MFA Film and the Turkish American Cultural Society of New England proudly present the 19th Boston Turkish Festival’s Documentary and Short Film Competition. The festival opens with the international premiere of Tears of Cem Karaca, a biopic by Yüksel Aksu about the legendary musician known for his influential role in Turkey’s rock and pop music, as well as his political activism. Also screening is a remastered version of Fatih Akin’s 2005 documentary Crossing the Bridge: The Sound of Istanbul, offering a vivid look at the city’s diverse music scene.

The competition starts with in-person screenings at the MFA on November 23 and 24. The festival continues online from November 25 to December 6. See the full schedule.

In addition to jury awards for Best Documentary and Best Short Film, Audience Awards are announced. The jury includes Dr. Kurt Fendt, Peter Keough, and Erin Trahan.