The Last Nomadic Tribe of Anatolia
GUARDIANS of ANATOLIA follows a family of Sarıkeçili Yörüks, the last female-led nomadic tribe from Anatolia, Türkiye. The film captures their timeless migration and deep bond with nature, highlighting a culture on the brink of extinction through breathtaking visuals and intimate storytelling.
How We Filmed: Passion Behind the Lens, Crafting with Heart
“In the spring of 2018 I joined a Sarıkeçili Yörük family on their migration, living and sleeping in their tents. With just my mom and dad as my crew, we traveled from the lowlands to the high pastures of the Taurus Mountains. This intimate journey revealed to me the deep connection between the Sarıkeçili Yörüks and nature, showing how their harmonious lifestyle shapes their world and ours."
— Elif Koyutürk Hazen, Director & Cinematographer
Meet the Team
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Elif Koyutürk Hazen
Director & Cinematographer
Born in Istanbul, Elif Koyutürk is an acclaimed filmmaker known for her unique storytelling in intimate documentaries. Starting her career at 15, she directs commercials for global brands and primarily focuses on cultural narratives. Her work has earned international recognition for its depth and emotional impact.
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Liz Cardenas
Lead Producer
A Film Independent Spirit Award Winning Producer listed on the 2019 LATINXT, Liz Cardenas was a producer on Augustine Frizzell’s Never Goin’ Back (Sundance 18') and David Lowery’s A Ghost Story (Sundance 17'), starring Rooney Mara and Casey Affleck, both released by A24, among many others. A former journalist, she was raised in Texas by her father who immigrated to US from Mexico.
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Elle Toussi
Producer
An Award-winning Iranian-American journalist and producer. Her investigative work is seen in NY Times and BBC Panorama. In 2020, she created a series starring Leslie Jordan expanding her world into animation. She serves as the chair for the SPJ International Community and Chairwoman of the board of the Freelancers Union. She is first generation Iranian-American based out of Southern California.
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Jeff Consiglio
Editor
Jeff Consiglio's work as a film editor has earned one Academy Award win, a second Academy Award nomination, Emmy awards, a Grammy, Peabody and multiple film festival awards.
GUARDIANS of ANATOLIA is a deeply personal film for me. It is rooted to my own Turkish heritage. It represents my commitment to preserving and sharing the rich cultural legacy of the Sarıkeçili Yörüks. I seek to craft an experience that immerses the audience to the heart of the Sarıkeçili Yörüks' world. I aim to capture the essence of their ancient culture and their harmonious relationship with nature. My goal is to document their story, preserve their cultural heritage for future generations and challenge prevailing stereotypes about indigenous nomadic communities. Through this work, I aspire to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for their unique and resilient way of life.
Director’s Statement
“Rainbow stripes of colors depend on the size of the raindrops. As the drop size changes, the rainbow changes, too. Yörüks' are the rainbow of these lands, with all of their colors and harmony with the hardships of their lifestyle that needs deeper understanding and protection.”
— Elif Koyutürk Hazen, Director & Cinematographer
