In celebration of the debut of The St. Regis Istanbul, which opened March 1 and marked the brand’s entry into Turkey, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts last week premiered an original short film written and directed by John Malkovich.
Starring Julian Sands and Turkish actress Bel?im Bilgin, “A Postcard from Istanbul” follows a screenwriter, played by Sands, who goes to Istanbul with the hopes of finding inspiration to write a screenplay based on a novel he has long admired. A beautiful guide, played by Bilgin, introduces him to the city’s sights, sounds and flavors. The five-minute film, produced by Katrina Pavlos and IN-House, is set to a soundtrack with music by Turkish jazz musician Ilhan Ersahin and features the poem “I am Listening to Istanbul” by Turkish poet Orhan Veli Kanik.
“A Postcard from Istanbul is based on a concept I conceived on one of my many journeys to Istanbul, a city I have long revered and have grown to love,” Malkovich said. “Being in Istanbul is like being in a dream cloaked in dazzling colors, intriguing sounds and a cornucopia of flavors. Together with St. Regis, I hope to bring to screen the allure and richness that this remarkable destination has to offer.”
“It made perfect sense to work with John on this film, which pays homage to the beauty, the mystery, the history and the people of Istanbul as we debut our first St. Regis hotel in Turkey in the heart of this wonderful city,” said Jenni Benzaquen, Vice President, Luxury Brands, Starwood Hotels & Resorts – Europe, Africa and Middle East.