Lola Und Bilidikid review

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Imagine a Turkish Priscilla Queen Of The Desert with more violence, deeply passionate love and less comedy, and you've got Lola Und Bilidikid - - a strange drama which makes for gripping, if at times troubling, viewing.

Murat (Davrak) is a gay 17-year-old Turk living in Berlin who's desperately trying to come out in the tradition-bound neighbourhood of his immigrant family. His quest for acceptance leads him to the enigmatic Lola, stage performer and reigning queen of the gay Turkish set. But soon secrets are revealed and tragedy strikes.

A powerful exploration of entrenched homophobia and racism, Lola Und Bilidikid offers a potent metaphor for the oppression and alienation of a subculture. Assuredly directed by E Kutlug Ataman, this makes for an exceptional film which balances its hefty themes with considerable skill. Strong stuff then, but a rewarding experience.

The Total Film team are made up of the finest minds in all of film journalism. They are: Editor Jane Crowther, Deputy Editor Matt Maytum, Reviews Ed Matthew Leyland, News Editor Jordan Farley, and Online Editor Emily Murray. Expect exclusive news, reviews, features, and more from the team behind the smarter movie magazine. 

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