The Bandit (1996)
A landmark Turkish crime drama about vengeance, loyalty, and the weight of 35 lost years, brought to life by an unforgettable performance from Şener Şen.
The Bandit - Movie Information
- Original Title: Eşkıya
- Release Year: 1996
- Directed by: Yavuz Turgul
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Runtime: 2h 8m
- Original Language: Turkish
- Spoken Languages: Turkish
- Release Date (Theatrical): November 29, 1996 (United Kingdom - 15)
- Alternative Titles: Eskiya (TR)
- Production Companies: Geopoly, Filma-Cass, ArtCam
- Production Countries: Turkey
The Bandit - Plot
Baran the Bandit, released from prison after serving 35 years, searches for vengeance against his former best friend who betrayed him and stole his lover, teaming up with a young punk with his own demons along the way.
The Bandit - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the world of Baran unfold:
Where to Watch The Bandit
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The Bandit - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Yavuz Turgul
Main Cast
- Şener Şen
- Uğur Yücel
- Sermin Hürmeriç
- Yeşim Salkım
- Kamran Usluer
- Kayhan Yıldızoğlu
- Necdet Mahfi Ayral
- Güven Hokna
- Özkan Uğur
- Ülkü Duru
Writers
- Yavuz Turgul
Producers
- Mine Vargı
- Ömer Vargı
The Bandit - FAQs
Why is The Bandit considered a classic of Turkish cinema?
The Bandit is widely regarded as one of the greatest Turkish films ever made. It broke domestic box office records upon release, drew over 2.5 million viewers in Turkey, and masterfully blended crime, tragedy, and social commentary. Şener Şen's iconic portrayal of Baran cemented the film's legendary status.
Who are the main actors in The Bandit?
The Bandit stars Şener Şen as Baran, the aging outlaw seeking justice, and Uğur Yücel as Cumali, a street-smart young punk who becomes his unlikely companion. The supporting cast includes Sermin Hürmeriç as Keje, Yeşim Salkım as Emel, and Kamran Usluer as the treacherous Mahmut Şahoğlu.
Where can you watch The Bandit online?
Streaming availability for The Bandit varies by region and platform. You can check current streaming, rental, and purchase options across all major platforms by visiting JustWatch, which provides up-to-date availability information for your specific country or region.
What is The Bandit about?
The Bandit follows Baran, a man released from prison after 35 years, who travels to Istanbul to exact revenge on the former best friend who betrayed him and stole the woman he loved. Along the way he forms an unlikely bond with Cumali, a young hustler navigating his own troubled life.
Who directed The Bandit?
The Bandit was written and directed by Yavuz Turgul, one of Turkey's most celebrated filmmakers. Turgul crafted the film as both a gripping crime thriller and a poignant meditation on loyalty, betrayal, and the collision between tradition and modernity in rapidly changing Turkish society.
What genre is The Bandit?
The Bandit is a Crime, Drama, and Thriller. While it operates as a revenge-driven crime narrative on the surface, the film is equally celebrated as a deeply human drama exploring themes of honor, friendship, displacement, and the cultural tensions of 1990s Turkey.
How long is The Bandit?
The Bandit has a runtime of 2 hours and 8 minutes (128 minutes). The film uses its generous running time to develop rich character dynamics between Baran and Cumali, building emotional depth alongside the central revenge plot set against the backdrop of Istanbul.
Did The Bandit win any awards?
Yes. The Bandit swept the Turkish cinema awards scene, winning multiple Golden Orange Film Festival prizes including Best Film, Best Director for Yavuz Turgul, and Best Actor for Şener Şen. It remains one of the most decorated Turkish films of its era and a touchstone of national cinema.
More About The Bandit
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