Mar. 12, 2021|Turkey|96 Min.|TV-MA
Genre: Drama
Description: **Paper Lives 2021 Full Movie in Turkish – Plot Summary**
Directed by Can Ulkay, *Paper Lives* is a Turkish film released on Netflix, set in a poverty-stricken neighborhood of Istanbul. The story revolves around a group of homeless children and teenagers who survive by scavenging and collecting trash for resale. Mehmet, portrayed by Çağatay Ulusoy, oversees this operation. Despite his own severe health problems, Mehmet is a compassionate and understanding figure, having faced similar struggles in his childhood.
With the help of his close friend Gonzi, Mehmet manages a successful junk collection business, saving money for a crucial surgery and hoping to fulfill his lifelong dreams, including finding his mother. His life takes a dramatic turn when he discovers a young boy named Ali hiding in a waste bag brought to the warehouse. Mehmet takes Ali under his care, offering him love and unforgettable experiences. Their bond deepens quickly, but it also stirs up painful memories of Mehmet’s own unresolved childhood traumas.
The film beautifully captures the essence of Istanbul, transforming its rundown streets and buildings into vibrant, sunlit scenes, while the city’s nighttime lights create a stunning backdrop. The cast delivers strong performances, with Emir Ali Doğrul shining as the endearing Ali. However, the movie’s excessive melodrama often undermines its credibility, detracting from the emotional impact of the story.
While *Paper Lives* highlights the harsh realities of poverty and the emotional scars it leaves, it falls short of exploring the broader sociopolitical context, instead leaning heavily on sentimental storytelling. Despite its flaws, the film offers a touching portrayal of resilience and human connection in the face of adversity.
Cast director: Can Ulkay
Cast actor: Çağatay Ulusoy, Emir Ali Dogrul, Ersin Arıcı, Turgay Tanülkü, Selen Öztürk
Original name: Kağıttan Hayatlar