Turkish TV series (dizi) and films have exploded in global popularity over the past decade, captivating audiences from Latin America to South Asia. In fact, Turkey is now second only to the US in worldwide TV distribution – a testament to the international appeal of its storytelling. In this ultimate list, we’ll explore a curated selection of all-time classics and recent hits across romance, thriller, drama, comedy, and historical genres. Each recommendation comes with a short synopsis, release year, notable cast, genre, and tips on where you can stream it internationally. From sweeping Ottoman-era epics to heart-wrenching modern dramas, get ready to dive into Turkish entertainment and discover what makes these series and movies unique in culture and storytelling.
Tip: All titles are presented with their English names (if available) followed by the original Turkish title. Many are available with English subtitles or dubs on platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and others – so you can start watching right away!
Best Turkish Web Series to Binge
Turkish dramas (TV series or web series) have become a global phenomenon, often running for multiple seasons with movie-length episodes packed with emotion. Below are some of the must-watch Turkish series, spanning historical sagas, addictive romances, and thought-provoking dramas.
Resurrection: Ertuğrul (Diriliş: Ertuğrul, 2014–2019) – Historical Adventure
Synopsis: Set in 13th-century Anatolia, this epic series follows Ertuğrul Bey (Engin Altan Düzyatan), the brave father of Osman I (founder of the Ottoman Empire). We watch Ertuğrul lead his Kayı tribe through battles and political intrigues against Crusaders, Mongols, and traitors, all while upholding justice and Islamic values. With five seasons of sweeping romance, intense sword fights, and opulent costumes, Resurrection: Ertuğrul has often been dubbed the “Muslim Game of Thrones” for its blend of adventure and faith.
Notable Cast: Engin Altan Düzyatan, Esra Bilgiç, Hülya Darcan
Genre: Historical drama, Adventure
Cultural Impact: A global sensation, the series has been dubbed into six languages and broadcast in 72 countries, amassing over 1.5 billion YouTube views. Even dignitaries like Venezuela’s president Nicolás Maduro and Pakistan’s PM have counted among its fans. It’s the show that put Turkish period dramas on the world map, sparking tourism to historic sites in Turkey.
Where to Stream: Available on Netflix in many regions as Resurrection: Ertugrul. Also find episodes on YouTube (TRT’s official channel) with subtitles.
Magnificent Century (Muhteşem Yüzyıl, 2011–2014) – Historical Drama
Synopsis: This lavish period drama invites you into the opulent Ottoman palace of Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent (Halit Ergenç). It chronicles his reign and his passionate love affair with Hürrem Sultan (Meryem Uzerli), a former concubine who rose to become his queen. Full of palace intrigue, scheming viziers, and forbidden romances, Magnificent Century mixes historical facts with soap-opera flair. Each episode brims with extravagant costumes and grand sets as it portrays power struggles in the empire and the harem.
Notable Cast: Halit Ergenç, Meryem Uzerli (seasons 1–3) / Vahide Perçin (season 4), Nebahat Çehre
Genre: Historical drama
Cultural Impact: This series was a game-changer for Turkish TV internationally. It claimed one-third of Turkey’s TV audience during its run and became a smash hit across the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and beyond. The foreign press even called it an “Ottoman-era Sex and the City” meets a real-life Game of Thrones for its mix of glamour and intrigue. At its peak, Magnificent Century was reportedly seen by over 500 million people worldwide. Its popularity boosted tourism to Istanbul (as fans flocked to see Ottoman heritage sites) and paved the way for countless other Turkish series internationally.
Where to Stream: All episodes are available on YouTube with English subtitles (official channel). Some regions may find it on Netflix or other streaming services as well.
Forbidden Love (Aşk-ı Memnu, 2008–2010) – Romantic Drama
Synopsis: Set in modern Istanbul’s high society, Forbidden Love revolves around a dangerously passionate affair in the Ziyagil family. Bihter (Beren Saat), a beautiful young widow, marries an older wealthy widower, Adnan (Selçuk Yöntem). But she soon finds herself irresistibly drawn to Adnan’s handsome nephew Behlül (Kıvanç Tatlıtuğ). As secret love blooms between Bihter and Behlül under the same roof, the series builds toward an explosive climax. Expect lavish mansions, stolen glances, family scandals, and melodrama at its finest.
Notable Cast: Beren Saat, Kıvanç Tatlıtuğ, Selçuk Yöntem, Nebahat Çehre
Genre: Romance, Drama
Cultural Impact: Adapted from a classic Turkish novel, this series is a classic itself – arguably one of the most iconic Turkish melodramas ever made. Its final episode in 2010 reportedly stopped nationwide traffic as people rushed home to watch it live. Forbidden Love became a massive hit across the Middle East and South Asia once dubbed in local languages, cementing its stars as international celebrities. The on-screen chemistry of Beren Saat and Kıvanç Tatlıtuğ set a new standard for Turkish romances.
Where to Stream: You can watch it on YouTube (search for “Forbidden Love English subtitles” – Kanal D’s official channel has episodes and highlights). It’s also available on some platforms like Amazon Prime Video in certain regions.
Endless Love (Kara Sevda, 2015–2017) – Romance / Telenovela
Synopsis: Endless Love tells the story of star-crossed lovers from different worlds. Kemal (Burak Özçivit) is a humble engineer’s son, and Nihan (Neslihan Atagül) is a rich artist. They fall deeply in love, but class differences and a dark secret force them apart. Enter Emir (Kaan Urgancıoğlu), a powerful man obsessively in love with Nihan, who will stop at nothing to possess her. Over two seasons, the series weaves twists of betrayal, murder, and undying love as Kemal and Nihan fight fate to be together. Keep tissues handy – this one’s an emotional rollercoaster.
Notable Cast: Burak Özçivit, Neslihan Atagül, Kaan Urgancıoğlu
Genre: Romantic drama, Telenovela-style thriller
Cultural Impact: Endless Love made history as the first Turkish TV series to win an International Emmy Award – winning Best Telenovela in 2017. It was broadcast in 60+ countries and dubbed into languages from Italian to Arabic, massively expanding the global fanbase of Turkish dramas. The sizzling chemistry and high production quality set a benchmark, and viewers worldwide became hooked on its blend of romance and high-stakes drama.
Where to Stream: Official full episodes with English subtitles are available on YouTube (look for the Kara Sevda channel or playlists titled “Endless Love English Subtitles”). Some regions may find it on local streaming services or MX Player (for South Asia).
What is Fatmagül’s Fault? (Fatmagül’ün Suçu Ne?, 2010–2012) – Social Drama/Romance
Synopsis: This powerful series centers on Fatmagül (Beren Saat), a village girl whose life is shattered after she is sexually assaulted by four young men from an influential family. To cover up the crime, she’s pressured into marrying Kerim (Engin Akyürek), one of the perpetrators – although he was an unwilling participant and later falls in love with her. The story follows Fatmagül’s courageous journey for justice and healing, as she overcomes shame and fights against a wealthy family’s attempts to silence her. It’s a moving tale of resilience, love, and social commentary on violence against women.
Notable Cast: Beren Saat, Engin Akyürek, Fırat Çelik, Sumru Yavrucuk
Genre: Drama, Romance
Cultural Impact: Fatmagül became a worldwide phenomenon and a touchstone for discussing women’s rights. It was hugely popular across the Middle East, South Asia, and Latin America – broadcast in 37 countries including Argentina, India, and the USA. In Spain, its primetime broadcasts drew nearly a million viewers per episode and a Spanish remake of the series is in the works. Beyond ratings, this show had cultural impact by sparking conversations about sexual violence and the stigma victims face, a rarity for mainstream TV at the time.
Where to Stream: Official YouTube channels (e.g. “Fatmagul English Dubbed” playlist) have episodes – some are dubbed in English, others subtitled. In the Americas, you might find it on streaming services like VIX (Spanish ad-supported streaming) or on Amazon Prime (with English subtitles).
Persona (Şahsiyet, 2018) – Crime/Thriller Mini-Series
Synopsis: Persona is a dark, gripping thriller that follows Agâh (Haluk Bilginer), a retired court clerk in Istanbul who is diagnosed with early Alzheimer’s. Instead of despairing, he sees his looming memory loss as a chance to get away with crimes – and embarks on a mission to punish criminals who escaped justice. At the same time, Nevra (Cansu Dere), a determined young detective, is hot on the trail of a serial killer leaving mysterious messages. As their paths converge, secrets from the past emerge. With its psychological depth and moral ambiguity, this 12-episode mini-series will keep you guessing.
Notable Cast: Haluk Bilginer, Cansu Dere, Şebnem Bozoklu
Genre: Crime thriller, Psychological drama
Cultural Impact: Widely acclaimed for its storytelling and performances, Persona has a 9+ rating on IMDb and won Turkey lots of prestige when veteran actor Haluk Bilginer won the International Emmy Award for Best Actor for his role as Agâh. This was a first for a Turkish actor, putting Persona on the radar of thriller fans worldwide. The show’s exploration of justice and memory, along with Bilginer’s chilling yet poignant performance, make it a standout in the genre.
Where to Stream: Internationally, Persona (with English subtitles) can be found on Amazon Prime Video in some regions (via the MHz Choice channel) and on PuhuTV (a Turkish streaming site) for free. It may also be available on niche platforms like MUBI or Plex with subtitles.
The Protector (Hakan: Muhafız, 2018–2020) – Fantasy/Action
Synopsis: The Protector is a fast-paced urban fantasy set in modern Istanbul. Hakan (Çağatay Ulusoy) is an ordinary shopkeeper whose life turns upside down when he discovers he’s part of an ancient secret order sworn to protect the city. Inherited powers, a mystical talismanic shirt, and immortal enemies – suddenly Hakan is the last Protector standing between Istanbul and shadowy forces seeking its destruction. Across four seasons, we see Hakan grapple with his destiny, aided by the Loyal Ones, as he battles dark immortals in a mix of legend and superhero-style action.
Notable Cast: Çağatay Ulusoy, Hazar Ergüçlü, Ayça Ayşin Turan
Genre: Fantasy, Action, Superhero
Cultural Impact: This series has the distinction of being Netflix’s first Turkish original series, marking a major milestone for Turkish productions on global streaming. When The Protector premiered in late 2018, it quickly gained a worldwide following – introducing international audiences to Turkish sci-fi/fantasy. The show’s success (reportedly ~20 million viewers globally in its first season) opened the door for more Turkish Netflix originals and even sparked tourist interest in Istanbul’s landmarks featured on the show. It’s a fun genre-bending ride that put Turkey on the map in the realm of supernatural series.
Where to Stream: Netflix (available globally). Just search for “The Protector” on Netflix and you’re set to binge this adventure.
The Gift (Atiye, 2019–2021) – Mystery/Thriller
Synopsis: The Gift is a supernatural mystery drama that follows Atiye (Beren Saat), a young painter in Istanbul, whose life changes after she discovers she’s connected to ancient symbols unearthed at Göbeklitepe – one of the world’s oldest temples. As Atiye digs deeper, she realizes she has spiritual ties to this archaeological site and a mission that transcends time. The series blends family secrets, Turkish mythology, and thriller elements as Atiye and archaeologist Erhan (Mehmet Günsür) race to uncover the truth. Over three seasons, expect plenty of mystique, gorgeous Anatolian landscapes, and mind-bending twists about fate and free will.
Notable Cast: Beren Saat, Mehmet Günsür, Metin Akdülger, Melisa Şenolsun
Genre: Mystery, Supernatural thriller
Cultural Impact: The Gift was Netflix’s second big Turkish original, riding on The Protector’s success but carving out its own acclaim. Notably, it spotlighted Göbeklitepe – a real 12,000-year-old temple site in Turkey – which piqued international curiosity about Turkey’s prehistoric heritage. The show earned praise for weaving Anatolian folklore and history into a modern thriller format. It also offered a female-driven narrative in a genre dominated by male heroes. For many global viewers, The Gift was an intriguing introduction to Turkey’s blend of modern life and ancient mysticism.
Where to Stream: Netflix worldwide. All three seasons are available with a variety of subtitle options.
Ethos (Bir Başkadır, 2020) – Drama
Synopsis: Ethos is a refreshingly intimate drama series that paints a mosaic of Istanbul through intersecting lives. It revolves around Meryem (Öykü Karayel), a part-time cleaner from a conservative family who begins seeing a secular therapist. Through Meryem’s story, we meet a diverse cast: her traditional brother and his wife, the wealthy therapist with her own issues, a famous actress, a nosy landlady, and more. Each episode peels back layers of Turkey’s social fabric – exploring themes of class, religion, identity, and mental health. With its slower pace and character-driven storytelling, Ethos offers a candid look at the connections and clashes between people from vastly different walks of Turkish life.
Notable Cast: Öykü Karayel, Fatih Artman, Funda Eryiğit, Defne Kayalar
Genre: Drama, Social issues
Cultural Impact: Hailed by critics as one of Turkey’s most insightful contemporary series, Ethos generated passionate discussions at home and abroad. It was lauded for authentically portraying Turkey’s societal contrasts – from headscarf-wearing rural migrants to urban intellectuals – without stereotypes. The series resonated with viewers globally for its universal themes of understanding and empathy across cultural divides. Many praised it as a breakthrough in Turkish storytelling for its nuanced, art-house style (some even calling it “Turkey’s answer to Roma” in tone). If you’re looking for a thought-provoking, conversation-starting show, Ethos is a must-watch.
Where to Stream: Netflix (as an original, it’s available internationally). Check under “Ethos” or its Turkish title “Bir Başkadır.”
Daydreamer (Erkenci Kuş, 2018–2019) – Romantic Comedy
Synopsis: Need something light and feel-good? Daydreamer is a sweet, funny romantic comedy series that became a global guilty pleasure. The story follows Sanem (Demet Özdemir), an aspiring writer with a wild imagination, who takes up a job at an advertising agency. There she meets Can (Can Yaman), the free-spirited, charismatic creative director who also happens to be the owner’s son. Sparks fly (and how!) as the quirky Sanem and the dashing Can navigate office schemes, jealous exes, and family expectations. Filled with hilarious situations and swoon-worthy moments – from mistaking identities to romantic trips – this series is the perfect escapist watch.
Notable Cast: Demet Özdemir, Can Yaman, Özlem Tokaslan
Genre: Romantic comedy
Cultural Impact: Daydreamer (original title means “Early Bird”) catapulted its leads to international fame – especially actor Can Yaman, who gained a massive fan following in Italy, Spain, and beyond. The show’s lighthearted romance and chemistry made it a hit in Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America, proving Turkish series aren’t only about intense drama but can do rom-com right. It’s been dubbed into multiple languages and aired in over 20 countries. Fans loved how it blended classic soap tropes with genuine humor and heart, making it one of the most exported Turkish romantic comedies in recent years.
Where to Stream: Selected episodes (with English subtitles) are available on YouTube via official channels (search for “Erkenci Kuş English Sub”). In some regions, local TV networks or platforms (like Italy’s Mediaset or Spain’s Divinity channel site) offer the full series dubbed. You may also find it on unofficial streaming sites, but always be cautious and look for legal sources first.
(The above series list covers a range of genres and eras. Whether you’re in the mood for a historical epic, a steamy forbidden romance, or a gritty crime thriller, there’s a Turkish dizi here for you! Now, let’s switch gears and explore the must-watch Turkish movies…)
Best Turkish Movies to Watch
Turkish cinema is rich with poignant dramas, internationally acclaimed art films, and crowd-pleasing hits. Here we highlight some of the best Turkish movies – from vintage classics to modern blockbusters – each with a note on why it’s special and how you can watch it.
Yol (“The Road”, 1982) – Gritty Classic Drama
Synopsis: Yol offers an unflinching look at Turkey in the aftermath of the 1980 military coup. The film follows five prisoners who are granted a week-long home furlough. As each man journeys back to his village or family, we witness harsh realities across different parts of Turkey – from honor killings and feudal oppression to the Kurdish plight. It’s a somber road-trip tapestry of societal injustice, with minimalistic dialogue but powerful storytelling.
Notable Crew/Cast: Directed by Şerif Gören & Yılmaz Güney; starring Tarık Akan, Şerif Sezer. (Yılmaz Güney, who wrote the film, was a famous filmmaker/actor in prison at the time – he astonishingly coordinated production through letters.)
Genre: Drama, Social commentary
Cultural Impact: This is an all-time classic of Turkish cinema. Yol won the top prize Palme d’Or at the 1982 Cannes Film Festival (shared, but still a huge honor), bringing global attention to Turkey’s film industry. Controversially, the film was banned in Turkey for years due to its political themes, but it became legendary abroad as a courageous piece of cinema. Even decades later, Yol is revered for its raw portrayal of Turkey’s societal struggles and remains a reference point in film schools.
Where to Stream: Yol can be tricky to find, but it’s occasionally available on art-house streaming platforms. Look for it on DVD or Blu-ray (restored versions exist). In some regions, university libraries or services like Kanopy (library streaming) may carry it. There is also a Turkish film channel on YouTube that has posted Yol (in Turkish), but for English subtitles you might need to seek out specialty sites or a physical copy.
The Bandit (Eşkıya, 1996) – Crime/Drama
Synopsis: After serving 35 years in prison, an old-school bandit named Baran (Şener Şen) returns to a very different Istanbul. He learns that his former best friend betrayed him, stole his bride, and built a crime empire. Teaming up with a young street hustler (Uğur Yücel) he meets by chance, Baran navigates the urban jungle to find his old foe and lost love. The Bandit is equal parts gangster thriller and character study, mixing shootouts and chases with bittersweet humor and nostalgia for honor among thieves.
Notable Cast: Şener Şen, Uğur Yücel
Genre: Crime drama, Action
Cultural Impact: Eşkıya is often credited with reviving Turkish cinema in the 1990s. It was a massive box-office success in Turkey, becoming the country’s highest-grossing film at that time and proving that local films could beat Hollywood imports. Many Turks fondly recall it as a modern classic. Its story of old vs. new, tradition vs. progress, resonated deeply in a Turkey undergoing rapid change. While it didn’t make huge waves internationally, it was submitted as Turkey’s Oscar entry and remains highly rated by those who discover it. If you ask Turkish cinephiles, The Bandit frequently ranks among the best Turkish films of all time for its storytelling and the iconic performance by Şener Şen.
Where to Stream: Look for The Bandit on YouTube (some users have uploaded it with subtitles) or rental platforms. It might not be on mainstream international streaming, but it’s worth seeking out via DVD or online stores that offer Turkish films.
Head-On (Gegen die Wand, 2004) – Intense Drama/Romance
Synopsis: This raw, punk-spirited drama (a Turkish-German co-production) follows two Turkish immigrants in Germany whose turbulent lives collide. Cahit (Birol Ünel) is a 40-something alcoholic living recklessly in Hamburg. Sibel (Sibel Kekilli) is a young woman desperate to escape her conservative family. Sibel proposes a marriage of convenience so she can taste freedom – and Cahit, nihilistic but kind at heart, agrees. What starts as an arrangement spirals into a destructive love story filled with sex, drugs, rock music, and emotional chaos. Head-On doesn’t shy from gritty realism as it portrays two lost souls trying to save each other.
Notable Cast: Birol Ünel, Sibel Kekilli
Director: Fatih Akin
Genre: Drama, Romance (adult themes)
Cultural Impact: Head-On was a breakthrough for director Fatih Akin and for Turkish representation in European cinema. It won the Golden Bear at the 2004 Berlin International Film Festival – a major award signaling global acclaim. The film’s unflinching look at identity, mental health, and diaspora struggles resonated widely, especially among younger generations of Turks and Europeans. Sibel Kekilli’s brave performance (in her debut role) and Birol Ünel’s intensity drew critical raves. To this day, Head-On is celebrated as a daring, emotionally powerful film that pushed the envelope for Turkish stories on the world stage.
Where to Stream: In the US/UK, Head-On can often be found on Amazon Prime (for rent or on channels like Strand Releasing or MUBI). It may also be on DVD with English subtitles. Some regions have it on Disney+ (under the Star section) or on art film platforms. Check JustWatch for your country’s options.
My Father and My Son (Babam ve Oğlum, 2005) – Family Drama
Synopsis: Grab your tissues – this heartfelt drama is famous for making even the toughest viewers cry. Set against the backdrop of the 1980 military coup, the story follows Sadık (Fikret Kuşkan), a leftist journalist who returns to his Aegean hometown with his young son, Deniz, after years of estrangement from his family. Sadık’s father Hüseyin (Çetin Tekindor), a stern farmer, has never forgiven him for leaving the farm to pursue politics. Now Sadık is gravely ill, and grandfather Hüseyin must bond with little Deniz while coming to terms with past mistakes. The film gently explores reconciliation, generational divides, and the enduring love between parents and children.
Notable Cast: Çetin Tekindor, Fikret Kuşkan, Hümeyra, Ege Tanman (as Deniz)
Genre: Drama, Family
Cultural Impact: Babam ve Oğlum is often cited as one of the most beloved Turkish films of the 2000s. It was a domestic box office hit and became renowned for reducing audiences to sobbing wrecks (in a good way!). The movie struck a chord with its authentic portrayal of familial love and loss, set during a turbulent historical moment. Many viewers across different countries found its emotional story universal – you don’t have to be Turkish to appreciate the catharsis this film provides. Years later, it’s still recommended as the Turkish movie to watch if you need a good cry and a warm hug for the heart.
Where to Stream: My Father and My Son might not be on big global platforms, but you can find it on YouTube with English subtitles (uploaded by fans or Turkish cinema channels). DVDs with subtitles are available, and it sometimes appears on specialty streaming services or TV in South Asia (it was once on India’s Zindagi channel). Check online stores or Turkish film collections if needed.
Once Upon a Time in Anatolia (Bir Zamanlar Anadolu’da, 2011) – Crime/Art House Drama
Synopsis: This slow-burn, atmospheric film from auteur Nuri Bilge Ceylan is like a mesmerizing journey through the Anatolian steppes. The plot is deceptively simple: a group of men – including a police commissioner, a prosecutor, a doctor, and two murder suspects – drive through rural Anatolia one long night, searching for a buried body. As they stop at windy hills and remote villages, conversations unfold, secrets are hinted, and the mundane mixes with the profound. Once Upon a Time in Anatolia is as much about the journey as the destination, offering meditations on guilt, bureaucracy, and the human condition amid sweeping landscapes.
Notable Cast: Muhammet Uzuner, Yılmaz Erdoğan, Taner Birsel
Director: Nuri Bilge Ceylan
Genre: Crime drama, Art film
Cultural Impact: Widely hailed as a masterpiece of modern Turkish cinema, this film won the Grand Prix at Cannes in 2011, solidifying Ceylan’s status as one of the world’s great directors. It’s the kind of film that critics and cinephiles adore – meticulously crafted long takes, rich visuals, and layers of meaning that reveal themselves upon reflection. While its slow pace isn’t for all tastes, those who appreciate art-house cinema consider it a must-watch. Internationally, it brought more prestige to Turkish filmmaking, showing that a movie could be deeply rooted in Anatolian culture yet universally resonant.
Where to Stream: Once Upon a Time in Anatolia is available to rent or buy on Apple TV in some countries. You might also find it on the BFI Player (UK, Kanopy (with a library card), or MUBI on occasion. DVDs/Blu-rays are widely sold for this acclaimed title.
Winter Sleep (Kış Uykusu, 2014) – Drama
Synopsis: Set in the stunningly stark landscape of Cappadocia in central Turkey, Winter Sleep delves into the psyche of Aydin (Haluk Bilginer), a retired actor who runs a small hotel with his much younger wife Nihal (Melisa Sözen) and his recently divorced sister. As snow begins to blanket the region for the winter, tensions brew inside the hotel. Through extended, insightful dialogues, the film examines class divisions (Aydin is also a landlord to poor villagers), marital strain, ego, and morality. It’s essentially a chamber drama wrapped in a beautiful, isolated winter setting – think of it as a Chekhovian character study spread over 3 hours.
Notable Cast: Haluk Bilginer, Melisa Sözen, Demet Akbağ
Director: Nuri Bilge Ceylan
Genre: Drama, Psychological
Cultural Impact: Winter Sleep took home the Palme d’Or at Cannes 2014, one of the highest honors in cinema, making it a shining moment for Turkish film on the world stage. The film earned rave reviews for its screenplay and performances (Haluk Bilginer is phenomenal as always). It’s a demanding watch (with long philosophical conversations), but many consider it Ceylan’s magnum opus and a must-see for serious film enthusiasts interested in Turkey’s social dynamics. Domestically, it sparked discussions about the rich-poor divide and the responsibility of intellectuals in society. This is the kind of film that ends up on “Best films of the decade” lists.
Where to Stream: Winter Sleep can be streamed on platforms like Kanopy or Hoopla (free with library in some regions). It’s also available to rent/purchase on Apple TV, Amazon Video, etc.. If you have the Criterion Channel or similar, check there as well, since it’s an award winner.
Mustang (2015) – Coming-of-Age Drama
Synopsis: Set in a conservative rural Turkish village, Mustang follows five young orphaned sisters whose innocent play with some boys on the beach sparks scandalous gossip. Fearing any tarnish to the girls’ honor, their guardian relatives react by essentially imprisoning them at home and arranging marriages to quash any “indecency.” The sisters, however, are free-spirited (the film’s title refers to wild horses) and yearn for agency over their lives. Through the eyes of the youngest sister, we witness their defiant attempts at freedom, the bond between them, and the clash between youth and restrictive tradition. The story is both heartbreaking and empowering.
Notable Cast: Güneş Şensoy, Doğa Doğuşlu, Elit İşcan (all five lead actresses give natural, heartfelt performances)
Director: Deniz Gamze Ergüven
Genre: Drama, Coming-of-age
Cultural Impact: Mustang gained international acclaim, often drawing comparisons to Sofia Coppola’s The Virgin Suicides (for its theme of sisters under repression). It was nominated for an Academy Award (Best Foreign Language Film) in 2016 – a rare feat for a Turkish-language film (though technically it’s a French-Turkish production). Winning awards at Cannes and César (the French Oscars), Mustang introduced global audiences to a different side of Turkish society and sparked dialogue on women’s rights and freedom. In Turkey, reactions were mixed (some conservatives found it exaggerated, while many others praised it), but internationally it’s widely regarded as a gem – a poignant, universal story of sisterhood and resistance.
Where to Stream: Mustang is currently available on Tubi (free streaming in some regions) and Kanopy. You can also rent/buy it on Amazon Prime or Apple TV. In some places, it might stream on the Cohen Media Channel (since Cohen Media Group distributes it).
The Butterfly’s Dream (Kelebeğin Rüyası, 2013) – Period Romance/Drama
Synopsis: This visually stunning film is set in the early 1940s during World War II, in a small coal-mining town in northern Turkey. It’s based on the true story of two young poets, Rüştü Onur (Mert Fırat) and Muzaffer Tayyip Uslu (Kıvanç Tatlıtuğ), who are best friends and struggling to get their poems published. Both men suffer from tuberculosis and live in poverty, yet find escape and hope through literature. When they both fall in love with the same pretty socialite, Suzan (Belçim Bilgin), they make a bet: each will write a poem, and Suzan will choose the best – the “winner” gets to ask her out. What follows is a heartfelt tale of love, friendship, art, and fate.
Notable Cast: Kıvanç Tatlıtuğ, Mert Fırat, Belçim Bilgin; written and directed by Yılmaz Erdoğan (who also appears as a teacher)
Genre: Drama, Romance, Biographical
Cultural Impact: The Butterfly’s Dream was Turkey’s Oscar submission for 2013 and was well-received for its cinematography, music, and emotional depth. It offers a window into a bygone era – wartime Turkey – with beautiful period detail and a poetic soul (befitting its subject). The performances, especially by heartthrob Kıvanç Tatlıtuğ (in a transformative role far from his usual TV persona), impressed many. While it didn’t make a huge splash in Western markets, it found a broad audience thanks to Netflix availability and is often recommended to those looking for a romantic Turkish film beyond the usual fare. It’s a film that celebrates creativity and resilience in the face of hardship, leaving many viewers deeply moved by the end.
Where to Stream: The Butterfly’s Dream has been available on Netflix in several countries (availability can vary, but check Netflix first). If not on Netflix, it might be on Apple TV for rent or YouTube Movies. It’s also on DVD with subtitles. Given its past presence on Netflix, there’s a good chance you can stream it there or on a similar platform in your region.
Ayla: The Daughter of War (2017) – War Drama
Synopsis: This touching film is based on an incredible true story from the Korean War. In 1950, a Turkish army sergeant, Süleyman (İsmail Hacıoğlu), serving in the UN forces in Korea, finds a half-frozen little Korean girl on the battlefield – alone and scared. He rescues her, names her Ayla (meaning “halo” or “moonlight” in Turkish), and she quickly becomes the company’s darling. Süleyman cares for Ayla as if she were his own daughter for the 15 months of his deployment. But when the war ends, military bureaucracy forces Süleyman to part with Ayla. The film follows their deep father-daughter bond and the heart-wrenching separation, leading up to whether they will ever reunite decades later.
Notable Cast: İsmail Hacıoğlu, Kim Seol (as little Ayla), Çetin Tekindor, Lee Kyung-jin
Genre: War drama, Biographical
Cultural Impact: Ayla was a major commercial success in Turkey and struck an emotional chord internationally, especially in South Korea. It showcases a unique historical friendship between Turkey and Korea (Turkey sent troops to aid South Korea, and to this day Koreans remember “Little Ayla” as a symbol of that camaraderie). The film was Turkey’s submission to the Oscars in 2017 and won awards at various international festivals (often the Audience Award, because who can resist crying at this story?). For many viewers, Ayla was an introduction to Turkey’s role in the Korean War and a reminder of our common humanity in times of conflict.
Where to Stream: Ayla (sometimes subtitled “Ayla: The Daughter of War”) can be found on Amazon Prime Video (in some regions it’s included, in others rentable. It’s also available on Peacock in the US and often on Tubi or Plex (ad-supported). Check if it’s on any free streaming services in your area. The film is partly in Turkish, partly in Korean, so make sure to get a subtitled version.
Miracle in Cell No. 7 (7. Koğuştaki Mucize, 2019) – Heartfelt Drama
Synopsis: Set in the 1980s, this emotional drama centers on Memo (Aras Bulut İynemli), a shepherd with an intellectual disability, who lives happily with his young daughter Ova and his grandmother. Their life is shattered when Memo is wrongfully accused of murdering a military commander’s child and is sent to prison. Behind bars, Memo’s pure-hearted nature gradually wins over his cellmates, and together they devise a daring plan to reunite him with Ova. It’s a story of parental love, injustice, and unlikely friendships that will likely have you both smiling and sobbing. (Yes, it’s a remake of a South Korean film, but this Turkish version took the world by storm!)
Notable Cast: Aras Bulut İynemli, Nisa Sofiya Aksongur (as Ova), Deniz Baysal, Celile Toyon
Genre: Drama, Tearjerker
Cultural Impact: Miracle in Cell No. 7 became an international breakout hit when it landed on Netflix during the 2020 pandemic – topping Netflix charts in France, Latin America, and beyond. Audiences worldwide were moved by its poignant father-daughter story; it was one of those word-of-mouth sensations where you’d see people posting “You must watch this movie!” on social media (with a box of tissues). In Turkey, it was the most-watched film of 2019 in theaters While some critics call it melodramatic, fans embrace it for the heartfelt performances (Aras Bulut İynemli is outstanding as Memo) and the way it highlights themes of kindness and hope even in dark times.
Where to Stream: Netflix globally – this is the easiest way to watch, as the film is available in most countries on Netflix. Just search for Miracle in Cell No. 7 on Netflix. If you don’t have Netflix, it might be on other local platforms or available for digital purchase, but Netflix is where it gained its fame.
🎬 Final Thoughts: From sweeping TV epics that rival anything from Hollywood, to art-house films winning top awards at Cannes, Turkish storytellers have proven their versatility and cultural richness. This ultimate list introduced you to historical heroes, star-crossed lovers, resilient heroines, and everyman heroes – a lineup as diverse as Turkey itself. Whether you were drawn in by the romance of a period drama or found yourself contemplating life after an auteur’s film, you’ve tasted a bit of the passion and depth that Turkish series and movies offer.
Ready for more? The world of Turkish entertainment is vast. If you enjoyed the historical series here, you might explore Kuruluş: Osman (the follow-up to Ertuğrul). If you loved the family drama, check out other beloved dizis like “Öyle Bir Geçer Zaman Ki” (As Time Goes By) or films by director Çağan Irmak. And if the art films intrigued you, directors like Nuri Bilge Ceylan and Fatih Akin have rich filmographies worth diving into.
Happy watching (iyi seyirler)! And let us know which Turkish series or movie becomes your new favorite – sometimes the stories from a different culture can unexpectedly feel the most familiar and human of all. Enjoy your journey through Turkish cinema and television!