The realm of romantic comedy often faces criticism for being overdone and highly predictable. This is particularly true for formulaic rom-coms where the conclusion is foreseeable from the beginning. Netflix's latest Turkish offering, 'Make Me Believe', doesn't shy away from such cliches. However, it puts forward a commendable effort that's hard to ignore.
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At the center of the narrative are Sahra, a lifestyle magazine editor, and Deniz, a reserved photographer. Their lives intertwine when their grandmothers go missing in Assos, and we discover that they share a childhood connection. Their past relationship, however, has misunderstandings, causing tension between the two. Sahra's job is on the line, hinging on an interview with Deniz, the renowned photographer. Deniz's friend Ulas and Sahra's colleague Ahu spark a connection. This connection acts as a catalyst to bridge the gap between Sahra and Deniz. The grandmothers, too, meddle with matchmaking intentions. They go to the extent of hiring men to flirt with Sahra to incite jealousy in Deniz.
While predictability may seem undesirable, it is not always negative. Despite knowing the plot, a well-crafted narrative can still be entertaining. These films don't aim to clinch awards but provide light-hearted enjoyment, hoping to be your choice for a cozy movie date. However, enduring the first twenty minutes of 'Make Me Believe' proved somewhat tedious, but it gradually morphed into an enjoyable viewing experience.
Interestingly, Sahra and Deniz unite not at the climax, as the conventional rom-com formula dictates, but halfway through the film. This deviation gives the movie a unique spin, resulting in an engaging second half filled with heartwarming romantic moments between the couple. Actors Ayça Aysin Turan and Ekin Koç share an on-screen camaraderie that, while not intensely electrifying, is amiable enough to win your support.
By tackling the romantic aspect early on, 'Make Me Believe' allows more room to delve into Sahra's work life and the storyline linked to it. The film's narrative aptly examines Sahra and Deniz as individuals. Deniz's reclusiveness as a photographer is not merely a side-note but receives an apt backstory. The movie articulates the idea that an artist's work should represent them, not their accolades. This argument is presented authentically without sounding contrived. Deniz's photographic philosophy is portrayed convincingly, and his reluctance to give interviews is justified.
However, the final act witnesses a large misunderstanding between Sahra and Deniz, courtesy of Sahra's irritating colleague Karem. This shifts the narrative back to its original cheesy rom-com territory. This change is somewhat jarring, but not unexpected. The climax becomes reminiscent of post-2000 romantic Hindi cinema, ending with a passionate reconciliation. The lengthy journey to this resolution includes Sahra writing an extensive article inspired by a scene from the beloved film, 'Wake Up Sid'. Deniz's public declaration of love in Sahra's office is a significant gesture, especially as it potentially exposes his identity to the world.
In recent years, Netflix has become known for producing such movies in succession, suggesting there's a dedicated audience for films like 'Make Me Believe'. These viewers willingly draw into the glossy world of the film and become fans of the main characters. Although I did find myself enjoying 'Make Me Believe', it fulfills Netflix's standards with its credible storyline, attractive lead pair, and dreamy visuals. Overcome the initial twenty minutes, and you might find yourself believing in love. Perhaps that's a slight overstatement, but my cynicism certainly retreated after watching 'Make Me Believe'.
