TEHRAN is a timely, underrated espionage, spy thriller series. It is truly scary right now, how the artistic world is mirroring current events and history. This show provides a different perspective and demonstrates how deeply Iranians care about their country. It is heart-stopping action, and no one is safe from season to season. This is why it has caused such a buzz. It does not present the best side of Israel’s Mossad and the Red Army of Iran.
At the core of this series are Tamar(Niv Sultan) and Fazar (Shaun Toub). Their conflict and struggles to do the right thing for their country are palpable and vicious. Their characters are both conniving and ruthless. I would never believe a thing they say, but I can take it all in from both sides of unsolvable problems and situations.
Each season, the writers have created intense, life-threatening missions at every turn. Every character in this huge ensemble walks on eggshells for fear of saying or doing the wrong thing. It would be a terrible way to live or a way to make a living. It made me feel so lonely while I absorbed how imprisoned Iran is, as well as how explosive every second becomes. And there is no exit without violent, wasteful death and destruction. It is an exciting series, but not easy to sit back, relax, and enjoy.
The first season of TEHRAN was the best and spurred me to dive into season two immediately. It did not disappoint. It took the story content to areas I did not see coming. I was so hooked. The third season was good, but it seemed to have lost its way in the storytelling. The plotting was stretched beyond recognition, but the finale hit pay dirt. It was a magnificent way to end the stirring action and set up for season 4. I almost cheered out loud at one point. These gritty, killing machines can really get under your skin. M
TEHRAN builds on the events and people from each season. It is imperative to watch it from the start because sometimes the line blurs, and it is difficult to know which side to take. My only nit is with the people dubbing for the actors. It would be great if they could convey some genuine emotion in each line they speak. It does fake its top and some adjusting.
TEHRAN is one of the best series about the Middle East. This is rare to find. Take advantage of this Israeli-produced shows. Who knows what the future is for this region and how television can reflect the growing changes?
TEHRAN is streaming on Apple TV.
