Love Doesn’t Understand Words Drama Review: “Love Doesn’t Understand Words” (Aşk Laftan Anlamaz) is a romantic comedy-drama series that has won the hearts of viewers both in Turkey and internationally. Produced by Bi Yapım and directed by Bahadır İnce, the series aired on Show TV from June 15, 2016, to February 19, 2017. It stars Hande Erçel and Burak Deniz in the lead roles, supported by a talented ensemble cast. This review explores the various elements that make “Love Doesn’t Understand Words” a charming and engaging series, focusing on its plot, characters, themes, cinematography, and overall impact.
Plot Overview
“Love Doesn’t Understand Words” centers around Hayat Uzun (Hande Erçel), a spirited young woman from Giresun, who moves to Istanbul in search of employment and independence. Through a series of misunderstandings and coincidences, she ends up working at Sarte, a prestigious fashion company, under the alias Suna Pektas. There, she meets Murat Sarsılmaz (Burak Deniz), the company’s charismatic and demanding CEO.
The series unfolds as a classic romantic comedy, with Hayat and Murat’s initially antagonistic relationship evolving into a deep and heartfelt romance. The narrative is filled with humorous misunderstandings, romantic tension, and emotional moments, all set against the glamorous backdrop of the Istanbul fashion scene.
Character Analysis
Hayat Uzun / Suna Pektas: Hande Erçel shines as Hayat, bringing a blend of charm, wit, and vulnerability to the role. Hayat is a relatable and endearing character, driven by her aspirations and independence. Erçel’s portrayal captures Hayat’s journey from a small-town girl to a confident woman navigating the complexities of love and career.
Murat Sarsılmaz: Burak Deniz plays Murat, the handsome and stern CEO of Sarte. Murat is initially portrayed as a demanding and aloof figure, but as the series progresses, his softer side is revealed. Deniz’s performance adds depth to Murat, making him a compelling romantic lead whose transformation is integral to the story.
Supporting Characters: The supporting cast includes Didem (Tugçe Karabacak), Murat’s manipulative ex-girlfriend; Tuval (Demet Gül), Hayat’s eccentric and supportive friend; and Kerem (Oğuzhan Karbi), Murat’s loyal assistant. Each character brings their own charm and contributes to the rich tapestry of the narrative, providing humor, conflict, and support to the main storyline.
Themes
“Love Doesn’t Understand Words” explores several themes that resonate with audiences:
Love and Misunderstandings: The series centers around the theme of love blossoming amidst misunderstandings and mistaken identities. Hayat’s initial deception about her identity creates a foundation for numerous comedic and dramatic situations, highlighting how love can thrive despite misunderstandings and obstacles.
Independence and Ambition: Hayat’s journey is one of self-discovery and ambition. Her move to Istanbul symbolizes her desire for independence and self-fulfillment. The series portrays her struggles and triumphs in balancing her career aspirations with her personal life, making her character relatable to many viewers.
Family and Friendship: The importance of family and friendship is a recurring theme. Hayat’s relationships with her friends and family provide emotional support and comic relief. The dynamics between the characters emphasize the value of loyalty, trust, and love in both familial and platonic relationships.
Transformation and Growth: Both Hayat and Murat undergo significant transformations throughout the series. Hayat grows from a naive girl into a confident and assertive woman, while Murat learns to open up and trust again. Their character arcs highlight the importance of personal growth and the impact of love on one’s life.
Cinematography and Production Design
The visual appeal of “Love Doesn’t Understand Words” is significant, with the cinematography capturing the beauty of Istanbul and the glamorous world of fashion. The use of vibrant colors, stylish sets, and fashionable costumes enhances the overall viewing experience, creating a visually pleasing and engaging atmosphere.
The production design effectively contrasts the different worlds the characters inhabit. Hayat’s modest background and the opulent settings of Sarte highlight the social and economic divides that play a role in the narrative. The attention to detail in set design and costume further immerses viewers in the story, adding to the show’s charm and appeal.
Music and Soundtrack
The soundtrack of “Love Doesn’t Understand Words,” composed by Alp Yenier, complements the series’ tone and enhances its emotional impact. The theme song, with its catchy and upbeat melody, sets the mood for the romantic and comedic elements of the show. The background score underscores key moments, heightening the drama and romance, and making the viewing experience more immersive and enjoyable.
Cultural Impact and Reception
“Love Doesn’t Understand Words” received widespread acclaim and quickly became a favorite among Turkish and international audiences. Its blend of romance, comedy, and drama, along with the chemistry between Hande Erçel and Burak Deniz, captivated viewers. The series has been dubbed and broadcast in several countries, contributing to the global popularity of Turkish television dramas.
The lead actors’ performances were particularly praised, with Erçel and Deniz’s on-screen chemistry being a highlight. Their portrayal of the evolving relationship between Hayat and Murat added depth and authenticity to the series, making it a compelling romantic comedy.
The show’s success also sparked discussions on social media and among fans, further cementing its status as a beloved series. “Love Doesn’t Understand Words” helped reinforce the appeal of Turkish dramas in the international market, showcasing their potential for high-quality storytelling and production.
Criticisms
While “Love Doesn’t Understand Words” was widely praised, it did face some criticisms. Some viewers found the plot’s reliance on misunderstandings and coincidences to be overly contrived and repetitive. The series’ tendency to use common romantic comedy tropes and clichés was seen by some as predictable, reducing the element of surprise.
Additionally, the pacing of the series, particularly in the middle episodes, was criticized for being slow, with certain story arcs feeling prolonged. This extended storytelling format, while common in Turkish dramas, may not appeal to viewers accustomed to faster-paced narratives.
Another criticism was the portrayal of female characters in stereotypical roles. While Hayat is a strong and independent protagonist, some supporting female characters were less developed and tended to fall into traditional portrayals, reflecting broader societal norms.
Conclusion
“Love Doesn’t Understand Words” is a delightful Turkish romantic comedy-drama that successfully blends humor, romance, and drama into a captivating narrative. Its charm lies in its relatable characters, engaging storyline, and high production values. The series stands out for the chemistry between its lead actors, Hande Erçel and Burak Deniz, whose performances bring depth and authenticity to the romantic plot.
Despite some criticisms regarding predictability and pacing, “Love Doesn’t Understand Words” remains a beloved series that offers a heartwarming and entertaining viewing experience. Its exploration of love, ambition, and personal growth resonates with audiences, making it a standout entry in the world of Turkish dramas.
For viewers seeking a light-hearted and engaging romantic comedy, “Love Doesn’t Understand Words” provides an excellent and rewarding choice. Its impact on both domestic and international audiences underscores the universal appeal of well-crafted romantic storytelling, making it a significant and influential work in contemporary Turkish television.
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