Diksha Sundriyal
One of the great things about Netflix is that it has opened the audience to international content in an unprecedented way. With endless movies and TV shows at our disposal, it can get somewhat overwhelming to decide what to watch next. Every year, a new slate of content from a different country is added to the streaming service. Amidst all of them, Turkish TV shows have managed to carve out a place for themselves, delivering everything from romance and thriller to mind-bending shows that make you question the nature of reality.
19. The Life and Movies of Ersan Kuneri (2022- )
Created by Cem Yilmaz, ‘The Life and Movies of Ersan Kuneri’ is a comedy series that centers on an adult-film director, Ersan Kuneri (Cem Yılmaz), who has just been released from prison. Set in 1980s Turkey, the series follows Kuneri, as he, contrary to other people’s expectations of him returning to direct XXX films, opts to direct a historical drama. What follows is a campy take on how a film is made, presented with a spread of humor and drama. A new kind of comedy series presented in a sharp, humorous tone, ‘The Life and Movies of Ersan Kuneri’ offers an entertaining watch. It can be streamed here.
18. Midnight at the Pera Palace (2022- )
Inspired by the historical non-fiction book ‘Midnight at the Pera Palace: The Birth of Modern Istanbul’ by Charles King, ‘Midnight at the Pera Palace’ is directed by Emre Şahin and Nisan Dag. The gripping time travel drama centers on young journalist Esra (Hazal Kaya), who is working on an article about the famed Pera Palace Hotel in Istanbul. She arrives at the hotel and learns more about its past, including an assassination attempt in 1919 on Mustafa Kemal, the founding father of Turkey, who was saved by one of the hotel’s guests. Esra is inadvertently transported back to 1919 and finds herself struggling to prevent the assassination attempt on Kemal. A gripping and visually captivating drama that blends time travel with real historical events and facts, ‘Midnight at the Pera Palace’ is an enriching experience. It can be streamed here.
17. Creature (2023)
Written and directed by Çağan Irmak, ‘Creature’ is a sci-fi fantasy miniseries set in Ottoman-Era Istanbul. It follows young, intelligent, and adventurous medical student Ziya (Taner Ölmez), who is obsessed with whatever there is after death. His thirst brings him face to face with Ihsan (Erkan Kolçak Köstendil), a talented doctor on the verge of madness.
As the two search for the meaning of death and its purpose, they get their hands on an ancient text, ‘The Book Of Resurrections,’ that helps them create something that proves death futile but with dire consequences. While the series borrows its plot from an age-old narrative that you may have already guessed, there are elements in the film that make it enjoyable. It is dark and has its perks as a sci-fi fantasy that takes place in a certain period in history. You can watch ‘Creature’ here.
16. Another Self (2022-)
Created by Nuran Evren Sit, ‘Another Self’ is a rom-com drama about three women- Ada (Tuba Büyüküstün), a surgeon, Sevgi (Boncuk Yılmaz), a lawyer, and Leyla (Seda Bakan), a social media influencer- who go on a road trip to the seaside village of Ayvalik, Turkey, to rid themselves of the baggage of their pasts. Also, Sevgi’s cancer has relapsed, and Ayvalik is home to a healer who she believes can cure her. Thus, her friends Ada and Leyla also join her on the trip. The trip becomes one of spiritual healing for our trio of ladies, each of whom finds her answer in Ayvalik. How? Well, you have to watch this series to find out. You can do so right here.
15. Kübra (2024-)
What would you do if you realized that God was speaking to you? Would you feel special? Or powerful? Or scared? In ‘Kübra,’ adapted from Afşin Kum’s eponymous book, protagonist Gökhan also wonders the same. When he starts receiving messages from an unknown account named Kübra on the religious texting app SoulTouch, he initially ignores them. But he soon realizes that Kübra’s information is about events from the future and believes Kübra is God. As Gökhan begins acting on the information, he earns followers, supporters, and, naturally, enemies who believe he is playing God. But is he? Or is Kübra, whoever it is, playing God and manipulating Gökhan? Directed by the Tylar Brothers (Durul and Yağmur Taylan), the series stars Çağatay Ulusoy as Gökhan, along with Aslıhan Malbora, Ahsen Eroğlu, Nazan Kesal, and Ahmet Mümtaz Taylan. You can watch it here.
14. Who Were We Running From? (2023- )
Directed by Umut Aral, this crime thriller is based on Turkish author Perihan Mağden’s novel ‘Whom Were We Running From?’ The series follows a mother-daughter duo, Mother (Melisa Sözen) and Bambi (Eylül Tumbar), as they hop from one luxury hotel to another, not returning to the same hotel. They have been doing it for quite some time because Mother believes that a threat is following them. Soon, dead bodies begin to pile up, and it is Mother whom the evidence points at. Will Bambi be of any help to her mother, or will it do her better to escape? To find out, you can stream ‘Who Were We Running From?’ here.
13. As the Crow Flies (2022)
Created by Meriç Acemi, ‘As the Crow Flies’ showcases a war between ego and ambition. When teenage intern Asli Tuna (Miray Daner) meets the woman of her dreams, seasoned news anchor Lale Kiran (Birce Akalay), one of Turkey’s best and the host of the show The Other Side, Asli is at a loss for words. However, Kiran’s cold words only make her more determined to make her way into Kiran’s newsroom and take over, if not pull her down. Soon, Asli manages to use social media to create a fake invitation and reach the news network where Kiran works. What follows is how Asli tries to be at level with Lale in a world where the desire to be seen reigns supreme. Their dynamic is underscored by the politics of a newsroom and makes for a gripping drama. The rest of the ‘As the Crow Flies’ cast includes İbrahim Çelikkol, Burak Yamantürk, İrem Sak, and Defne Kayalar. You can watch the show here.
12. The Tailor (2023)
In the heart of Istanbul, ‘The Tailor‘ (original title Terzi) knits a web of mystery and family bonds. Centered around Peyami Dokumacı, a gifted young tailor who inherits his talent and thriving business from his grandfather, the series takes an intriguing turn after the old man’s demise. With his father, Mustafa, harboring a profound secret and child-like innocence, Peyami faces the challenge of protecting his father’s truth from the prying eyes of the world. Amidst this complexity, Esvet, escaping an abusive past, enters their lives, bearing secrets of her own. As hidden pasts collide and enigmatic characters intertwine, ‘The Tailor’ unravels a tale of secrets, relationships, and the unbreakable bonds of family, painting a vivid portrait of life’s unexpected twists. You can watch the show here.
11. Shahmaran (2023)
‘Shahmaran‘ (‘Şahmaran’ in Turkish) is a spellbinding Netflix series that weds fantasy and drama in a captivating narrative. Directed by Umur Turagay and penned by Pınar Bulut, the show introduces Şahsu, a psychology lecturer from Istanbul, who embarks on a journey to Adana to confront her estranged grandfather. In this ancient town, she finds herself immersed in a community deeply devoted to Şahmaran, a mythical being with the body of a woman and the tail of a snake bound by a prophetic destiny. Her life takes a mystical turn as she encounters the enigmatic figure, Maran. You can watch the show here.
10. Intersection (2016)
‘Intersection’ weaves a mesmerizing tale of love, betrayal, and redemption against the enchanting backdrop of Istanbul. This Turkish drama series intricately entangles the lives of three ambitious characters – a wealthy businessman, a talented architect, and a passionate painter – in a complex love triangle. As their paths intersect, the story unravels with intense emotions and unexpected twists, exploring the depths of desire and the price of ambition. With its magnetic performances, breathtaking cinematography, and a gripping storyline that defies conventions, ‘Intersection’ not only captures the essence of modern romance but also shows the complexities of human relationships, leaving viewers craving for more. You can watch the show here.
9. Fatma (2021)
‘Fatma‘ is a riveting Turkish thriller that takes viewers on an intense and unpredictable ride. Starring Burcu Biricik in the titular role, the series revolves around a cleaning lady named Fatma, who inadvertently becomes entangled in a web of crime and corruption while searching for her missing husband. Fueled by desperation and determination, Fatma embarks on a dark and relentless journey, uncovering shocking secrets along the way. The show masterfully combines suspense, drama, and impeccable storytelling, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. You can watch it here.
8. The Protector (2018-2020)
‘The Protector’ is a thrilling blend of fantasy and action. The series, starring Çağatay Ulusoy, follows Hakan Demir, a young man who discovers his extraordinary powers and must protect Istanbul from supernatural threats. Guided by an ancient secret society, Hakan’s journey unfolds with mystical artifacts and rich Turkish folklore. The show is renowned for its impressive production values, engaging storyline, and charismatic lead. It not only captivates audiences with its supernatural elements but also showcases the beauty of Istanbul. ‘The Protector’ offers a unique take on the superhero genre, appealing to action and fantasy fans. You can watch the show here.
7. Love 101 (2020-2021)
If you are in the mood for some light teen drama, ‘Love 101‘ should be on your list. It follows the story of a group of carefree and reckless teenagers who do something that leads to their expulsion from school. Their only hope is the one teacher about to leave town for another job. To make her stay, they plot to make her fall in love with another teacher. What ensues is a hilarious mix of comedy, drama, and a whole lot of romance. You can watch ‘Love 101’ here.
6. Ethos (2020)
‘Ethos’ is a Turkish drama series that delves into the complexities of society, psychology, and human relationships. The show, created by Berkun Oya, follows the life of Meryem, a psychologist who encounters a diverse range of patients from different walks of life. As she delves into their stories, the series explores issues of identity, culture, and social norms. ‘Ethos’ is known for its deep character development and thought-provoking narrative, offering viewers a unique insight into the human psyche and the challenges people face in a rapidly changing world. The series has gained critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling and strong performances. You can watch the show here.
5. The Gift (2019-2021)
A Netflix Original, ‘The Gift‘ follows the story of a girl named Atiye. For as long as she can remember, she has been drawing a symbol she has never seen anywhere else. It is prominent in her paintings and haunts her dreams, but she never pays much attention to it. Then, one day, the symbol is found in Gobekeli Tepe’s caves, which have been closed off for thousands of years. Atiye is intrigued by this discovery, and the quest to find out her connection with the symbol leads her on an adventurous journey full of surprising twists. You can watch ‘The Gift’ here.
4. The Club (2021–2023)
Directed by Seren Yüce and Zeynep Günay Tan, ‘The Club’ is set in 1950s Istanbul and follows Matilda Aseo (Gökçe Bahadir), who has just come out of a Turkish prison after doing time for murder. While she doesn’t want to find her daughter Raşel (Asude Kalebek), who was an infant when Matilda went to prison and grew up in an orphanage, her motherly instincts kick in once she sees Raşel’s photo. A handful of events occur, after which Matilda ends up working at Club Istanbul. But this is only to keep its manager Çelebi (Firat Tanis) from sending Raşel to prison for a break-in. However, it will allow Matilda to keep an eye on Raşel and ensure her safety. This includes keeping her away from Çelebi and the club owner, Orhan Sahin (Salih Bademci). Addressing themes including but not limited to politics, religion, and romance, ‘The Club’ has a layered narrative, one that is intense and fascinating. You can stream it here.
3. Rise of Empires: Ottoman (2020)
If you have a thing for historical dramas, then ‘Rise of Empires: Ottoman‘ should be on your watchlist. The story revolves around the fall of Constantinople and the wars and carnage that accompanied it. It begins with Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II’s campaign to conquer Constantinople, but his ambition doesn’t rest there. He plans more wars, and amidst this, we also look into the court drama and the people’s personal connections. The show features a lot of action that will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout the season. You can watch ‘Rise of Empires: Ottoman’ here.
2. Wolf (2018)
Set in 2014, Wolf (also known as ‘Boru’) focuses on the lives of a group of officers who are a part of an elite task force. The show is full of action and thrill and also takes an emotional turn when it comes to exploring the characters’ personal lives. Every episode brings a new challenge for the team, sometimes in the heart of the country and sometimes on the border. All this while, they have to work under high-pressure situations and deal with complications at home. You can watch all the episodes of ‘Boru’ here.
1. Innocent (2017)
Nothing sells on television like a small-town crime mystery. If you have finished all the Nordic noirs and Scandi crime shows, ‘Innocent’ is a good way to introduce yourself to the Turkish setting of murder mysteries. The story focuses on a retired police commissioner enjoying a peaceful life with his wife at a farm away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Turmoil arrives in his life when a murder shakes the town, and some shocking secrets are brought to light in the investigation. You can watch all episodes of ‘Innocent’ here.
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