The Herd 1979
Traveling from a remote Anatolian village to Ankara in 1979, a struggling peasant family risks everything to sell their last sheep—a lifeline threatened by a bitter blood feud.
Director: Zeki Ökten
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Herd (1979) about?
Set against a rural blood feud, this 1979 Turkish drama follows a peasant family as they embark on a dangerous train trip to Ankara to sell their last sheep. Along the way, they face corruption, theft, and a medical emergency that threatens to derail their fragile plans.
Who directed The Herd?
The Herd was directed by Zeki Ökten, a celebrated Turkish filmmaker known for his socially conscious dramas that highlight human struggles against systemic barriers.
Who stars in The Herd?
The film stars Tarık Akan as the determined family head, with Melike Demirağ, Tuncel Kurtiz, Levent İnanır, and Yaman Okay rounding out the key cast.
Is The Herd (1979) worth watching?
For fans of gritty, character-driven dramas, The Herd offers a compelling glimpse into 1970s Turkish rural life. While unrated on IMDb, its themes of resilience and sacrifice resonate strongly within its genre.
How long is The Herd?
The Herd runs for 117 minutes.
About The Herd (1979) — A Turkish drama of sacrifice and survival on a perilous journey
Traveling from a remote Anatolian village to Ankara in 1979, a struggling peasant family risks everything to sell their last sheep—a lifeline threatened by a bitter blood feud. Under director Zeki Ökten's sharp eye, their cramped train journey becomes a heart-wrenching odyssey through bureaucracy, corruption, and hardship. With each bribe to petty officials and every setback—stolen livestock, overcrowded wagons, and a family member's worsening illness—their fragile hopes unravel. This Turkish drama paints a stark portrait of survival, sacrifice, and the crushing weight of tradition in a rapidly changing world.
The Herd (1979) delivers raw emotional power, blending social realism with intimate storytelling. Featuring standout performances from Tarık Akan and Melike Demirağ, the film immerses viewers in a claustrophobic atmosphere of economic desperation and familial bonds tested to their limits. It's more than a journey—it's a testament to resilience in the face of insurmountable odds.