8.4 / 10 (based on 14 reviews)
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Abdelhamid Bouchnak, Chadia Azzouz, Jihed Cherni, Nouh El Rama
Creators: Abdelhamid Bouchnak
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 20 episodes, 8-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Hethoukom (2016)
Nouba (2019)
9 / 10 (based on 1794 reviews)
A historical fiction story that goes back to the 1990s where a passionate suburban young man seeks his destiny in the dark streets of the Tunisian capital, stumbles across love, on his journey of perfecting the art of traditional Mezwed.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Music, Romance
Main Cast: Fethi Haddaoui, Rim Riahi, Kamel Touati, Assem Bettouhami
Creators: Abdelhamid Bouchnak
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 50 episodes, 49.0-minute runtime
Bolice (2015)
8.5 / 10 (based on 520 reviews)
A special police unit of five elite officers, that solves cases the Tunisian Bolice way.
Genre: Action, Comedy, Crime
Main Cast: Kamel Touati, Rym Ben Messaoud, Chedly Arfaoui, Jamil Najjar
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 68 episodes, 25.0-minute runtime
El Maestro (2019)
8.8 / 10 (based on 760 reviews)
When an unfulfilled Tunisian musician loses his job playing with a band at a fancy restaurant, he has no idea that he will end up achieving his dreams by mentoring kids at a juvie. A story of loneliness and injustice that transforms into one of hope, fulfilment and recognition.
Genre: Drama, Music
Main Cast: Ahmed Hafiane, Dorra Zarrouk, Sana Al Habib, Malek Ben Saad
Creators: Lassaad Oueslati
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 20 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
Naouret El Hawa (2014)
8.3 / 10 (based on 204 reviews)
Haythem, a journalist who helps the police in their investigation against Hanane Lahmar, a clinic owner and a mafia boss specialized in organ trafficking and prostitution.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
Main Cast: Aïda Fareh, Fethi Haddaoui, Rim Riahi, Zahira Ben Ammar
Creators: Riadh Samaâli
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 51 episodes
Galb Edhib (2020)
5.7 / 10 (based on 192 reviews)
A historical fiction story that takes place during the French colonization era, from 1948 to 1952, at the beginning of the political clash between Habib Bourguiba and Salah Ben Youssef.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Bassem Hamraoui, Fethi Haddaoui, Jihed Cherni, Mourad Bennefla
Creators: Bassem Hamraoui
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 15 episodes, 35.0-minute runtime
Happy Ness (2013)
7.7 / 10 (based on 31 reviews)
The daily life of an ordinary Tunisian family of four happy members, Hsouna the father, Manou the Mother and their two children Aziz and Farah.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Lotfi Abdelli, Saoussen Maalej, Maram Ben Aziza, Youssef Mrabet
Creators: Majdi Smiri
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 60 episodes, 8.0-minute runtime
In the realm of television, every so often, a show emerges that not only captivates its audience with compelling storytelling but also leaves a lasting impact on its viewers. “Hethoukom” (2016) is one such series. This Tunisian drama, which translates to “You Will Be Judged,” offers a gritty, unfiltered look into the complexities of the judicial system and the myriad ways it intersects with personal lives. Let’s explore what makes “Hethoukom” stand out in a sea of TV dramas.
The Premise
At its core, “Hethoukom” is a legal drama, but to pigeonhole it as just another courtroom series would be a disservice. The show weaves together the personal and professional lives of its characters, particularly focusing on a group of lawyers, judges, and prosecutors as they navigate the challenges of their careers and the impact their work has on their personal lives. The series is set against the backdrop of contemporary Tunisia, offering viewers a nuanced exploration of legal, social, and ethical dilemmas.
Characters and Performances
One of the show’s strongest suits is its well-drawn characters. From the ambitious young lawyer fighting to establish herself in a male-dominated field to the seasoned judge wrestling with the moral implications of his rulings, “Hethoukom” presents a diverse cast of characters, each with their own compelling backstory and motivations.
The performances are equally noteworthy. The actors bring depth and nuance to their roles, making the characters’ struggles and triumphs feel both personal and universal. This level of performance adds a layer of authenticity to the show, drawing the audience deeper into the story.
Themes and Social Commentary
“Hethoukom” doesn’t shy away from tackling complex themes. The show addresses issues such as corruption within the legal system, the challenges of reform, and the impact of societal expectations on individual choices. It also delves into more personal themes, such as the struggle for identity and the quest for justice in a flawed system.
The series is commendable for its willingness to engage with these topics in a thoughtful and nuanced manner. It encourages viewers to reflect on the nature of justice and the role of the legal system in society, making it not just entertaining but also intellectually stimulating.
Cinematography and Setting
The visual storytelling in “Hethoukom” deserves a special mention. The cinematography captures the beauty and complexity of Tunisia, from the bustling streets of its cities to the quiet dignity of its rural landscapes. The setting plays a crucial role in the series, not just as a backdrop but as a character in its own right, reflecting the cultural and social context in which the story unfolds.
The use of lighting and color also adds to the show’s atmosphere, creating a mood that shifts between hope and despair, mirroring the internal conflicts of the characters. This attention to visual detail enriches the storytelling, making the series a feast for the eyes as well as the mind.
Impact and Legacy
Since its debut, “Hethoukom” has left a mark not just on its viewers but also on the landscape of Tunisian television. The show has been praised for its realistic portrayal of the legal system and its exploration of social issues, setting a new standard for storytelling in Tunisian media.
Moreover, “Hethoukom” has sparked conversations about the themes it addresses, from the need for legal reform to the role of women in the judiciary. It has become a point of reference in discussions about the power of television to inspire change and raise awareness about important issues.
Conclusion
In a world where TV dramas often rely on sensationalism and spectacle, “Hethoukom” stands out for its commitment to realism, character depth, and social commentary. The series offers a compelling look at the human stories behind the legal cases, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the complexities of justice and the human condition.
Whether you’re drawn to the intricate plot, the richly drawn characters, or the beautiful setting, “Hethoukom” is a series that rewards viewers with a thoughtful, engaging viewing experience. It’s a reminder of the power of television to not only entertain but also enlighten and inspire.