Ustaoglu is no stranger to the prestigious Basque festival, having previously claimed the top prize, the Golden Shell, in 2008 for her critically acclaimed film "Pandora's Box," which also earned its lead actress, Tsilla Chelton, the Silver Shell for Best Actress. Her return marks a significant moment for the festival, showcasing a director known for her compelling narratives and insightful character studies.

"What Remains" centers on Elif, a poet portrayed by Turkish star Öykü Karayel, who embarks on a transformative journey to break free from the constraints of her mundane existence. Her quest is to reconnect with her inner voice and creative spirit, challenging not only her own perceptions but also prompting those around her — including her family — to re-evaluate their lives. Metin Akdülger co-stars as Mehmet, alongside Ali Kayra Kul as Selim and İlyas Salman as Mustafa.

The film, which Ustaoglu describes as a deeply personal project, originated from a profound sense of unease. She shared that "What Remains" began to take shape "precisely when I started asking this question again" regarding love and connection, adding, "It grew out of a desire to break free from a sense of suffocation and weariness — one I had begun to witness not only in myself, but in the people around me." Ustaoglu views this suffocation as a "systemic cycle" that standardizes lives and drains creative potential, making the only escape "to stop everything, step outside it all, leave, look, and try to understand.”

An exclusive first look at the film, shared via The Hollywood Reporter, offers a glimpse into the emotional core of "What Remains." The clip features a poignant exchange between Elif and Mehmet, highlighted by his raw question, "Do you even love me anymore?" This scene underscores the film's exploration of intimate relationships and personal truth.

The production of "What Remains" is a collaborative international effort, led by Ustaoglu Film from Turkey, with co-producers including Luxembourg’s Tarantula, Bulgaria’s RFF International, and France’s Cite Films. Mubi, which is also a co-producer and owns The Match Factory, has secured all rights for distribution in Turkey, while The Match Factory itself is managing global sales. Additional co-producers include Pak Ventures and Yuvision, with Istos Film collaborating on the project.

The 74th San Sebastián Film Festival runs from September 18-26, providing a prominent platform for Ustaoglu's highly anticipated return to its competitive lineup.