Serkan Aktaş is not just an award-winning filmmaker; he is a creator of worlds. Known for his unique fusion of intellectual depth and cinematic artistry, Aktaş has built a career that blends the abstract with the concrete and imagination with logic. As the most award-winning filmmaker in Turkey, with 215 international accolades, he is a trailblazer whose work has captured the attention of film festivals across the globe.
Born with a fascination for both creativity and logic, Aktaş pursued degrees in Business Administration from Anadolu University and Mathematics from Dokuz Eylül University. His academic pursuits weren’t just a foundation for his career—they laid the groundwork for the distinctive way he approaches filmmaking. Aktaş honed his craft further at the Istanbul Cinema Academy, where he graduated with distinction. His academic journey culminated in a Master’s and Doctorate in Film and Television from Beykent University, making him a versatile artist who bridges multiple disciplines in his creative endeavors.
Aktaş’s films delve deep into the realms of fantasy and science fiction. Works like The Librarian (2022), Resurrection Under the Ocean (2021), and Mirrorty (2017) have been celebrated globally, capturing audiences with their visionary narratives and thought-provoking themes. These films explore some of humanity’s biggest questions: What does it mean to be human? What are the boundaries of our curiosity? And how do we navigate the unknown?
In his own words, Aktaş says, “With my intellectual perspective and filmmaker identity, I strive to find solutions to the world’s unsolved real-world problems or contribute to those solutions through making movies. That’s what I do.”
For Aktaş, filmmaking is a way to connect with people, share joy and wonder, and push the boundaries of storytelling. He believes, “The best movie is one that can be watched over and over again.” This perspective drives his creative process, where each film is designed not only to entertain but to engage audiences on a deeper intellectual level. Aktaş blends his love for mathematics and abstract concepts into his films, creating stories that feel like complex equations waiting to be unraveled.
In addition to his films, Aktaş is also an author, having published several books, including The Librarian and Mirrorty. His writings reflect the same intellectual curiosity and creative spirit that permeate his films, offering readers a glimpse into his visionary worlds.
Despite his remarkable success, Aktaş remains grounded in his mission. “I want people to experience the same joy and wonder that cinema brings me,” he says, underscoring his belief that filmmaking is about connection and resonance. His goal is not just to create entertaining stories but to spark reflection to challenge audiences to think more deeply about the world around them.
As the most awarded filmmaker in Turkey, Aktaş’s journey is far from over. He continues to push the limits of what cinema can achieve. Projects like Kanlısırt – The Blood Ridge, a film set during the Gallipoli campaign of World War I, are just a glimpse into what’s next for this visionary director. “I believe that a filmmaker with the most awards should also create the most-watched film,” Aktaş says, and it is clear that his journey is only just beginning.
In this exclusive interview, we delve into the mind of Serkan Aktaş, Turkey’s most-awarded filmmaker, as he shares his unique creative process, the intellectual forces shaping his work, and his ambitious upcoming project, Kanlısırt – The Blood Ridge.
With 215 awards under your belt, making you the most-awarded filmmaker in Turkey, how does this recognition feel, and what does it mean to you personally?
With 215 awards to my name, making me the most-awarded filmmaker in Turkey, I feel both incredibly happy and humbled. However, the true significance of this recognition lies in reaching audiences across the world with my films. My ultimate goal is to conquer their hearts and connect with them deeply. As I often say, “I want people to experience the same joy and wonder that cinema brings me.”
My work isn’t just about the accolades; it’s about making a meaningful contribution to the world. With my intellectual perspective and filmmaker identity, I aim to find solutions to unsolved real-world problems—or at least to contribute to those solutions through the films I create. “That’s what I do.”
I also believe that the best films are those that invite viewers to return to them again and again, finding something new with each viewing. “The best movie is one that can be watched over and over again.” To create such films, I live by a simple mantra: I read every day, watch every day, and write every day. This constant learning and creating is what allows me to craft stories that resonate deeply with audiences and stand the test of time.*
Your films often explore profound intellectual themes, ranging from abstract mathematics to quantum mechanics. How do you integrate these complex ideas into your storytelling?
My interest in abstract mathematics, fractals, and quantum mechanics deeply influences my filmmaking. These concepts feed my imagination and elevate both the narrative and visual language of my films. For example, abstract mathematical thinking—particularly the structural properties of fractals—has played a significant role in shaping the intricate, layered storytelling in my films.
Fractals, such as the Mandelbrot set or the Julia set, create infinite complexity from simple principles. I aim to craft relationships between the smallest details and the grandest structures in a film, much like how a fractal’s infinite complexity unfolds from a basic starting point.
In my film Resurrection Under the Ocean, I sought to combine abstract thinking with visual storytelling. The ocean and the sound of the whale symbolize death and resurrection, and I used the repeating structures of fractals to mirror the protagonist’s spiritual journey. Much like the infinite cycles in a fractal, the character undergoes a never-ending process of transformation. The whale’s two different sounds—one representing death and the other, resurrection—symbolize this journey. This is an example of how abstract concepts in mathematics can harmonize with cinematic storytelling to create meaningful, layered narratives.
In world cinema, films like Being John Malkovich (1999) and Groundhog Day (1993) bend reality and explore philosophical, existential questions. I see similar abstract thinking reflected in these films. Groundhog Day, for instance, portrays a cyclical time loop that parallels the structure of a fractal: A process that begins at the same point, but each time reaches a different place. It demonstrates the power of reflecting abstract thoughts in a concrete cinematic experience.
Additionally, films like Dark City (1998) and Pitch Black (2000) challenge our perception of reality and the unknown while exploring survival. These films transcend the boundaries of science fiction and offer us the opportunity to consider the effects of abstract theories like quantum mechanics on human perception. They exemplify how mathematical abstractions and visual storytelling can merge to create unique, thought-provoking cinematic experiences.
For me, abstract mathematics, fractals, and quantum mechanics are not just academic pursuits—they are integral to how I shape my films. By transforming these abstract concepts into concrete visual and emotional experiences, I aim to offer audiences a rich, immersive journey that stimulates both the intellect and the emotions.
What keeps you motivated to create and innovate within the world of filmmaking?
For me, filmmaking is not just a career; it’s a way to contribute something meaningful to the world. “I want people to experience the same joy and wonder that cinema brings me.” That’s the heart of my motivation. Cinema has this unique power to stir the imagination, to make people feel deeply, and to open their minds to new possibilities. I want my films to have that same effect on others—that same sense of awe and discovery.
At the core, I’m driven by a desire to create films that matter. It’s not just about making something visually stunning or emotionally powerful; it’s about addressing deeper questions, solving problems, and challenging the status quo. As I often say, “Read every day, watch every day, write every day, and then make your movie.” This discipline keeps me growing as an artist and fuels my creativity. By constantly immersing myself in new ideas and perspectives, I stay inspired to innovate and push boundaries.
I believe the true power of filmmaking lies in its ability to shape the way people think and offer them new ways of seeing the world. I want to make films that, years from now, people will still be discussing—films that continue to challenge, inspire, and spark meaningful conversations. That’s what keeps me creating and innovating, day after day.
Your films frequently challenge audiences to think in new ways. How do you maintain a balance between intellectual depth and captivating storytelling?
Balancing intellectual themes with compelling storytelling is a delicate and exciting process for me. As a filmmaker, I strive to use cinema as a medium for addressing real-world problems and exploring profound concepts. However, I believe that these ideas should be seamlessly integrated into the narrative so that they enrich the story without overwhelming the audience.
One of the most important aspects of balancing these elements is finding the right metaphors to express complex ideas. For instance, in The Librarian, the sea serves as a powerful symbol of the protagonist’s inner journey and emotional struggles. In Resurrection under the Ocean, the metaphor of resurrection is interwoven with a character’s psychological rebirth. The sea, the ocean, and other visual symbols are not just aesthetic choices—they are deeply connected to the emotional and intellectual themes I want to explore.
I also rely on my background in mathematics to structure my narratives in a way that maintains coherence. Mathematical concepts, like fractals or the cyclical nature of time, provide a solid framework for exploring abstract ideas while ensuring that the story feels grounded. These concepts help me create films that are intellectually stimulating yet accessible to a wider audience. For example, in Mirrorty, the metaphor of black mirrors allows me to examine the digital age’s impact on our sense of connection while using psychological and existential themes to anchor the fantastical elements.
Ultimately, the goal is to create a film that can be enjoyed on multiple levels. I want my audience to experience both the wonder of cinema and the thought-provoking ideas that come with it. As I always say, “I want people to experience the same joy and wonder that cinema brings me.” The best films are those that can be revisited, and with every viewing, they offer something new—be it a deeper understanding of the themes or a more profound emotional connection. So, the key to balancing intellectual themes with storytelling is making sure that the story flows naturally while also leaving room for the audience to think critically and reflect.
Fantasy and science fiction play a significant role in your work. What draws you to these genres, and how do they offer a platform to explore intricate ideas?
Fantasy and science fiction have always been central to my storytelling because they allow me the freedom to explore limitless possibilities. As a mathematician, I’m drawn to the beauty of complexity—like the patterns and structures found in fractals—and these genres provide the perfect space for that. With sci-fi and fantasy, there are no boundaries to the imagination. Concepts such as the Mandelbrot set or the Julia set, which emerge from simple principles to form infinite complexity, mirror how I approach storytelling. These genres give me the ability to craft worlds where the extraordinary feels natural, and ideas that seem abstract can come to life in compelling ways.
I’ve been fascinated by science fiction since my childhood. Films like Robocop and superhero stories like Superman and Batman had a profound impact on me, showing me a world where technology, humanity, and imagination merge. They opened up a universe where anything was possible, and that concept still drives me. Fantasy and sci-fi are my outlet to push the boundaries of what’s imaginable and to use those possibilities to ask bigger questions—questions about the unknown, about human potential, and about the challenges we face in the real world.
Ultimately, these genres allow me to blend my intellectual curiosity with the creative space to dream. They offer a canvas where abstract mathematical ideas can meet emotional storytelling, creating films that are both intellectually stimulating and visually stunning. Sci-fi and fantasy offer me the room to experiment with new ideas, while staying grounded in themes that are relevant to our world.
You express yourself through various mediums—films, books, and theoretical concepts. How do these different forms of creative expression influence and inform each other in your creative process?
For me, the key is continuous learning and feeding my mind with a diverse range of input. I firmly believe that “the more input, the more output.” I make it a daily habit to read every day, watch every day, write every day, and then make your movie. This helps keep my creative process dynamic and evolving.
Books, especially classic literature, play a huge role in shaping my storytelling approach. I recommend immersing oneself in works by authors like Cervantes, Shakespeare, Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, Jack London, and Charles Dickens. Russian literature is also key—Dostoevsky, Tolstoy, Pushkin, Turgenev—along with Edgar Allan Poe, Asimov, and Ambrose Bierce. But it’s important not to limit ourselves to Western literature. Writers from Eastern traditions also offer profound insights into the human condition and storytelling. The works of Mevlana (Rumi), Sadi Şirazi, Ferîdüddin Attâr, and İbn Tufeyl (with his philosophical tale Hay Bin Yakzan) bring a deep spiritual and intellectual dimension to the craft. Firdevsî’s Shahnameh is another monumental work that connects literature with history and mythology. These literary greats offer profound insights into human nature and character development, which are essential for any storyteller.
From ancient Greek tragedies and comedies to the modern intricacies of Marcel Proust, reading these works enriches my understanding of the human experience. When it comes to filmmaking, the themes, emotions, and character arcs I encounter in literature influence how I approach storytelling, creating depth and complexity in my films. A well-rounded grasp of literature and film is invaluable for any director’s journey, and it ultimately informs every aspect of my work.
As someone who constantly pushes boundaries and seeks to merge intellectual depth with cinematic creativity, what do you hope your legacy as a filmmaker will be, and what impact do you wish to leave on the industry and audiences worldwide?
My ultimate goal as a filmmaker is to create work that leaves a lasting impact, not just in terms of entertainment but in how it resonates with the world. With my intellectual perspective and filmmaker identity, I strive to find solutions to the world’s unsolved real-world problems or contribute to those solutions through making movies. That’s what I do. I want to create films that go beyond simple storytelling—they should challenge audiences, provoke thought, and inspire action. If my films can be a small part of a larger conversation about how to approach the world’s most pressing issues, whether it’s war, identity, or existential struggle, then I will consider my work successful.
At the same time, I hope to leave a legacy that reflects the power of cinema to push boundaries, merge intellectual depth with emotional storytelling, and most importantly, show that film can be a tool for change. I want to be remembered not just for my creative achievements but for contributing to the betterment of society by telling stories that matter.
Could you share more about your upcoming project, Kanlısırt – The Blood Ridge? What inspired the film, and what can audiences look forward to?
Kanlısırt – The Blood Ridge is a project that is very close to my heart. The film is set during World War I and focuses on the intense, historic battle between the Turkish and British armies at Gallipoli, specifically at the site known as the Blood Ridge. It’s a story deeply rooted in the search for redemption, both on a personal and societal level.
What inspired this film was my emotional response to a BBC drama I watched called All the King’s Men (1999), which depicts the mysterious disappearance of the Sandringham Company during the Gallipoli campaign. The way the story captured the depth of sacrifice and the mystique surrounding those events stayed with me. That film sparked something in me, and I felt compelled to tell a different story from a different perspective — one that focuses not only on the horrors of war but also on the internal struggle and redemption of the individual.
The central character in Kanlısırt is a man who has wronged his brother over an inheritance and, upon learning that his brother is near death, feels a deep sense of guilt. Seeking peace and redemption, he volunteers to fight in the war and ultimately ends up at Gallipoli, where his personal journey intertwines with the larger historical tragedy at Blood Ridge. The film aims to explore themes of guilt, redemption, and the emotional consequences of war. It is also a reflection on how individuals can change and confront their past in the face of overwhelming adversity.
For the audience, I hope Kanlısırt will offer a powerful experience. It will be both emotionally charged and visually intense as we follow the protagonist’s journey through personal and external battles. The story is not just about war; it is about what happens inside the heart of a person when faced with unimaginable circumstances and the lengths one will go to for the possibility of redemption.
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I’ve set high ambitions for this film, as I aim to make it the most-watched film in Turkey, with a goal of reaching 13.5 million viewers. As the most-awarded filmmaker in Turkey, I feel it is important to also strive for the highest level of viewership, and I believe Kanlısırt has the potential to resonate deeply with audiences.
In conclusion, Serkan Aktaş continues to push the boundaries of storytelling, seamlessly blending intellectual depth, profound emotional narratives, and visually striking creativity. His dedication to crafting films that challenge the status quo and inspire audiences worldwide speaks to his commitment to the art of filmmaking. As he embarks on future projects like Kanlısırt – The Blood Ridge, Aktaş’s visionary approach promises to captivate audiences and elevate cinema to new heights. With an unwavering passion for his craft and a drive to solve real-world issues through film, his journey is one to watch.
Stay connected with Serkan Aktaş and follow his journey as he continues to reshape the world of cinema.
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