Amor prohibido

I hardly watch TV and when I do, it HAS to be good. I recently started watching an Urdu dubbed version of Ask-i-memnu and I must admit that the brilliance with which this show has been made took me by surprise. All actors did a fantastic job in their roles, especially Beren Saat and Kivanc, whose performances deserve applaud. Adnan's son was hilarious at times and the children's nanny (Denise) is also worth mentioning.

As far as the story is concerned, it is full of twists and turns. It's not like your typical, innocent love story with a few villains. Every single person in the story has some sort of a personal agenda that they're working towards. I guess credit goes to the author of the beautifully written novel that this show is based upon.

Although I am giving it 10/10, I do agree with one point that a reviewer made here regarding the love scenes between Bihter and Behlul. The original novel was set in the late 19th century and I understand that this show was supposed to have a more modern setting, but the almost pornographic scenes between Bihter and Behlul were a little unnecessary. They do not deter you from enjoying the show, however. The fact that it has been translated in a number of languages and attracted viewers from all over the world speaks volumes about Ask-i-memnu's success.

Ask-i Memnu (2008-2010) unfolds like a mesmerizing tapestry of forbidden love, with performances that etch themselves into the soul. The acting is a nuanced dance, with the lead actors embodying the complexity of their characters' emotions. The film editing crafts a narrative that feels like a delicate balance between passion and societal norms, drawing you into the intricate web of love and heartache. The strength of Ask-i Memnu lies in its unapologetic exploration of the human heart's capacity to defy conventions. While the pacing may falter at times, the music weaves through the story, accentuating the highs and lows of illicit passion. The cinematography captures the opulence of the world it portrays, adding a layer of visual poetry to the emotional drama. With a 7/10 rating, Ask-i Memnu is a captivating journey into the complexities of love, where every stolen glance and whispered secret leaves an indelible mark on the heart.

Nothing compare to this series. Never before and never after.

Beren Saat is clearly the heart and soul of this TV show. She is not just devastatingly beautiful, she is also a great actress. I am smitten with her. She is amazing in the role of Bihter, like it was written just for her. If you pay attention to her mimics, her gestures, her delicate face muscles. She expresses those deep emotions with such a precision. She is the Goddess of acting. Everything else fades. What Hollywood, what famous stars? Beren Saat. Period.

I would really like to see more movies or TV shows with Beren Saat in the leading role...

Yes, it's true, Ask-i memnu is not the best show ever, being cheesy sometimes. But all the emotion it evokes, all the passion, the sadness, you can feel it in your bones. Definitely worth watching at least once.

If you are new to Turkish TV series, watch this! You won't regret it.