorts, letting their sea-dampened hair flow freely over bare shoulders.
Hande Erçel as Aslı in a still from “Leave It to the Wind”
Chemistry and Charm
Hande Erçel deserves recognition. The transformation of the “Knock on My Door” star’s character is evident not only in her appearance but also in her expressions and demeanor: her gaze softens, and her movements become more fluid. Barış Arduç’s character embodies the typical charming and cheerful romantic lead. Fortunately, the crucial element of a good rom-com is present: excellent chemistry between the leads. This chemistry builds gradually, culminating in a long-awaited kiss.
The plot closely resembles the tropes churned out annually for television by Hallmark. However, the Turkish film replaces functional, cardboard characters – akin to adult Ken and Barbie dolls – with vibrant, relatable individuals who can laugh, tease each other, and embrace spontaneity. Their world extends beyond a nominal family backdrop, incorporating supporting characters with their own challenges and subplots, adding another layer of interest.
“Leave It to the Wind” is a simple and familiar story. Despite its occasional clichés, banality, and contrived drama, it’s a film you want to dive into headfirst and linger in – enjoying the music, the stunning actors, the breathtaking scenery, and the feeling of endless summer. It doesn’t offer profound dramatic challenges or deeply flawed characters, but it provides a necessary escape to another reality, even if just for a few hours – and sometimes, that’s all we need.