Famous Turkish Directors

Nuri Bilge Ceylan is a prominent figure in Turkish cinema, known for his work as a director, screenwriter, photographer, and actor. His film "Winter Sleep" received international acclaim by winning the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Ceylan has had six of his films selected as Turkey's submission for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film, showcasing his consistent excellence in filmmaking. With a diverse skill set and a strong body of work, Ceylan continues to make significant contributions to the world of cinema.

Cüneyt Arkın was a renowned Turkish film actor, director, and producer with a career spanning four decades. He starred in approximately 300 movies and TV series, establishing himself as one of the most prominent Turkish actors. Arkın's diverse filmography included dramas, historical epics set in the Ottoman Empire and Anatolian Seljuks, as well as action and political films. He collaborated with director Remzi Aydın Jöntürk on notable projects like The Adam Trilogy. Arkın gained international recognition with the cult classic film "Dünyayı Kurtaran Adam" (The Man Who Saves The World), known for its unique blend of science fiction and martial arts.

Ali Atay is a versatile Turkish artist known for his work in various fields of the entertainment industry. As an actor, musician, screenwriter, and director, he has showcased his talent and creativity in numerous projects. With a diverse range of skills, Ali Atay has successfully contributed to Turkish cinema and music. His work has garnered critical acclaim and popularity among audiences, solidifying his reputation as a multi-talented and respected figure in the entertainment world.

Özlem Conker is a Turkish actress known for her work in various television series. She began her acting career in 1996 with a supporting role in the series Bizim Ev. Over the years, she gained recognition for her performances in shows such as Vasiyet, Payitaht: Abdülhamid, Kınalı Kar, and Karagül. Conker has also appeared in romantic comedies like "Çapkın" and "Sensiz Olmuyor" alongside Okan Yalabık. With a diverse range of roles, she has established herself as a versatile and talented actress in the Turkish entertainment industry.

Yılmaz Güney was a Kurdish film director, screenwriter, novelist, actor, and communist political activist known for his contributions to the Turkish film industry. He created works from a far-left perspective, focusing on the struggles of the working class in Turkey. Güney's film "Yol" won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 1982. He faced conflict with the Turkish government for his representations of Kurdish culture and people. Despite legal troubles, Güney continued his activism and co-founded the Kurdish Institute of Paris before his death.

Mehmet Aslantuğ is a highly accomplished Turkish actor, director, producer, and screenwriter of Circassian origin. Throughout his career, he has achieved significant recognition and success, earning multiple prestigious awards including the Golden Boll Award, Golden Objective Award, three Golden Orange Awards, and four Golden Butterfly Awards. Aslantuğ's talent and dedication to the entertainment industry have solidified his reputation as a versatile and respected figure in Turkish cinema, known for his exceptional contributions to both the acting and production aspects of filmmaking.

Deniz Gamze Ergüven is a prominent Turkish-French film director celebrated for her debut feature film Mustang, which garnered critical acclaim and multiple awards. Known for her unique storytelling style and ability to capture poignant narratives, Ergüven has established herself as a talented filmmaker in the industry. She continues to create compelling and thought-provoking films that explore themes of female empowerment, cultural identity, and societal norms. Her work showcases a deep understanding of human emotions and experiences, resonating with audiences worldwide.

Tuncel Kurtiz was a versatile Turkish artist known for his contributions to theatre, film, and television. With a career spanning over five decades, he established himself as a prominent actor, playwright, and film director. Kurtiz's talent was showcased in over 70 movies, with his work extending to various international productions. Throughout his professional life, he left a lasting impact on Turkish cinema and theatre, captivating audiences with his performances and artistic vision.

Özcan Deniz is a versatile Turkish artist known for his work in various creative fields. As an actor, he has starred in numerous films and television series, showcasing his talent and versatility on screen. Additionally, he is a successful singer and composer, creating music that has resonated with audiences. Deniz has also ventured into writing and directing, further displaying his creativity and passion for storytelling. With a diverse range of skills and a strong presence in the Turkish entertainment industry, he continues to captivate audiences with his work.

Yılmaz Erdoğan is a renowned Turkish filmmaker, actor, and poet known for his significant contributions to the entertainment industry. He gained widespread recognition for directing the box-office hit comedy film Vizontele and creating the popular television series Bir Demet Tiyatro. As the founder of BKM Theatre and Film Production, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the Turkish film and theater scene. Erdoğan's talent and versatility have been further acknowledged with prestigious awards, including the Best Supporting Actor honor at the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Awards.

Tamer Levent is a multi-talented Turkish professional with a diverse career in the entertainment industry. He started his journey by studying at the Ankara State Conservatory and graduating from the Department of Theater in 1977. Initially working as an actor, he later transitioned into directing in State Theaters. His career expanded as he took on roles such as general director and deputy general director of State Theaters, showcasing his versatility and leadership in the field of acting, directing, art direction, and writing.

Erkan Kolçak Köstendil is a versatile Turkish actor, director, and former footballer who has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry. He began his career with various theatrical performances, films, and television series before gaining recognition for his roles in popular shows like "Ulan Istanbul" and "Çukur." Known for his talent and versatility, he has also appeared in successful series like "Yılan Hikayesi," "Kurtlar Vadisi," and "Muhteşem Yüzyıl: Kösem." Additionally, he has garnered acclaim for his work in award-winning short films, showcasing his skill and dedication to his craft.

Kadir İnanır is a prominent Turkish film actor and director known for his significant contributions to the Turkish film industry. With a career spanning several decades, he has starred in numerous successful films and television series, showcasing his versatile acting skills and captivating performances. In addition to his acting prowess, Kadir İnanır has also made a mark as a director, helming projects that have garnered critical acclaim and audience appreciation. His dedication to the craft has solidified his reputation as a respected figure in Turkish cinema.

Barış Eyriboz is a prominent figure in the Turkish film industry, known for his work as a director, screenwriter, and producer. With a career spanning several years, he has established himself as a versatile and talented professional. Eyriboz has successfully helmed various film projects, showcasing his creativity and storytelling abilities. His contributions to the industry have earned him recognition and respect among his peers and audiences alike. Eyriboz continues to make significant contributions to Turkish cinema through his innovative and impactful work.

Ömer Zülfü Livaneli is a versatile figure known for his contributions as a musician, author, poet, and politician. He faced imprisonment for his political beliefs during the 1971 Turkish military memorandum, leading him to go into exile. Throughout his career, Livaneli has collaborated with renowned artists and intellectuals, such as Elia Kazan and Arthur Miller. He has been recognized for his cultural and political endeavors, including serving as a Goodwill Ambassador to UNESCO. Livaneli has also held positions in the Turkish Parliament and the Council of Europe.

İlyas Salman is a versatile Turkish talent known for his work as an actor, film director, author, screenwriter, and musician. He has successfully showcased his skills across multiple creative fields, earning recognition for his contributions to the entertainment industry. In 2012, he shared the prestigious Adana Golden Boll International Film Festival's Best Actor Award with Engin Günaydın, highlighting his exceptional acting abilities. Salman's professional journey is marked by a diverse range of projects that have solidified his reputation as a respected figure in Turkish cinema and the arts.