Uzak Sehir

I'm not a big fan of Turkish series, which I sometimes find too "cliché", and this one combines all the ingredients to keep people on the edge of their seats and hooked.

The characters of Alya and Cihan are endearing, and their explosive "relationship" makes us want more.

The dynamics of the other actors, in addition to their touching stories where we feel for each of them, not to mention the breathtaking scenery of Mardin, make this show a gem.

You'll love the slow burn between Cihan and Alya, you'll feel sad for the fate of the characters, you'll be caught up in the tribal conflicts, Sadakat and Ecmel's hatred, Demir's revenge, Mine's jealousies and, strangely, you'll love hating the antagonists... The episodes are fluid and the acting is good, so go for it, guys!

Fascinating characters, gripping storyline and exotic scenery makes this series addictive.

The character Alya is strong and brave, admirable and mature beyond her age. She is fearless and a protective, loving mother. Cihan is dedicated and respectful, works constantly at trying to please and protect his loved ones. I adore Kaya's unfaltering love for Zerrin and am touched by the impossible love story between Sahin and Nare. Even the "villains" are amazing to watch. Madame Sadakat may seem cruel and cold, but that actress is surely playing her role immaculately. She is chilling and beautiful at the same time. The character, Demir is nasty, but he seems to have a playful side that keeps him somehow enjoyable to watch. The side characters are also funny and endearing. Kadir is a riot, and has me rolling every time he is talking on the phone with his mouth full...or stealing food from the kitchen! It would be a crime not to mention the young actor who plays little Cihan (Deniz). I could listen to that cute guy all day. He is adorable. I also would like to mention my appreciation for the use of dialect. It is not cliché nor cartoonish, but just adds to the characters' believability.

All that was just about the characters. But the characters without a storyline is lost. The plot is gripping and often heart wrenching. The series is intense and moving yet often times comical and clever. From the first show, I was hooked. To think that this bright woman would be trapped in a land that was foreign to her, and at risk of losing her son is unimaginable. The obstacles she has endured is dumbfounding. What Cihan is going through, as he protects his family, is also crazy. It's a lot, but it makes the show exciting.

I am eagerly looking forward to each new episode.

Title: Love That Heals Without Asking

Review:

In Uzak Sehir, the relationship between Aliya and Cihan is a masterclass in emotional storytelling.

Aliya, once guarded and emotionally distant, slowly begins to adapt to Cihan. Not because he demanded change, but because he quietly stayed. He did not try to break her walls; he simply waited until she let him in.

Cihan matched her silence and respected her pain. Through that silent understanding, love grew - not with drama, but with patience and healing.

This is not a love that fights pain, but a love that embraces it and transforms it.

True love does not conquer. It heals.

Rating: 6.5 out of 10.

I made the mistake of ignoring this superb series because of their poster, thinking that it will be a lazy family drama with a kid involved.

Finally when I gave it a try, I was blown away from the very first episode. It gripped me from the srat to the available last episode. Music is also phenomenal and very well complement the fast pace story.

No dragging moments, no rubbish to stretch the episodes, pure entertainment with mysterious plot twists and decent action. I believe story will unfold and it will turn into an action packed series.

Have not find anything after Cukur but so far it has the potential to reach to that level.

"Uzak Sehir" sounds like a captivating adaptation of Al Hayba, with a unique storyline bridging Canada and Mardin. The narrative, centered on Alya's journey to fulfill her late husband's last wish, explores the intricate dynamics of the Albora family while unraveling the dangers of their world. The enchanting backdrop of Mardin Midyat adds depth to the storytelling, enhancing its visual and emotional appeal.

As Halil Ozdemir, a merchant involved in this dramatic tale, I had the privilege of contributing to this compelling production. The performances of Ozan Akbaba and Sinem Unsal stand out, delivering powerful and authentic portrayals of their characters. The realistic dialogues and dramatic narrative leave a lasting impression, making Uzak Sehir not just a story but an experience.