Hicran defies her father’s wishes and refuses to get married to Rıza. Instead of succumbing to societal pressures, she flees her small hometown and seeks refuge in Istanbul. Initially, Rıza appears to take her decision calmly, but soon finds himself compelled to confront the woman who has rejected him. In his first film in seven years, Zeki Demirkubuz revisits his cherished themes of unrequited love, obsession, betrayal, and jealousy. Hayat emerges as a dark, haunting film reminiscent of fan favorites such as Masumiyet (Innocence, 1997) and Kader (Destiny, 2006). While staying true to his signature themes and style, Demirkubuz also skillfully toys with the clichés of his cinematic world. (BG)