I want to take a moment to talk to you about a truly spectacular show that was just released on Hulu. It’s called Baghdad Central and is a limited six-episode series that is an absolute must-watch.
Slight Spoilers
Essentially, Baghdad Central is about a father who does whatever he can to find his missing daughter. It is so much more than that, though. Taking place after the United States occupied Iraq in wake of the downfall of Saddam Hussein, one man has lost everything. Waleed Zuaiter plays Muhsin Kadr al-Khafaji, a former policeman who now cares for his ill youngest daughter. On top of that, his oldest daughter is missing. No matter what happens throughout the season, Muhsin’s one goal is to find his daughter Sawsan.
Baghdad Central is an honest look at how the lives of the Iraqi people were affected by the events of America’s presence in Iraq. Instead of presenting Middle Eastern people as terrorists, as most shows and movies do; this series showcased the real lives of the Iraqi people. It also had a universal theme that anyone could relate to no matter what nationality they are and that is a father’s love for his daughter.
Muhsin Was the Best Lead in a Show That I’ve Seen in a While
Zuaiter as Muhsin is honestly badass. His goal and perseverance never wavered. The worst thing other people can do is underestimate him and they underestimate him a lot. Especially Bertie Carvel as Frank Temple. From the very beginning, Temple and Muhsin’s “relationship” is an uneasy one. Of course, working for Temple is simply a means to an end for Muhsin, but he needs to keep his eye on the other man, because Temple is not above fighting dirty. Muhsin not only has the task of finding his daughter, but dealing with a changing Iraq and foreigners who look down on him even though they’re in his country.
Every episode captured me. I was completely submerged in Muhsin’s story and I don’t think there was anyone better than Zuaiter for this role. Simply seeing him every episode was so incredibly great, but the series as a whole was fantastic. It was smart, thrilling, and always kept me on my toes. It strayed away from stereotypes and it was a show that did rely on a “savior complex”; it put everything in the Iraqi hands. Because they’re the ones most effected – this is their country, both during America’s occupation and when the soldiers leave.
Rating: 4.75/5
The only thing that I wasn’t the biggest fan of was Corey Stoll’s character. Not because it was a bad character, but because the character really didn’t have any big significance in the series. As a fan of Stoll, I felt that the opportunity was honestly wasted, but the show was not about Stoll as Captain Parodi. It was all about Muhsin and his family. In the end, the show was wrapped up in a neat little bow and while I would love to see more, I also think there shouldn’t be a second season. The show told its story and rather than having a second season, maybe producers and writers will be brave enough to make more stories like this for future projects.
Have you seen Baghdad Central? What did you think of this drama series?
A girl with too many fandoms to count.
