Recensioni degli utenti

Two top actors of Turkish dizi - Cagtoy ulusoy and Demit odzemir- have been cast to make a Dream come true.

I somehow feel that' the present day story writers are running out of ideas.

This is year 2025 - still you are Weaving Old fashioned mafia story - start is very slow and un interesting - but from the middle half - Cagtoy shows his charisma n the story starts spinning - Demit looks tired - probably she will pickup steam along with Cagtoy to make it interesting.

Child stars are doing well.

I hope some modern elements of mafia operations with tech. Combined will set pace from next episode.

Violence can be shown in a subtle manner as adolescent children ( 14- 17 yrs old) also watch - as fans of Cagtoy.

Almost all series on streaming platforms are violent and explicit. Subdued content with a good pace will be appreciated 👍

Let me begin by saying that creating a weekly two hour series with meaningful content is for sure not an easy task.

The actors, not only the protagonists, are very good. Cagatay definitely has an undeniable charisma especially when playing a macho mafia man (it's not his first time!). I think Demet is wonderful actress but somehow I feel that I am still watching Sanem in Erkenci Kus. Her mimics and probably the way the character is written just really reminds me of her. Hopefully, this will get better in time as she sets in more in the role.

Lovely choices for the rest of the cast especially the choice of Busra Develi for the role of Çigdem and Ceren Benderlioglou for the role of Irmak.

Now for the scenario, so far it seems as another typical mafia Turkish series. It was as if I was watching Içerde again. I don't know why are people commenting as if it's finally something they haven't seen again and again.

There is just too much unnecessary killing. It makes you feel like you're watching some kind of online game where you need to shoot everybody. I'm not in a mafia but I would assume they don't go around shooting people all day.

Also, let's be honest, who in their right minds in this modern world tries to find a woman just based on her mole.

I would honestly like more effort from the writing team and the creative team. It's just such a pity because they've managed to have such a wonderful cast.

For a first episode, it was really good.

It started off a bit slow, but that's expected for an opening - introducing the characters and setting up the story. Then, the pace picked up, and the plot became truly captivating.

The beginning sequences & the production quality as a whole is very similar to the high quality production in some of the best television series.

"Esref looked at a woman for the first time in many years, he felt a warmth in his stomach like he felt when he first saw his Ruya, he looked at the girl's neck, there was no sign, it wasn't her... so feeling this way created a deep regret in him"

"Even when he was taking his last breath, he was still very handsome."

In 2001, Esref sees his dream... I loved the choice of child actors. I continue to watch with curiosity and interest.

Esref Ruya is an outstanding Turkish telenovela that masterfully blends romance, drama, and deep emotional storytelling. From the very first episode, the series captivates viewers with its compelling characters, stunning cinematography, and a script that is both poetic and powerful.

For anyone looking for a telenovela that goes beyond clichés and delivers a truly unforgettable experience, Esref Ruya is a must-watch.

A Thrilling and Passionate Mafia Romance

This mafia romance delivers the perfect mix of danger, passion, and intrigue. The chemistry between the Esref and Ruya is electrifying, with a love story that defies the odds amid power struggles and dark secrets. The tension is high, the stakes are deadly, and every twist keeps you hooked. If you love romance with a dangerous edge, this is a must!

PLEASE DONT CANCEL THIS SERIES ITS SO GOOD ILL CRY. Its so good but im afriad that the rating is too low it might get cancelled like Ruhun duymaz this series potential. The casting is at its finest this casting comes once in a lifetime. I hope this series goes on and i really like the chemistry between Demit and cagatay they look perfect together one of the best casting i have seen and i also love the backstory we would like to see more of it as the sries CONTINUES. As i said I see the potential of this series its amazing and only 2 episodes are in!! It got my attention. Not boring and not cliche.

From the very first episode, it was clear that Esref Ruya was heading nowhere good. The series starts off aimlessly, offering little to no real substance, and sadly, it never finds its footing. I kept watching, hoping it might eventually improve or introduce some depth to the story - but nothing meaningful ever happens. The plot is shallow, poorly constructed, and seems to wander without any clear direction.

The acting across the board is shockingly bad. There's a complete lack of emotional authenticity, making it impossible to connect with any of the characters. What's even worse is the bizarre way the show tries to romanticize and justify the main character's violence. It's one thing to portray a complex anti-hero, but it's another to flat-out excuse murder with cheesy dialogue and poorly staged action sequences.

Speaking of the action, it's laughably unrealistic - like something pulled out of a bad superhero parody rather than a serious drama. Gunfights, chase scenes, and so-called "intense" moments all feel cartoonish and ridiculous, stripping any sense of gravity from the story.

What truly baffles me is how this series has managed to accumulate so many positive reviews. It feels obvious that much of the praise comes from die-hard fans of Ulusoy, who seem willing to support anything he's in, regardless of quality. It's disappointing because a good story deserves to be more than just a vanity project for a star's fanbase.

In short, it is a huge letdown. Between the incoherent plot, weak performances, and over-the-top, meaningless action, it's hard to see how anyone could find real enjoyment here unless they're just looking to cheer for a familiar face. If you're hoping for a compelling mafia drama with layered characters and real emotional impact, this isn't it. A complete waste of potential - and time.

Esref Rüya is a masterpiece and masterful blend of intense drama, deep emotions, and gripping storytelling, capturing the essence of love, ambition, and the struggle between fate and choice. With its stellar cast, breathtaking cinematography, and the plot is on point, it stands as a testament to the brilliance of Turkish television. The chemistry between Çagatay Ulusoy and Demet Özdemir is electrifying, and breath taking. From its richly developed characters to its hauntingly beautiful soundtrack. I can't get it out of my mind I'm obsessed .This series is perfection I highly recommend you to watch it.

I have seen many Turkish series, having grown up in a Turkish household. Yet, very few of them have been this immersive and interesting-not only in terms of plot but also in terms of lighting, shots and overall ambiance and atmosphere. Although the acting is not great, compared to other series- with Demet Ozdemir's not so convincing, yet staple "dumb girl" style acting, most actors convince the viewer of the intentions and motives of their characters and make the viewer feel for them emotionally.

The songs and shots used in the series are also really captivating, and unlike in other current Turkish series as of now.

The series has only had 6 episodes, yet as of now, the plot appears to be fluid, flowing at a steady pace, rather than being too slow, since every episode is two hours long.

Although it is not the best, I would consider it a great series so far, with convincing acting and captivating imagery.

The series opens with the scene that reminded me the concept of "The white lotus", when the end is predictable. Which means, the narrator tells us from the beginning that this is going to be the sad end. Speaking of the narration, the voice over, which is heavily presents only in first episodes - it comes and then disappear with strange predicament, once it exists and then it never came back.

The series has some interesting points and characters and some of them undeveloped, unfortunately.

Mostly undeveloped, in my opinion, is Nisan played by Demet Özdemir. I know the actress by her performances in the Turkish comedy Erkensi Kus and the drama "Adim Farah". There her characters were more solid and interesting.

In this series it looks like she doesn't know her character and as a result , her acting is, I would say flat.

The lead male actor is more sure about his character and therefore looks more convincing to me.

Now the screen-write is a weak point in my opinion. After some episodes I found hard to cope with the question what this series is all about. It looks like the most intriguing part of the story is when the lead male character will understand that Nissan is the one he is looking for. And in same voice over narrations, that strangely appears and disappears, I had a clue that after some years (!) it may happen.

We watch episode after episode without any real development. I would mark the character of Kadir, one of the main villains of the series, as the most interesting. The duo of Kadir and his closest ally Kinan is full of life.

Some parts of the plot looked silly to me. As well as some fighting and shooting scenes were doubtful.

Still, the series has some lovable characters and in some moments the dynamics worked well. So maybe it is possible to give it a try with the hope that in the second season it is going to improve itself.

Amazing direction with beautiful exterior shots. The actors have entered their roles 100%. The series combines drama, humor, strong scenes and strong performances that were evident from the first episode. I can't wait for the next episodes.

Cagatay Ulusoy has managed from the first shot to give meaning and depth to the character he plays. His gaze is captivating. It seems that he has worked hard for the role.

Demet Özdemir already has very strong (interpretative) scenes and I admit that it captivated me. It convinced me from the first episode.

The screenwriter has done an excellent job as all the characters are very well written.

Season 1 Review of Esref Rüya

(I may update this if my view on the writing of Nisan changes in Season 2. If not, this is what you get).

If you're hoping for a well-developed, emotionally rich female lead and you're watching Esref Rüya for that reason - don't bother. At least not yet. Watch it instead for the incredible chemistry between Demet Özdemir and Cagatay Ulusoy, because that's where the show truly shines.

Chemistry > Character Depth (So Far)

The casting is what got me hooked. Demet and Cagatay are a 100/10 pairing in terms of looks, talent, and chemistry. When they share a scene, they heat up the screen. Even a character in the show points out how perfect they look together. It's a visual and emotional treat every time they interact - when the writing gives them the chance.

I've followed Demet since Erkenci Kus, where she showed impressive growth, especially in the second season. Cagatay had never really drawn me in - not due to lack of talent, but because his past series either sidelined the female lead or lacked spark in the main couple. Esref Rüya felt like dream casting come true. But then... the writing.

The Case of Nisan's Missing Storyline

Despite being played by a proven actress with incredible range, Nisan is frustratingly underwritten. She starts with nuance and promise but slowly becomes a passive character used only to advance Esref's arc. Her traumatic childhood incident - hinted at throughout - is untouched after 13 episodes. No flashbacks, no psychological exploration, not even a line acknowledging it.

Even major events - like thinking she killed someone, or witnessing Esref murder people - barely leave a dent in her behavior or arc. She's not given space to process anything. In the finale, she's stuck comforting Esref because his toxic father figure dies... a scene with no emotional weight, maybe because even the actors seem tired. We're supposed to care, but we don't.

And the thing is - Demet kills it when she's given real material. Just look at her performance in episode 11 during that intense argument/kiss scene. It went viral for a reason. Her ability to convey joy, pain, anger, and confusion in a single moment is why she's one of the best in her field. Why hire such a powerhouse only to write her into the background?

A Show Called Esref Rüya... But Only One Name Matters?

The imbalance is obvious. The show is not called Esref Tek. It's Esref Rüya - yet the focus is overwhelmingly on Esref, his torment, orphan issues, and repetitive "I'll kill you" monologues. Meanwhile, the "Rüya" part (Nisan) is ignored, especially later in the season.

It's hard not to wonder if this is intentional, especially considering part of Cagatay's fanbase seems threatened by a strong female co-lead and demands "less romance, more action." That toxic, testosterone-driven fan culture affects how shows like this are written and received.

Even the narrator, Omer - who once framed this as a "legendary love story" - fades into the background. His voice once added emotional weight and framed Esref and Nisan's story as epic. But midway through, something shifted. Esref loses interest in even opening Nisan's file - not because it makes sense, but because the writers clearly needed to drag things out. A "legendary" love story can't thrive on forced distance and plot stalls.

The Finale - A Narrative Mess

The Season 1 finale was a letdown. Production reportedly went down to the wire (filming a day before release), and it shows. Cigdem and Kadir take up nearly 70% of the runtime. Their storylines, once mildly intriguing, are now tiring, with little payoff. Cigdem somehow keeps winning - killing, blaming, manipulating - with no consequence, while Esref just stands around. His reactions are inconsistent and contradictory.

Worse, the scenarist throws in another last-minute, meaningless action sequence - Cagatay yelling "Bin hepeniz Esref Tek" while firing a gun. These testosterone-fueled scenes cater to the male fanbase cheering for "action" over romance. But let's be honest - they're cringe, empty, and increasingly feel like filler. At this point, you just want to hit fast-forward.

Esref's story dominates, but with diminishing returns. His threats to kill people become comical. There's no follow-through, no growth - just empty lines shouted for effect. Even his emotional arc falters. His final moments with Cigdem are ambiguously directed. Hate her? Pity her? Hug her? Kill her? The tone is all over the place, and Cagatay seems oddly detached in parts.

Nisan? She spends most of the episode literally standing in the background. Whatever tension existed between her and Esref earlier is gone - especially with Cagatay playing Esref coldly in the finale. Whether that was an acting choice or due to rushed direction, it didn't work.

One Scene Saves the Finale

The only redeeming moment is the last five minutes: the prison scene. Demet and Cagatay once again prove they're the heart of the series. Esref confesses he's only ever loved "Rüya," and Demet's reaction - from hope to heartbreak - is a masterclass. That is the show's magic. That's what people want to see. More of that could save this show.

On the Supporting Characters

Gürdal - Started strong but became a hypocritical joke. His endless side scenes dating multiple women? Pointless. His attitude toward Nisan and Irmak is worse - he treats Irmak like property and polices Esref's love life. A despicable caricature.

Müslüm - NTM. He's there.

Faruk - Has potential, but his romance with Afra feels TikTok-engineered. Writers should focus less on ship-bait and more on arcs.

Irmak - Promising. One of the few genuinely supportive characters. Needs to stand up to Gürdal more, but with a well-written sisterly bond with Nisan, she could be a gem.

Afra - Classic brat sister. Always in trouble, can't keep a secret, scared of consequences. Cute with Nisan, but otherwise underwhelming. Give her some real growth.

Cigdem - A walking contradiction. Talented actress, but chaotic writing. One moment she wants Esref dead, the next she's begging him to run off with her. Emotional compass? None. She manipulates, kills, gaslights, threatens... and somehow keeps her badge? Esref threatens to kill her, then almost cries when she arrests him. Their interactions have gone from dramatic to bizarre.

She humiliates Nisan and uses young girls as pawns, yet the show wants us to pity her? Why? She had potential as a ruthless antagonist but became a mess of tropes. If the writers can't commit to a clear direction, maybe write her out before she drags the story down further.

Kadir - Started intriguing. Misunderstood, shaped by emotional neglect. His obsession with Nisan gave us some of the most intense Esref-Nisan moments. There was potential for redemption. But by the finale, he hijacks the plot, and all nuance disappears. He's crossed from compelling villain to exhausting plot device.

Final Season 1 Rating: 6/10

Why?

The chemistry and casting are exceptional - they carry the show. That alone lifts the rating.

But the writing? Mediocre and sometimes baffling.

And the treatment of the female lead - neglected and unworthy of the actress playing her - brings it down. Demet's talent is being wasted. She can carry drama, romance, and emotional arcs. Nisan could've been layered.

The writing needs focus. Less Cigdem and Kadir. Fewer plot holes. More Nisan development. Use the amazing acting duo you've got. Develop the "Rüya" part.

This show has huge potential. But until it gives its leading lady equal weight, it's not living up to its own name (Esref Rüya, not just Esref Tek).

If Season 2 fixes the imbalance and delivers emotional depth, it could easily become an 8 or 9. If not, viewers will walk away.

For now: 6/10. Watch for the leads and enjoy the mafia plot.

"Bin Hepeniz Esref Tek" - But What About Rüya?

Esref Rüya struggles to offer anything beyond the standard clichés we've come to expect from formulaic crime dramas. The series relies heavily on emotional overdrive, stretching scenes unnecessarily to pad out its already bloated runtime of over two hours per episode.

Plot twists are rarely grounded in logic and seem to exist solely to provoke emotional reactions, often at the expense of narrative coherence. Rather than crafting suspense through clever storytelling, the show deliberately withholds information to manufacture artificial surprises.

Violence is frequent, yet devoid of deeper meaning or commentary - used more as spectacle than substance. Scenes that should carry emotional or narrative weight are instead reduced to moments of shock value, replacing thoughtful development with hollow dramatics.

And of course, the male lead fits the tired archetype: dark, brooding, with a traumatic past and a personal sense of justice that's supposed to be compelling, but feels more like a shortcut to character development.

Overall, Esref Rüya feels like a checklist of tropes rather than a well-constructed series. It offers intensity without purpose, twists without logic, and characters without depth.

I liked the beginning of "Esref Ruya". There are quite a few storylines that could develop.

I really like the way the narrator works.

He is the one who knows everything about Eshref, his thoughts, motives, knows about events that he was not even a direct witness to. This gives a lot of freedom in the storytelling because it allows us to learn things that would otherwise remain hidden.

Excellent cinematography!

Characters like Esref have some inexplicable appeal-not just because they look strong, but because they exude control, mystery, and self-assurance.

And Cagatay Ulusoy is perfect for this role of a mysterious, domineering man who seems to hold the fate of others in his hands, but cannot control his own.

I hope it continues in the same style. Let's listen to the person telling the story because it adds an emotional layer to the story.

He can make observations and comments that make us look at things from a different perspective.

From the moment she steps on screen, she doesn't merely act, she inhabits. Every glance, every pause, every line delivered with aching precision pulls the viewer deeper into the world she creates. Hers is not a performance you watch; it's one you feel in your chest, in your breath, in the space between heartbeats.

She is an excellent actress, unique, unmistakable. She possesses a rare gift: the ability to shift emotional landscapes with nothing more than the subtle play of her features and doesn't need grand gestures or exaggerated movements; she communicates volumes through the most delicate changes in expression. Her eyes alone carry entire narratives. Her mouth, her brow, even the slight flare of her nose, every detail contributes to the emotional truth she radiates.

There's an undeniable magnetism in her presence, an aura that silences the world around her. She commands attention not with noise, but with soul. You don't just watch her, you are held by her. Spellbound. Captivated!

The surrounding hype appears artificially inflated, as the series offers little in terms of logical narrative or technical merit.

Demet, who is presented as both an actress and singer, delivers a notably static performance, showing minimal emotional range throughout. Furthermore, the portrayal of a supposedly impoverished character, who undergoes numerous elaborate costume changes within short periods, undermines any attempt at realism and insults the audience's intelligence.

The narrative is equally flawed: the depiction of the mafia is inconsistent and implausible, eliminating characters at will while inexplicably sparing one without credible justification - a clear sign of weak and careless writing.

Overall, the plot is disjointed and poorly constructed. Based on the comment section, it appears much of the positive feedback stems from solo fanbases, rather than from an objective evaluation of the acting or storytelling quality.

The first episode of this new series delivers an exciting story, strong characters, and an engaging atmosphere. From the very first minute, the plot grabs your attention with a perfect mix of drama, action, and emotions. The actors give outstanding performances, while the visuals and soundtrack create an immersive experience. Unexpected twists keep the suspense high, making every moment thrilling. The world-building is impressive, and the dialogues feel natural and well-written. Every scene is crafted with great attention to detail, enhancing the storytelling. A fantastic start-can't wait to see what happens next!

Like, everything's bad?

Having approached the premiere episode with cautious optimism, I found myself disheartened by its excruciatingly sluggish pace. What was intended to be an engaging introduction instead felt interminable, lacking both narrative momentum and emotional depth. With some reluctance, I awaited the release of the second episode - a wait that felt unduly prolonged - only to be met with more of the same: a lifeless progression devoid of intrigue or nuance.

While I must commend the lead male actor for his commendable screen presence and earnest performance, the production itself does little to support his talents. As for Ms. Demet Özdemir, it appears she selects roles with little discernment, seemingly driven by a desire to expand her résumé rather than contribute meaningfully to the art. Her repeated participation in scenes of an overtly intimate nature raises questions about artistic integrity and the cultural standards to which Turkish television once held itself. One wonders how such choices continue to go unchecked in a country that is otherwise quick to critique.

Regrettably, this latest offering has not only failed to hold my attention but has also dampened my interest in contemporary Turkish series altogether - particularly in light of the unjust scrutiny faced by one of Turkey's most distinguished international actors, Can Yaman. His body of work reflects consistency, excellence, and dignity - qualities sorely lacking in this production.

In sum, this series does not merit further viewing. Its shortcomings in pacing, character development, and artistic restraint render it a regrettable addition to the genre.

Im sorry but im dissapointed after reading Slow Over Hyped Boring comment. I encourage people to continue watching this series. It has the best actors (Necip) and actress on the screen. I mean why would Cagatay and Demet act in a series if the storyline was boring.? And the Director himself is someone to look out for with so many movies worth watching. Trust me, this series is and will be truly captivating. Another Mafia story that will keep you glued.

The start could hv be dragging as its telling the story itself. But the plot definitely gets more interesting. These Mafia stories have become an inthing these days. Excitement with romance.

As mentioned in the review, such a cliche and cheap tv show with 0 logic, chemistry, plot. Cheap cheap and cheap and only praised by crazy solos as you can see in the reviews they keep the same style reviews for 10....

This TV show is a disaster: a singer who doesn't sing an actor who doesn't play an actress who does only one emotion the poor main character who changes outfits and bracelets every 10 seconds the mafia who is nice and at 40 loves the image of the girl when the was 14?

Like, what it is?

Hoping, they won't sell it as it's such a cheap version in both quality, acting game and plot to western mafia tv shows and movies... If I could give 0, I would give it.

The series is exciting from the start, The actors have an extraordinary chemistry from the beginning, you feel that Esref Rüya is worth watching.

The story seems exciting, the casting is very good, especially with the presence of Necip Memili.

I hope this series will have all the success it deserves, it has the potential to become a reference in Turkish cinema in the near future.

For those who like mafia series like çukur, this is the perfect choice for a good evening.

I hope Esref Rüya gets the audition and the marks it deserves, for my part I gave it a 10/10 for these two exceptional first episodes.

One of the worst Turkish series so far with extremely bad acting.

The writers wanted to do something and in fact they did nothing.

The story begins, like many others, he is a rich mafia who gained his wealth in a dirty way and she came from an orphanage and changes clothes every hour and not very cheap looking... The scenes of Esref's violence are disgusting where he kills with one hand and distributes "alms" with the same hand.

What do the writers want to say to the viewers, among whom there are children, with these scenes?

In this series, Kagatay did not show what and how much he can do. I have the feeling that he has no will to work.

The chemistry between him and his partner is zero.

Absolutely none.

The acting of the main actress is terrible, as is her singing. The songs are okay only if they are sung by someone who has a sense of music.

Her acting always boils down to the same, cold and expressionless facial movements that, personally, cannot fascinate me and say wow, that's acting.

A lot was invested in the project, but in the end it was a big disappointment.

I do not recommend anyone to waste their time on this series.

Kagatay disappointed me because he can do it much better.

If it was 0 for the rating, I would give it 0...but like this only 1.

"Esref Ruya" is an absolute masterpiece that showcases the incredible talent of Cagatay Ulusoy and the brilliance of Turkish storytelling. From the very first episode, I was drawn into a mesmerizing world that beautifully intertwines dreams and reality, making for an unforgettable viewing experience.

Cagatay Ulusoy delivers a phenomenal performance as the lead character, capturing the essence of his role with depth and authenticity. His portrayal of a young man navigating the complexities of life, love, and the very nature of dreams is both relatable and inspiring. The way he embodies the struggles and triumphs of his character is nothing short of mesmerizing.

The cinematography in "Esref Ruya" is breathtaking. Each frame is meticulously crafted, transporting viewers into a visually stunning realm that enhances the narrative. The use of colors and lighting creates an ethereal atmosphere, making the dream sequences truly enchanting. The soundtrack complements the visuals perfectly, evoking a range of emotions that resonate long after the credits roll.

The writing is another standout aspect of the series. The plot is rich with twists and turns, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The themes of hope, love, and self-discovery are woven seamlessly throughout the storyline, making it not just a series, but a profound exploration of the human experience. The character development is exceptional, with each supporting character adding depth and dimension to the story.

What sets "Esref Ruya" apart is its ability to blend fantasy with reality, inviting viewers to reflect on their own dreams and aspirations. It challenges us to ponder the meaning of our desires and the paths we choose in life. This thought-provoking narrative, combined with stellar performances and stunning visuals, makes for a compelling watch.

Honestly, really hard to watch.

The facts that those wealthy men live in one room like a prison and that grown up man is still chasing a little girl he has seen at 14 are nothing compared to these hordes of men in black holding weapons.

What is this? Aren't you tired of the violence in this country? We are tired of the mafia series. At least in this shape.

Little boys growing watch this and they dream to grow up and be a part of the mafia. They dream of holding guns and taking the justice in their hands. The result is seen everyday on the news. Is the mass production of this type of series a plan to make more and more growingboys under the influence of this violence.

I wanted to see something good and watched until the 3 episode, but couldn't even finish it. So bad, so hard to watch, seen so many times already. I'm done.

Everything is amazing in this series.

We dont know how its gonna end but we cant wait to ser whats coming.

Cagatay Ulusoy is one of the best artist in Türkiye Demet Özdemir aswell.

The Drama of the story is worth to watch.

Esref and Nisa look beautiful together.

We cant wait them to kiss each other people matching with the characters good choosing Nisa is so beautiful its hard not to fall in love you will hate the female police officer but will be curious about the love she has for Esref it was another story to be found.

They showed Esref was dying at the beginning of the season thats sad.