Woman around the world have long yearned for independence and self-discovery, especially when they’ve long felt pressured by societal expectations. Their desire and battle for their own internal sense of control, especially as they contend with the complexities of trauma and external obstacles, drives the new drama, ‘Gülizar.’

The film marks the debut feature of writer-director Belkıs Bayrak. She infused a clear vision for the movie’s eponymous female protagonist, who struggles in the aftermath of a brutal attack, into the movie.

‘Gülizar’ follows the titular 22-two-year-old protagonist (Ecem Uzun), who was raised in a loving if strict Turkish home full of taboos and expectations for women and men alike. Longing to experience what lies beyond the only world that she and the women around her have ever known, Gülizar believes her forthcoming marriage and the promise of a new beginning over the horizon will herald a brighter future. Betrothed to her beloved Emre (Bekir Behrem), she’s eager to leave behind her family and her homeland for Kosovo.

Gülizar’s fairy tale, however, tragically turns into a nightmare when she’s sexually assaulted en route. There’s seemingly little that can be done to obtain justice and, with wedding preparations in full swing, Gülizar’s aspirations for happiness appear further and further away.

Yet, secrets are hard to keep in close-knit societies. Moreover, there’s a veil between Gülizar’s past and present self, and she can’t find a moment of peace as the nuptials approach. The young bride suffers in silence, navigating a claustrophobic maze as she begins to suspect the assailant is among the guests.

‘Gülizar’ had its World Premiere this past Saturday, September 7 at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The drama screened during the festival’s Discovery section, which celebrates up-and-coming directors to watch and the future of world cinema.

Bayrak generously took the time to talk about scribing and helming ‘Gülizar’ today during an exclusive interview over Zoom. Among other things, the filmmaker discussed why she was inspired to pen the script; how she approached directing the project; how she cast and rehearsed with the actors, especially leads Uzun and Behrem; and what it means to her that the feature premiered at TIFF.

Watch the video interview with Bayrak about ‘Gülizar’ in the above video.