The Turkish Detective (2023– ) User Reviews

A Thrilling Journey Through Istanbul's Mysteries

[thisisoa · 6/10 · 15 December 2023]

"The Turkish Detective" (2023) is a gripping series that not only delves into intriguing mysteries but also offers a vivid portrayal of Istanbul. With its well-chosen cast and impressive visuals, the series stands out in its genre.

Without giving too much away, the story revolves around Mehmet (Ethan Kai), a detective transferred from the UK, who navigates the complex and often challenging landscape of crime in Istanbul. The series does an excellent job of intertwining the city's unique cultural aspects with its crime-solving narrative.

The acting in "The Turkish Detective" is commendable, with each character bringing depth and authenticity to their roles. The visual storytelling is another high point, capturing the essence of Istanbul beautifully. The soundtrack, carefully selected, enhances the overall mood and tone of the series, complementing the storyline perfectly.

A memorable moment is when the Detective Ikmen (Haluk Bilginer) says, "Welcome to Istanbul," effectively summarizing the intricate workings of Turkey's system and setting the stage for the narrative.

While I overall enjoyed the series, there was a notable concern regarding the language used. In scenes involving Mehmet, almost every character speaks fluent English, which seems unrealistic and detracts from the authenticity of the setting. This aspect could be improved to maintain the series' realistic vibe.

Despite this, the portrayal of Istanbul, with its stunning views and cultural depth, is exceptionally well done. It adds a layer of authenticity and charm to the series.

"The Turkish Detective" is fun for those who enjoy crime dramas with a strong sense of place and culture. The series requires a bit of patience, so I recommend giving it a chance for a couple of episodes. The journey through Istanbul's mysteries is well worth it.

Quite bingeworthy crime series

[joakimbkampe · 7/10 · 3 January 2024]

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.

In Istanbul, with a Hollywood flavor!

[acarbilal-32089 · 6/10 · 2 January 2024]

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.

Very bad!

[upinthesky-53426 · 3/10 · 16 February 2024]

It's very bad in every aspect: acting (except for Bilginer the rest is a disaster, Yasemin Kay Allen should try her chance in another career), plot (it's not convincing and too weak), dialogues, the pace of the events (events develop too fast, while you try to understand what happened and who is who they start to talk about another thing and person. I mean why the hustle!), people especially Turkish detectives behave weirdly, specificially towards the guest detective.

At least directors could decide where English language should be spoken and where not! In the second episode Lokman speaks in English to an all-Turkish audience:). I left watching it after second episode!

Good series from USA to Turkiye

[rmrtzv · 8/10 · 6 January 2024]

Quite a good series with a good story.

Good characters, fun comedian conversations is always lovely as relief in a serious situation.

Binge worthy.

Recommended watch for anyone that wants to see a bit of Turkiye.

Liked to see parts of Istanbul that I haven't seen in other Turkish series.

Turkish series are often up to a very high standards even though this one was produced from Miramax and USA.

I often recommend people to watch Turkish drama series.

Loved to see a bit of Ayvalik aswell, a lovely little town on the westcoast next to the aegean see.

Loved to see it, regards from Stockholm, Sweden.

Disappointed deeply

[fatihtuysuz · 2/10 · 25 February 2024]

Those who watch the movie will think that Arabic is the dominant language in Turkey and even ordinary families can speak English at the dinner table. If you wanted, you could also put a camel in the motorized chase scene. Nonsense.

Nobody speaks Arabic in Turkey. Turkish is spoken in Turkey. And the number of families who speak English is zero. What kind of a Türkiye theme can those who watch this think of in a consistent way?

Mr. Haluk. Why do you act in productions that portray Turkey as an Arab country? If everything is for you to make money, let's collect a lira from Turkish citizens and stop having a share in these businesses.