Religious fundamentalism has grown with political and economic polarization. Rapid industrialization has also posed many cultural challenges for people who have moved from an urban to rural economy in one generation. The Turkish film industry is commercial, and has been extremely prolific, producing up to 200 films a year for local audiences, typically melodramatic, sentimental and action films. The films get a wide distribution, even in rural areas, with travelling cinemas. The industry also imports many international films, especially action films.
Turkish production is often shamelessly imitative of international hits.
There is government censorship from the script onward. The film after winning its three Cannes awards went on to successful international release. Yol is fascinating because shows so clearly its roots in international entertainment film, and simultaneously exposes the social and psychological tensions behind the headlines.