Oral History Study on Erotic Cinema: Turkish Cinema from 1974 to 1980


Zengin F., Kapır B.

CINEJ Cinema Journal, vol.13, no.2, pp.531-580, 2025 (ESCI, Scopus) identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 13 Issue: 2
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.5195/cinej.2025.752
  • Journal Name: CINEJ Cinema Journal
  • Journal Indexes: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, Film & Television Literature Index, International Index to Film Periodicals, MLA - Modern Language Association Database, Directory of Open Access Journals
  • Page Numbers: pp.531-580
  • Keywords: cinema projectionists, erotic cinema, oral history, sex film influx, Turkish cinema
  • Istanbul Gelisim University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study examines the “erotic film influx” period in Turkish cinema between 1974 and 1980. The research was conducted using information obtained from semi-structured interviews conducted with individuals who worked as projectionists during the erotic era, using a qualitative research design, such as oral history. The new developments that emerged during the influx were explored through the observations of the film projectionists, testimonies, memories, and experiences. Therefore, the study excluded the production practices of erotic films and focused on the distribution and exhibition of these films. The study found that the erotic film influx in Türkiye quickly created a new audience and cultural atmosphere which resulted in the emergence of a new, male-dominated audience, isolated from their families.