Safe Return Doubtful

Turkey / Georgia 2024

All of last year I didn’t see a film I scored as a ten, and yet only a few days into 2026 and I’ve found one. 

I haven’t see a film by Director Levan Akim before, but after this I will seek out all of his others. 

Retired teacher, Lia, travels from her home town of Batumi on the Black Sea coast of Georgia to Istanbul to look for her missing niece, a transitioned 27 year old who was not accepted in her home town. Young Achi, in his early twenties, and a friend of the niece, goes with her. Their relationship is awkward, they appear to have nothing in common. 

After a week in the city any lead they had has come to nothing. They seem to have nowhere to turn, but a chance meeting with a trans rights lawyer gives them some hope. 

This is an absolute triumph, with completely plausible performances from all the main performers. The depiction of Istanbul is another highlight. The less important roles, of the trans-community and the children, and wonderfully cast also. There’s very little sex or violence here, but great writing can imply it. 

Akim suggests that through such crossings we can begin to understand each other more. 

I don’t like writing ‘for those who enjoyed’.. but, it did make me think of Elif Shafak’s 10 minutes 38 seconds at times.. 

Wholeheartedly recommended. 

IMDb score 7.4 / 10 – My score 10 / 10