My Father's Violin - Characters & Cast

Initially, Mehmet is motivated by his career and the pursuit of perfection in his music. He actively avoids emotional connections to protect himself from the pain of his past. His motivation shifts as he gets to know Özlem, and he becomes driven by a desire to protect her and build a family.

Mehmet begins as an arrogant, emotionally detached, and self-centered violin virtuoso. Haunted by a traumatic past, he has built walls around himself. His journey is one of profound transformation, as the responsibility of caring for his niece, Özlem, forces him to confront his demons, understand his brother's sacrifice, and learn to love and connect with others. He evolves from a cold artist to a warm and caring father figure.

Özlem's primary motivation is to find a sense of belonging and family after losing her father. She wants to connect with her uncle and keep the memory and music of her father alive.

Özlem starts as a cheerful and resilient young girl, despite her impoverished upbringing. After her father's death, she faces the challenge of adapting to a new life with her cold uncle. Her arc is one of perseverance and emotional honesty. She doesn't lose her spirit and, through her innocence and love for music, she becomes the catalyst for Mehmet's and Suna's emotional healing and the mending of their family.

Suna is motivated by a desire for a genuine emotional connection and a loving family. She is drawn to Özlem's warmth and sees her as a chance to fill the void in her life and marriage.

Suna is Mehmet's wife, a talented musician who has sacrificed her own career for his. She is initially shown as being emotionally distant from Mehmet due to his ego. She quickly forms a bond with Özlem, seeing in her the child they never had. Suna's arc involves finding her own voice and happiness, both by nurturing Özlem and by eventually reconnecting with Mehmet on a more emotionally honest level.

Ali Riza's main motivation is to ensure his daughter's well-being after his impending death. This leads him to reconnect with his estranged brother. His life has been defined by his love for his family, for whom he made the ultimate sacrifice.

Ali Riza is seen at the beginning of the film as a loving father and a street musician. His character is revealed more fully through flashbacks and stories after his death. His arc is one of selfless love and sacrifice for his younger brother, which is the key to the film's central mystery and emotional resolution.