Howling for God (1997)

Storyline

Sheik Ekrem hates Sheik Erol. In this fragile, unsteady society, far from God and traditional Sufism, their petty quarrel focuses on the issue of which group will pierce themselves at the Nevruz ceremony. These Dervishes practice a form of Islamic yoga consisting of rhythmic movements, repetitive chants and controlled breathing. During the ceremony, the Dervishes pierce their face, neck or limbs with nails and spikes. In their state of trance no blood flows. But the mystical market place is over-crowded. Each Sheik attempts to attract the greatest number of faithful and thus diminish the importance of his rival.