Movie Review: Head-On

Alternate Title: Culture Clash

Story: This picture will never be confused with a touchy-feely Hollywood film.

Imagine, if you will, a twenty something, suicidal, female Turkish hottie living in Germany who meets a forty something good for nothing drunk and then wants to marry him. Her life with her traditional family is so suffocating that she prefers this depressing alternative.

Written and directed by Fatih Akin this film won several awards including Berlin's Golden Bear, five German Lolas and three other major European awards. Do I hear Oscar? I doubt it.

This ragtag couple eventually get together but it sure ain't pretty. This is a street level, gritty portrayal of desperate characters in search of life, freedom and love.

This film is about assimilation, culture clashes, tradition versus modernity and hope. I recommend it to those out there who like to see something different and entertaining, yet a bit violent.

Acting: Birol Unel reminded me of Mick Jagger. He was excellent as the hapless love interest. Sibel Kekilli reminded me of Cher, in her pre-altered state. She was terrific.

Predilection: I like to see foreign films that have received awards in their home countries.

Food: Lots of delicious looking Turkish food including stuffed peppers.

Soundtrack: Interesting mix of traditional Turkish tunes, Grunge and Hard Rock.

Opening Titles: I saw this a week ago and I don't remember.

Theater Audience: A small crowd for a post blizzard midweek day.

Sappy Factor: 0

Quirky Meter : 2

Drift Range : I did not drift at all (but I did look at my watch a bit).

Squirm Scale: 2 (she is suicidal and attempts some squirmy stuff).

Predictability Level : I did not have a clue as to where this film was headed.

Tissue Usage: 0

Oscar Worthy: No.

Nit Picking : It seemed long at a bit under two hours.

Big Screen or Rental: Rental would be fine.

Length: Two hours.

LOBO HOWLS: 6