Distant (2002)
Kernel Score: 78% · 254 ratings
Genres: Drama
Released: 2002-12-20
Runtime: 106 minutes
Where to watch Distant
- Free with ads: Kanopy
US availability, updated 2026-10-23.
Overview
A young man from rural Turkey arrives in Istanbul with dreams of working on a ship and stays with a cousin while he searches for work. Over time, the former’s struggles to find employment and the latter’s troubles and disappointments strain their relationship and living situation.
Distant parents' guide: ages 11+
Parents need to know that this Turkish drama is a quiet, contemplative look at loneliness, unemployment, and strained family relationships.
Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.
Movies like Distant
If you liked Distant, these are the movies we'd watch next.
- The Old Oak (2023) — 80%
- Mr. Church (2016) — 85%
- At Eternity's Gate (2018) — 79%
- Nomadland (2021) — 80%
- I, Daniel Blake (2016) — 87%
- Bicycle Thieves (1948) — 89%
- The Fire Within (1963) — 85%
- Manchester by the Sea (2016) — 84%
Director
Cast
- Muzaffer Özdemir as Mahmut
- Mehmet Emin Toprak as Yusuf
- Zuhal Gencer as Nazan (as Zuhal Gencer Erkaya)
- Nazan Kesal as Lover (as Nazan Kırılmış)
- Feridun Koç as Janitor
- Fatma Ceylan as Mother
- Ebru Ceylan as Woman (as Ebru Yapıcı)
- Bahattin Serter
- Nazlı Aydın
- Engin Hepsev
Distant FAQ
Is Distant good?
Distant has a 78% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 254 audience ratings.
Where can I watch Distant?
In the US you can watch it free with ads on Kanopy.
Is Distant OK for kids?
Fresh Kernels suggests ages 11+. Parents need to know that this Turkish drama is a quiet, contemplative look at loneliness, unemployment, and strained family relationships.
What movies are like Distant?
If you liked Distant, try The Old Oak, Mr. Church, At Eternity's Gate and Nomadland.