Tabu is a 2017 American drama film written, directed, and produced by David Robert Deranian. The film explores forbidden love, cultural divisions, and the painful historical legacy of the Armenian Genocide of 1915.
The story follows David, an Armenian college student, and Leyla, a young Turkish woman. Despite the deep historical and cultural tensions between their communities, the two develop feelings for each other. Their relationship challenges the expectations surrounding their identities and forces them to confront a history that continues to influence the present.
Blending romance with historical drama, Tabu examines whether love can overcome inherited prejudice and whether two people can build a future together when the past remains such a powerful presence in their lives.
Movie Summary
David is an Armenian college student whose background connects him to a history of suffering and loss. Like many young people, he is trying to build his own future, but the weight of history remains an important part of his identity.
His life changes when he meets Leyla, a young Turkish woman. Despite their different cultural backgrounds, the two develop a strong attraction and begin a relationship that neither of them initially expects.
However, their romance is far from simple. The historical hostility between Armenian and Turkish communities creates an emotional and social barrier that neither can easily ignore. Their families, cultural traditions, and the memories passed down through generations all influence how their relationship is perceived.
As David and Leyla grow closer, they must confront difficult questions about identity, loyalty, and the meaning of forgiveness. Their feelings for each other challenge the assumptions surrounding their respective communities, but the past cannot simply be erased.
The Armenian Genocide of 1915 becomes a central part of their emotional journey. The tragedy represents more than a historical event: it is a painful memory that continues to shape family histories and relationships long after the original events have passed.
As the young couple attempts to follow their hearts, circumstances beyond their control threaten to change their lives. Their forbidden relationship becomes a test of courage, understanding, and the possibility of reconciliation.
Tabu presents a dramatic story about two people trying to find happiness despite the divisions inherited from history.
Star Cast
- Jacob Waldron as David – An Armenian college student who falls in love with Leyla. His relationship forces him to confront the difficult connection between personal happiness and historical memory.
- Surrah Derleth as Leyla – A young Turkish woman who develops feelings for David despite the cultural and historical barriers surrounding their relationship.
- Reggie Peters as Jared – A supporting character whose role contributes to the story’s contemporary setting.
- Dominic Anaya as Mehmet – A character connected to the Turkish side of the story.
- Scott Asmar as Father – A father figure whose perspective reflects the importance of family and cultural background.
- Ann Ayres as Grandma – An older family member associated with the memories and traditions that shape the younger generation.
- Janice Caprelian as Yasmin – A supporting character in the film.
- Anthony Belevtsov as Armen – A character connected to the Armenian community.
- David Robert Deranian as Aydin – The film’s writer and director also appears in the cast.
What Makes Tabu Worth Watching?
1. A Forbidden Love Story
At the center of the film is a romance that crosses deeply rooted cultural boundaries. David and Leyla’s relationship is not simply about two young people falling in love; it raises questions about whether personal feelings can overcome the divisions created by history.
2. The Weight of Historical Memory
The Armenian Genocide of 1915 provides the historical foundation for the story. The film explores how historical trauma can remain present in the lives of later generations, influencing their relationships, identities, and understanding of the world.
3. Love Against Cultural Divisions
The relationship between David and Leyla highlights the challenges faced by people whose backgrounds place them on opposite sides of a historical conflict. Their story encourages viewers to consider the difference between inherited prejudice and individual choice.
4. A Contemporary Perspective on an Historical Tragedy
Rather than presenting the story solely through a historical setting, Tabu connects the events of the past with the experiences of modern young people. This approach gives the film a contemporary emotional perspective.
5. Questions About Forgiveness and Reconciliation
The film raises difficult questions about whether individuals can move beyond historical grievances without ignoring the suffering of previous generations. Its central relationship becomes a symbol of the complicated possibilities of understanding and reconciliation.
Movie Details
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Title | Tabu |
| Release Year | 2017 |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Drama, Romance |
| Director | David Robert Deranian |
| Writer | David Robert Deranian |
| Producer | David Robert Deranian |
| Production Company | Salient Clear LLC |
| Main Cast | Jacob Waldron, Surrah Derleth, Reggie Peters, Dominic Anaya, Scott Asmar |
| Cinematography | Ramón Rosario |
| Original Music | Tasos Eliopoulos |
| Runtime | Approximately 90 minutes |
| Release Year | 2017 |
Where to Watch Tabu
Tabu was released in 2017 and has been listed on several digital movie platforms. Depending on regional availability, viewers may find it through streaming services such as Tubi, Prime Video, or other digital rental and distribution platforms.