"The Wild Pear Tree" wends its patient, intelligent way toward a rapprochement between the generations, an acceptance of the past and the land, and a weary wising-up of its central figure.

Recalling the metaphorical lyricism of Ceylan's early films, this is a rare moment where the director trusts ambience over prose.

The progression of the conversations goes a long way in making Wild Pear Tree feel like an epic; the accumulation of ideas feels downright monumental.

The Wild Pear Tree is the Turkish master's funniest film to date. It's also his most political, tackling with delicacy the growing influence of religion and generational conflict.