Levan Akin’s Crossing (2024) is a hauntingly beautiful film that explores themes of identity, loss, and the struggle for connection in an often unforgiving world. Set against the vibrant yet tumultuous backdrop of Istanbul, this drama is as much a reflection of its characters’ internal landscapes as it is of the city’s tangled streets. Part travelogue, part existential meditation, Crossing weaves together the stories of disparate individuals searching for meaning, redemption, and, at times, survival. And though it often teeters on the brink of heartache, the film remains an ultimately hopeful portrayal of human resilience.
But make no mistake—this isn’t your typical “heartwarming” movie. If you’re looking for a feel-good experience, Crossing might feel like having your emotional baggage dragged through customs and then rummaged by security for good measure. With a deftly handled balance of realism and intimate character study, the film lingers long after its 106-minute runtime. And not always in a comforting way.
A Search for Redemption in a Chaotic City
At the heart of Crossing is Lia (played with breathtaking subtlety by Mzia Arabuli), a retired teacher burdened by an impossible promise: to find her long-lost niece, Tekla, in the sprawling chaos of Istanbul. Lia’s mission is both a tribute to her deceased sister and an attempt to reconcile her own regrets. She’s accompanied by Achi (Lucas Kankava), a young neighbor with a swagger that belies his personal struggles. Achi is eager to help but also comes with his own brand of recklessness, which injects moments of tension into their journey.
Their search for Tekla becomes the central narrative drive, but it’s the relationships they form along the way that leave the deepest impressions. Alongside the emotionally charged dialogue, we witness moments of quiet introspection as they navigate Istanbul’s gritty, unpolished reality. The city itself becomes a character—rich in history, diverse in culture, but also unforgiving, with streets that seem to swallow the vulnerable whole. Director Levan Akin captures Istanbul with unvarnished realism: its labyrinthine alleys, overcrowded public squares, and yes, its population of stray cats, all feel palpably real.
The Power of Performances: Lost Souls in Search of Connection
The performances in Crossing are nothing short of extraordinary. Arabuli’s portrayal of Lia is nuanced, her facial expressions alone conveying a world of unspoken emotion. As the film progresses, we see Lia shift from stern determination to moments of vulnerability—often aided by a few swigs of “chacha,” a fermented Georgian drink that provides fleeting solace from the weight of her quest. It’s in these moments of vulnerability where Arabuli truly shines, drawing the audience into Lia’s internal conflict.
Achi, played with equal finesse by Lucas Kankava, is a perfect foil to Lia. He’s young, brash, and sometimes clueless, but beneath the cocky exterior is a young man desperate for approval, navigating a world where he’s often out of his depth. Kankava’s wide-eyed innocence, even in moments of bravado, makes Achi an endearing presence, even when his actions verge on reckless.
But the film’s standout performance comes from Deniz Dumanlı as Evrim, a trans woman and lawyer who becomes a key figure in Lia and Achi’s journey. Evrim’s role is particularly poignant as she represents both the fragility and strength of the marginalized communities in Istanbul. Her portrayal of confidence amidst systemic challenges—whether it’s in her advocacy work or her personal life—adds layers of depth to the film’s overarching themes of identity and belonging. Her presence injects the film with an undeniable heart, embodying both the harsh realities and hopeful aspirations of Istanbul’s trans community.
A Study in Neo-Realism: Blurring the Line Between Story and Documentary
Akin’s direction is firmly rooted in the tradition of Italian Neo-realism, with characters and environments that feel like they’re plucked straight from reality. At times, the film’s raw approach to storytelling makes you feel less like a viewer and more like a fly on the wall, observing the unfolding of these lives without the overt manipulation often found in conventional dramas.
Akin’s collaboration with cinematographer Lisabi Fridell further elevates this aesthetic. The use of natural lighting and handheld camera techniques creates an immersive viewing experience, making Istanbul feel both overwhelming and intimate. Fridell often shoots through windows and doorways, giving the audience a sense of voyeurism, but never at the expense of the characters’ dignity. It’s an approach that builds empathy rather than detachment, allowing viewers to understand the physical and emotional isolation these characters experience.
Istanbul: More Than Just a Backdrop
One of Crossing‘s great achievements is the way it portrays Istanbul, not just as a backdrop, but as an active participant in the narrative. The city’s roiling energy mirrors the characters’ own tumultuous journeys, with its towering mosques and bustling streets providing a stark contrast to the isolation and loss experienced by Lia, Achi, and Evrim. There’s a distinct sense that Istanbul is both a sanctuary and a labyrinth, offering refuge one moment and peril the next. The film captures the dichotomy of Istanbul perfectly—a place of beauty and history, but also one where the marginalized can easily disappear into the shadows.
Thematic Depth: Identity, Loss, and Forgiveness
Beneath the film’s surface lies a rich exploration of identity—both personal and cultural. Lia’s search for Tekla is as much about finding herself as it is about fulfilling her sister’s dying wish. Her interactions with Achi and Evrim reveal the complexity of human relationships, especially when burdened by past trauma. The characters’ journeys of self-discovery and reconciliation are central to the film’s emotional impact.
The film’s LGBTQ+ themes are handled with care and depth, offering a compassionate look at the struggles of trans individuals in conservative societies. Evrim’s story, while not the primary focus, is a critical part of Crossing, providing a lens through which the film examines issues of marginalization and identity.
Final Thoughts: Not for the Faint of Heart (But Definitely for the Film Enthusiast)
Crossing isn’t an easy watch—it’s not meant to be. But for those willing to dive into its depths, the film offers a deeply rewarding experience. It’s a sobering exploration of the human condition, bolstered by powerful performances and a vivid sense of place. Akin’s ability to weave together individual stories into a broader commentary on identity, loss, and the search for belonging is nothing short of masterful.
So, should you cross the proverbial bridge to see Crossing? If you’re in the mood for a feel-good movie, steer clear. But if you appreciate a film that challenges, provokes, and ultimately uplifts through its raw honesty, then Crossing is well worth your time.
