Deliler (2018) is a Turkish historical action film directed by Onur Tan, set during the late Ottoman Empire and centered around the events of the Balkan Wars. The film is also known by its English title The Ottoman Legion and is inspired by actual historical events, though it takes significant creative liberties. It portrays a group of elite Ottoman soldiers, known as the “Deliler” or “Madmen,” who are tasked with carrying out a dangerous mission behind enemy lines.

Plot Overview

Deliler follows the story of a group of soldiers from the Ottoman Empire during World War I, specifically in the tumultuous period leading up to the Balkan Wars. The main focus is on a special unit of soldiers—known for their fierce combat skills and near-mythical reputation—who are sent on a mission to neutralize enemy forces and protect the Ottoman Empire’s interests. The film weaves action, political intrigue, and personal sacrifice, as the soldiers are not just fighting for their country but also for the survival of their comrades and their honor.

As with many historical war films, the movie blends real-world events with fictionalized elements, introducing characters that may or may not have had actual historical counterparts. The “Deliler” (translated as “madmen” or “the brave”) are depicted as fearless warriors who are willing to take on impossible tasks, using both tactical acumen and raw physical power to defeat the enemy.

Direction and Cinematography

Onur Tan’s direction in Deliler is effective in capturing the chaotic and intense atmosphere of the time. The film’s battle sequences are ambitious, with large-scale combat scenes, hand-to-hand fighting, and explosive set pieces. While the pacing can be uneven, particularly in the early parts of the movie, the action scenes are designed to keep the audience engaged with high-energy moments that showcase the soldiers’ brutal and relentless approach to warfare.

The cinematography of Deliler is another standout feature. The film does an admirable job of recreating the landscapes of the time, with sweeping shots of the terrain and the large-scale battlefields. The costumes and production design help immerse the audience in the era, with attention to detail in the uniforms, weapons, and set pieces.

Performances

The cast, led by a variety of well-known Turkish actors, delivers strong performances. The characters are given a good amount of emotional depth, especially the central protagonists, who are portrayed as brave and loyal soldiers with deep personal struggles. Their relationships with each other, forged through years of military service, provide some of the most compelling moments of the film. The camaraderie among the soldiers is evident, and the film highlights the bond between them, even as the cost of war takes its toll.

One of the movie’s most notable performances comes from the lead actor, who portrays the central figure of the group. He successfully balances the character’s grit and leadership qualities with the vulnerability that comes with the weight of war and personal sacrifice. The performances from the supporting cast also enhance the story, bringing depth to the various members of the “Deliler” team.

Themes and Historical Accuracy

While Deliler is set against a real historical backdrop, it is not an entirely factual retelling. The filmmakers take considerable creative liberties in crafting the story and characters. This blending of fact and fiction is typical for many war epics, as it allows for more dramatic tension and an emotional connection to the material. The themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the horrors of war are prominent throughout the film.

The film doesn’t shy away from depicting the brutality of the war, showing the soldiers’ courage as well as the personal costs of battle. The loyalty to the Ottoman Empire and the bond between comrades are central to the narrative. However, some viewers may find that the portrayal of the “Deliler” as near-mythical warriors occasionally veers into over-the-top territory, which detracts from the movie’s overall realism.

The historical aspects of the film may not be entirely accurate, and some may criticize the movie for glossing over certain political complexities or oversimplifying the events of the time. While the film does succeed in conveying the tension and emotional stakes of the period, it doesn’t serve as a comprehensive historical documentary.

Action and Battle Sequences

The action in Deliler is a key element that sets it apart from other historical films. The battles are intense, often chaotic, and filled with high-stakes moments. The film’s use of practical effects, including hand-to-hand combat and large-scale war sequences, brings a visceral quality to the action scenes. These sequences are a blend of tactical warfare and raw physicality, highlighting the brutal realities of the time. While there are moments of over-the-top action that border on unrealistic, they fit within the context of the larger-than-life portrayal of the soldiers’ heroism.

Criticism

While Deliler excels in many areas, there are aspects of the film that might not resonate with all viewers. The film’s pacing can be inconsistent, with some sections feeling slower than others. The story also sometimes leans too heavily on emotional melodrama, which may detract from the overall impact of the film, particularly for viewers who were expecting a more grounded or realistic portrayal of wartime events.

Some critics have noted that the movie’s treatment of historical events is overly simplistic, focusing more on the heroism of the soldiers than on the complex political and military forces at play during the Balkan Wars and the First World War. This may disappoint viewers looking for a more nuanced examination of the historical context.

Conclusion

Deliler (2018) is a gripping and visually stunning historical action film that excels in its depiction of bravery, sacrifice, and the emotional weight of war. While its action sequences are intense and thrilling, the film falters in its pacing and historical accuracy, leaning more on creative liberties and emotional appeal than on a deep, realistic portrayal of the era.

The performances from the cast are commendable, and the camaraderie of the soldiers is a highlight. However, the film’s over-reliance on larger-than-life characters and its occasionally melodramatic tone may not be to everyone’s taste. For fans of historical action films and those interested in Ottoman history, Deliler offers a compelling but imperfect portrayal of wartime heroism.

In the end, Deliler is an entertaining war movie that balances history with high-stakes action, making it an enjoyable watch for those who appreciate epic, action-filled narratives, even if it doesn’t always stick to the historical facts.