From the ruins of the Ottoman Empire, at a time when almost all of the Islamic world was falling under the dominance of European imperial powers, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk managed not just to preserve but secure Turkey's independence. 

Designed primarily for non-Turkish viewers, Tolda Örnek’s documentary has a portentous narration by Sir Donald Sinden, focusing mostly on Atatürk’s qualities as a leader as well as an inspiration to others. His shortcomings (drinking and smoking too much, as well as an inability to relate to his wife) are not overlooked, but Örnek suggests that they were chiefly due to his obsession with work. He had a lot to do in a very short time and achieved it.

Tolga Örnek (born 25 August 1972) is a Turkish film director, writer and producer who, in recognition of his 2005 documentary, Gallipoli, was awarded an honorary medal in the general division of the Order of Australia.

He studied at the Robert College and later at the Istanbul Technical University. He received his MS in engineering from the University of Florida and his MA in Film and Video Production from American University. Since his Gallipoli documentary, he's moved into feature films by producing, directing and writing four feature films. He is also the director of Losers' Club, which is one of the highest grossing Turkish films ever produced. His film, Labyrinth, an action thriller, has received wide international acclaim and has been distributed worldwide.