Shows Like Istanbul Hesabi (2020)

Ahmet Mümtaz Taylan in Istanbul Hesabi (2020)

8.5 / 10 (based on 235 reviews)

Is it possible to enjoy Istanbul with only 50 TL? Ahmet Mumtaz Taylan goes after the most delicious meals at the best prices.

Genre: Reality-TV

Main Cast: Ahmet Mümtaz Taylan
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1 season, 20 episodes, 11-minute runtime

Shows Most Like Istanbul Hesabi (2020)

Metot (2021)

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8.1 / 10 (based on 1119 reviews)

Called for a job interview, four candidates go through a dark, mysterious, brutal test to get the job.

Genre: Drama

Main Cast: Serkan Keskin, Sebnem Hassanisoughi, Mustafa Kirantepe, Sarp Aydinoglu
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1 season, 4 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime

Ayak Isleri (2021)

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8.3 / 10 (based on 3447 reviews)

Experienced missionary Vedat and philosophy-educated, politically correct Evren are the duo assigned to the ‘extremely important’ errands of a wealthy businessman. This discordant duo, one of whom closes his eyes and does his duty, questions his name, embarks on another adventure. But more they conflict within themselves than they do on duty.

Genre: Action, Comedy

Main Cast: Çaglar Çorumlu, Güven Murat Akpinar, Cagla Irmak, Sebnem Sönmez
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2 seasons, 11 episodes, 20.0-minute runtime

10 Bin Adim (2020)

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7.8 / 10 (based on 2101 reviews)

Two ex-lovers Ezgi and Memet decide to take 10 thousand steps by walking together every day. Different things happen to them every day. But they still keep taking steps every day.

Genre: Comedy, Drama

Main Cast: Engin Günaydin, Devin Özgür Çinar, Ferit Aktug, Sebnem Dönmez
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2 seasons, 12 episodes, 11.0-minute runtime

Terapist (2021)

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7.2 / 10 (based on 1044 reviews)

A therapist begins to suspect his clients after the murder of his wife.

Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller

Main Cast: Muhammet Uzuner, Murat Kiliç, Zeynep Çamci, Ilayda Alisan
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1 season, 7 episodes, 10.0-minute runtime

Ilginç Bazi Olaylar (2021)

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6.7 / 10 (based on 869 reviews)

What kind of life would Ibrahim Büyükak have if he did not pursue his dreams and continued to stay with his family in Bursa? Abandoned by his fiancee and living with his family, 35-year-old Ibrahim will go his own way?

Genre: Comedy

Main Cast: Metehan Sahiner, Ibrahim Büyükak, Idil Sivritepe, Cemre Ebuzziya
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1 season, 10 episodes

Bizi Ayiran Çizgi (2021)

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5.9 / 10 (based on 282 reviews)

Sinem dies in a terrorist attack in Istanbul. With the news of Sinem’s death, his lover Sinan, who started to break with life and reality day by day, must return to the line that separates him from Sinem and save Sinem.

Genre: Drama

Main Cast: Hazal Subasi, Ozan Dolunay
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1 season, 5 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime

Dogu (2021)

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7.2 / 10 (based on 2693 reviews)

Dogu is a young man who is not successful in anything. The dream of Dogu, which is not supported by anyone, is to be a comedian. He strives to make his dream come true.

Genre: Comedy

Main Cast: Dogu Demirkol, Evliya Aykan, Banu Fotocan, Ege Kökenli
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2 seasons, 9 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime

Olum Zamani (2021)

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6.3 / 10 (based on 329 reviews)

The four friends set out to camp together. Along the way, they realize that someone with a caravan is following them and they become uneasy, but they don’t mind. Until one of them woke up in the morning with blood on his head.

Genre: Crime, Thriller

Main Cast: Mert Yazicioglu, Nilsu Berfin Aktas, Ece Yasar, Mert Ramazan Demir
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1 season, 8 episodes

Gibi (2021)

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9 / 10 (based on 16350 reviews)

Yilmaz and Ilkkan are two friends who are constantly fighting each other. Their greatest feature is always being able to do something that will turn their ordinary lives upside down.

Genre: Comedy

Main Cast: Feyyaz Yigit, Kivanç Kilinç, Ahmet Kursat Ocalan, Celal Öztürk
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2 seasons, 13 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime

Senkron (2021)

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6 / 10 (based on 206 reviews)

Time is a science fiction that questions the world we live in and the universe we live in. What if all those things we didn’t choose continue to live in another reality? Meeting on the same day, at the same time, in three different stories, Sedat and Mina face completely different lives that they did not choose in their parallel universe.

Genre: Crime, Sci-Fi, Thriller

Main Cast: Özcan Deniz, Feyza Aktan, Cansel Elcin, Zeynep Tugçe Bayat
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1 season, 6 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime

Ilk Ve Son (2021)

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8.1 / 10 (based on 1806 reviews)

The story of Deniz and Baris’s relationship spanning 10 years. The two young people who met in their mid-20s, until the day they divorced; sometimes sunny, sometimes cloudy, sometimes stormy, sometimes possible, often impossible love story.

Genre: Drama

Main Cast: Özge Özpirinçci, Salih Bademci, Gulcin Kultur Sahin, Serkan Ercan
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2 seasons, 9 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime

Orta Kafa Ask (2021)

Engin Hepileri, Cengiz Bozkurt, Can Sipahi, and Su Kutlu in Orta Kafa Ask (2021)

6.8 / 10 (based on 224 reviews)

The beginning of Semih and Selin’s relationship, the problems they experienced, their separation, and their dating are discussed with the presentation of two football commentators.

Genre: Comedy, Romance

Main Cast: Cengiz Bozkurt, Engin Hepileri, Can Sipahi, Su Kutlu
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1 season, 10 episodes, 20.0-minute runtime


In the realm of television, where shows come and go with the changing seasons, some manage to leave a lasting impression. “Istanbul Hesabi” is one such show. This Turkish drama, which first aired in 2020, has garnered attention for its gripping storyline, complex characters, and vivid portrayal of Istanbul. Let’s delve into what makes “Istanbul Hesabi” stand out, without resorting to the usual fluff.

The Premise

At its core, “Istanbul Hesabi” is a story of revenge and redemption. The plot revolves around a young man who returns to Istanbul after years abroad, seeking to avenge his father’s unjust death. The city, with its blend of ancient charm and modern chaos, serves as the perfect backdrop for this tale of vengeance. But as our protagonist delves deeper into the murky waters of his past, he finds that the line between right and wrong isn’t as clear as he thought.

Characters That Feel Real

One of the show’s strongest suits is its character development. Unlike many other dramas where characters can feel one-dimensional, “Istanbul Hesabi” presents a cast of individuals who are flawed, complex, and, most importantly, relatable.

The Protagonist

Our lead character is not your typical hero. He’s driven by anger and a sense of injustice, but his journey is also one of self-discovery. As viewers, we see his struggles, his moral dilemmas, and his growth. He’s a reflection of the idea that people can change, and sometimes, redemption is possible.

The Antagonist

On the other side, we have the antagonist. Far from being a mere villain, this character is given depth and motivation. We learn about his ambitions, his fears, and the circumstances that led him down a darker path. It’s this nuanced portrayal that makes him a worthy adversary and adds layers to the narrative.

Supporting Cast

The supporting characters, from the protagonist’s allies to his love interest, each have their own stories. They’re not just there to push the plot forward; they have their own goals, challenges, and growth. This attention to detail in character development enriches the story and makes the world of “Istanbul Hesabi” feel alive.

A Love Letter to Istanbul

Istanbul is more than just a setting in the show; it’s a character in its own right. The series does a remarkable job of capturing the essence of the city, from the bustling bazaars and majestic mosques to the quiet, hidden corners that only locals know about. It’s clear that the creators of “Istanbul Hesabi” have a deep love and respect for the city, and they use it to enhance the story in beautiful ways.

The Cultural Melting Pot

Istanbul’s unique position as a bridge between Europe and Asia makes it a melting pot of cultures, and this diversity is reflected in the show. Through the characters and their interactions, we get glimpses into the various cultures that make up the city’s fabric. This diversity adds richness to the narrative and allows for a broader exploration of themes and ideas.

The Historical and Modern Clash

Another aspect the show captures well is the clash between the old and the new. Istanbul is a city with a rich history, but it’s also rapidly modernizing. This tension between tradition and progress is mirrored in the characters’ lives and adds an interesting dynamic to the story.

The Themes

“Istanbul Hesabi” tackles a variety of themes, from the personal to the societal. Here are a few that stand out:

Revenge vs. Forgiveness

At its heart, the show explores the consequences of seeking revenge and the possibility of forgiveness. It poses tough questions about justice, morality, and the cycle of violence, encouraging viewers to think deeply about these issues.

Identity and Belonging

With its diverse cast and setting, the show delves into themes of identity and belonging. Characters grapple with questions of who they are and where they fit in a world that’s constantly changing. This theme resonates with anyone who’s ever felt out of place or struggled with their identity.

The Power of Love

Despite the dark themes, there’s also a strong undercurrent of love in “Istanbul Hesabi.” Romantic love, familial love, and the love between friends all play crucial roles. The show demonstrates the power of love to heal, to bring people together, and to change the course of our lives.

Why It Stands Out

In a landscape cluttered with cookie-cutter dramas, “Istanbul Hesabi” stands out for several reasons. Its commitment to character depth, its beautiful portrayal of Istanbul, and its willingness to tackle complex themes set it apart. But perhaps what makes it truly special is its ability to make viewers think and feel deeply. It’s not just entertainment; it’s a show that stays with you long after the credits roll.

Final Thoughts

“Istanbul Hesabi” is more than just a TV show; it’s a journey into the heart of Istanbul and the human soul. It challenges, entertains, and moves its viewers in equal measure. Whether you’re drawn to its intricate plot, its rich characters, or its beautiful setting, there’s something in “Istanbul Hesabi” for everyone. So, if you’re looking for a show that breaks the mold and offers something genuinely engaging, give “Istanbul Hesabi” a chance. It might just be the show you didn’t know you were missing.

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