The Turkish Detective

While this is your average crime/thriller story, with a new mystery every 2 episodes and one that spans over the whole series there are several factors that would make me choose this one over several similar brit-crime variations.

First: I really enjoy the setting. Istanbul is an exciting city and the series manages to capture the vibe quite well.

Second: The script. Each episode is well written, and balanced both in dialogue, character development and in mysteries that somehow feels like a fresh take than the average (maybe it is the environment, maybe the somewhat straightforward storytelling, either way, it works).

Third: likeable characters and good acting. The characters are believable and likeable but not without faults. Thankfully the depressed-alcoholic-cop-trope is no way to be seen. Rather the characters are more multifaceted with have weaknesses, strengths, doubts and sides that are less flattering, just like all humans. Perhaps that is why they feel so relatable.

Over all, the series are evidently well crafted, and enjoyable. Nothing mind blowing, but an enjoyable watch. If you like series like the Icelantic "Trapped" or the Danish "Rejsholdet", this is for you.

Having failed to settle in The Met, Detective Mehmet Suleyman heads to Turkey, waiting for him, his new boss, inspector Ikmen, and his partner Ayse.

The last time I felt the same way about a series, probably Vienna Blood, it's that same kind of quirky, energetic and intriguing drama, that's just a little left field.

I loved it, I loved the first story, I struggled a little with the second, but the third was great, the fourth was even better, it's a terrific series finale.

Ikmen is the most wonderful Detective, he reminds me a little of Baptiste, that same sort of give. Ikmen is funny, hard working, tough but fair.

Wonderful location work, Turkey looks phenomenal, and as you'd expect you get to see some of the many cats that live wild.

I only hope it returns for a second series, there's plenty of mileage left in this one.

9/10.

Surprised at some of the negative reviews, but this should change as this wonderful production progresses I'm sure. I love a crime mystery with twists and turns, especially one with a great sense of place and this has that in spades. But not only do you get a sense of this beautiful, ancient, complex city, but right from the beginning we are beguiled by the subtleties of culture and how the police, led cleverly by Haluk Bilginer's character, Cetin Ikmen have to navigate that for best result. Just enough humour, just enough pathos, and Ikmen's character gives us back our faith in human nature and understanding. Young protagonist Mehmet, used only to 'the British way' in London realises quickly he's going to have to adapt. Ikmen is quick to realise this may take time and so keeps him at distance for interviewing local suspects, but lets him rip at crime scenes - Ikmen recognises his strengths and how to use that. Interesting ongoing sub-plot with Mehmet's ex-girlfriend/reporter who has been devastatingly affected by a suspicious hit and run and Mehmet's need to investigate the reasons. Of course this is all conducted in English with aside, subtitled conversations in local dialect, because this is made to introduce westerners to Istanbul and its people in way that's easier for them, but this was made by a Turkish production company financed by Paramount and so that was their decision for wider distribution I guess. I'd guess the Turkish authorities will be happy that lots of westerners like me will be avidly waiting for the next episode and dreaming of visiting this amazing place, its great for tourism no doubt. Crime/murder mystery fans like me always wait for something a bit different, perhaps an authentic-feeling touch of the exotic and this is it. Congratulations to Ay Yapim on a fantastic quality production, hopefully we'll be seeing more.

I really don't understand the great reviews for this series which revolves around a young detective from the UK obviously of Turkish origins - name is Mehmet and looks Turkish (no racism just observation) being paired with a retirement age detective in Istanbul.

It is clichéd and although the lead character Çetin Ikmanhas a certain rough scruffy charm and is likeable and I like his approach and understanding of people, his sidekick Mehmet is wooden and not convincing at all, likewise the female detective seems a token addition. It lacks credibility, and as a frequent visitor to Istanbul and Turkey some of it makes me cringe. I don't mind the mixing of Turkish and English language. The plots are weak but they are based on a novel so perhaps the novel is not good. I am critical because I love the genre of detective crime mysteries and thrillers so I hold this up against the many superb ones I have watched. I am only up to episode 4 so I will continue to finish the series and maybe my opinion will change. It is watchable but as light entertainment. I don't understand the comment about Arabic by another reviewer, I have heard very few Arabic words, Turkish and English are mainly spoken and likewise the subtitles.

The Turkish Detective is a crime drama thriller series based on the novels by Barbara Nadel. It follows Inspector Cetin Ikmen and his team as they solve various cases in the modern world of Turkey. The series showcases the rich culture, history, and diversity of Istanbul, as well as the challenges and conflicts that arise from different perspectives and backgrounds. The cast is led by Haluk Bilginer, who delivers a captivating performance as the charismatic and unconventional Ikmen. The series also features Ethan Kai, Yasemin Kay Allen, Erol Afsin, and Selma Ergeç in supporting roles. The Turkish Detective is a gripping and engaging show that will keep you hooked until the end.