Tolga Ornek, a visionary filmmaker, launched his remarkable career in the cinematic realm by conceptualizing, overseeing the production of, and expertly guiding several prize-winning documentary films that secured widespread international recognition and garnered widespread critical acclaim, solidifying his reputation as a master of his craft.
The documentary filmmaker's inaugural feature, aptly titled ATATURK, debuted in 1998, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
Two years later, in 2000, he released MOUNT NEMRUD: THE THRONE OF THE GODS, a documentary that garnered widespread acclaim and attention.
In 2003, he turned his attention to THE HITTITES, a documentary that further cemented his reputation as a master of his craft.
Finally, in 2005, he released GALLIPOLI, a documentary that not only resonated deeply with Turkish audiences but also achieved remarkable commercial success, securing the fifth highest-grossing spot in Turkey that year.
Notably, GALLIPOLI's success was not limited to Turkey, as it was also released in various international markets, including Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, thereby solidifying its status as a global phenomenon.
Tolga's remarkable contributions to his field were formally acknowledged and celebrated through the conferral of an esteemed honorary medal, the Order of Australia, bestowed upon him by the Australian government in a gesture of profound recognition and appreciation.
Tolga's creative endeavors in 2008 took a significant turn as he embarked on a multifaceted project, co-writing, producing, and directing his inaugural feature film, CARS OF THE REVOLUTION. This cinematic masterpiece is a thought-provoking portrayal of a pivotal moment in Turkish history, delving into the true story of the pioneering production of the country's first-ever automobile in the year 1961. As the film's premiere unfolded, it garnered widespread critical acclaim from both domestic and international audiences, ultimately earning a multitude of prestigious awards.
Tolga's subsequent cinematic endeavour, 'THE LOSERS CLUB', a project that showcased his multifaceted talents as co-writer, producer, and director, made its way to the big screens in March 2011.
Inspired by a cult, irreverent radio show that originated in the 1990s, this film captivated audiences upon its release, subsequently achieving a remarkable status as a box office and cult phenomenon.
As a testament to its enduring impact, 'THE LOSERS CLUB' has secured a place among the finest Turkish films ever produced, solidifying Tolga's reputation as a visionary filmmaker.
Tolga Ornek's third cinematic endeavour, titled LABYRINTH, is a gripping present-day espionage thriller that premiered in 2012 across various territories in Turkey and select regions of Europe and South America. This critically acclaimed and widely popular motion picture served as a springboard for Tolga's transition to the entertainment hub of Los Angeles.
Tolga is presently engaged in the development of a novel television series, titled THE SYNDICATE, which he has conceived and created. This international production follows the exploits of a clandestine DEA Task force as they strive to disrupt and ultimately dismantle a highly organized and far-reaching international heroin syndicate. This syndicate, operating with cunning and sophistication, is responsible for smuggling large quantities of illicit drugs from Afghanistan to various destinations throughout Europe.
Tolga's creative endeavors extend far beyond his work on THE SYNDICATE, as he has also ventured into the realm of romantic comedies with YOUR STORY, a film deeply personal in nature, drawing heavily from his own life experiences.
Moreover, Tolga's impressive repertoire also includes his adaptation and direction of the Turkish version of the widely acclaimed Mexican hit, INSTRUCTIONS NOT INCLUDED, which premiered in 2016.
Tolga's extensive career has been marked by a plethora of creative endeavors, as he has successfully written, produced, and directed a staggering ten films that exemplify his remarkable versatility as a filmmaker. This impressive body of work has afforded him the opportunity to travel to a diverse array of locations, including the culturally rich and historically significant Turkey, the ancient and mystical Egypt, the industrious and innovative Germany, the vibrant and laid-back Australia, and the breathtakingly beautiful and rugged New Zealand.
Tolga's odyssey in the United States has spanned an impressive duration of more than fourteen years, during which he has resided in a diverse array of locations. His initial sojourn in Rhode Island was followed by a subsequent relocation to Florida, where he remained for a period of time before making the move to the nation's capital, Washington DC. His tenure in the nation's capital was eventually brought to a close, and he relocated to New York, where he resided for a time before embarking on a transatlantic journey to London, England. After his time in London, Tolga made the move to Italy, where he remained for a period before ultimately settling in the vibrant city of Los Angeles.
