R-Bird-A Reviews

Sour Apples (2016)

Apples are like Life

[10/10 · 28 May 2024]

The metaphors used throughout the movie were striking and true. Some apples are sour- like life- can bring pleasure though also difficult. And some apples are sweet-but may get that way when "tamed" or grafted.

Cinematographically amazing, this showed the beauty of the country side, and the colorful clothing of a time long gone. It was just stunning to watch.

The storyline was interesting-both the historical accounts and the beautiful stories of love as well.

The acting was simple and clear. Not over acted nor silly. Sukru Ozyildiz was adorable, as usual, by the way.

I was pleasantly surprised at this lovely and moving production and would surely recommend.

Altin Kafes (2023)

Actually Caged-no joke

[4/10 · 19 May 2024]

The writers truly did encage the audience. Perhaps you are thinking that it is a good thing to be captured by a provocative script and great looking actors. Although these things are true here, the actually cage is that the writer quits and leaves the audience in a cage of "WHAT HAPPENED?" Prematurely cancelled, this show was just completely disappointing.

The first four episodes were intriguing, puzzling and complex, with many story lines that need closure.

I am glad I watched it because it was very good at the start but frustrated too, that it had no ending whatsoever. Relationships left in the middle, crimes unsolved, sinister plotlines with no ending, this was a waste of a great potential.

Askin Tarifi (2021)

Sweet and Sour

[6/10 · 12 May 2024]

You will find both sweet and fun moments along with sour episodes that make you cringe.

Sweet: The lead, Firat, it quite likeable and fun. The female lead, Naz is quite beautiful and lovely. The best friend was a cool character, as well as Naz's father. He was warm and sincere. This is a classic, sometimes very cliche Rom Com, but that's my favorite genre so I appreciate the sweet moments.

Sour: After a few episodes, it became long and drawn out, and it seems that the writers were just trying anything in their recipe box to make up a cake. I was upset that the plot went quite awry in the middle. Several characters were downright ridiculous and cartoonish. The side characters Gul and Atil were especially juvenile, but after a while, they seemed endearing and added comic relief. The villain must have done his job quite well, because he was very annoying. I do appreciate that the writers tried to draw more from his character, especially towards the end, to show a bit of depth.

Askin Tarafi was overall a fun show to watch, and if you are a fan of Rom Coms, you will enjoy the feast.

Bir Sevdadir (2024– )

Love One Another

[7/10 · 9 May 2024]

Not a traditional story, because the two main characters emotional connection was not what the plot revolved around. This story line posed such a moral dilemma for me until the end, where the resolution gave much more clarity. I was torn whether I should root for Yasil because her lies were deep and hurtful and seemed to be unforgivable. But at the same time, she was doing whatever she could to protect her children. At the end, I was satisfied with how this was resolved.

The side story of Menevse and Tufan also seemed impossible, but as before, the resolution was satisfactory.

I was impressed that under the whole story ran a theme to honor the lost brother by caring for needy people and standing up for what is right no matter the cost.

Overall, the story lines were interesting. But more than that, the actors performances shined. The unspoken hero here was clearly the father, Ishak Bicakci, who was very honorable and dryly humorous. He played the role to the hilt.

This series had interesting characters, but the real star was the message of doing what is right, whatever the cost.

Senden Önce (2024)

Disappointing

[4/10 · 5 May 2024]

Wherever Alp Navrus is, there is potential, but unfortunately, this time the potential was not realized.

The plot was weird and uncomfortable, and quickly became quite complicated. Even though I was considering NOT watching anymore, it seems the show made that decision for me. I really like the actors and was hoping for more, but the script didn't do them justice. And in the end, we will never really know if the show could be redeemed because it ended all too soon. If you are considering watching, go ahead, as the commitment is only 3 shows. It's just a big let down by every measure. Too bad.

Kül Masali (2024)

Mystery and Beauty

[9/10 · 3 May 2024]

Mysterious tale that spins and turns through various possibilities like a spiral staircase but you don't know which direction it will take you.

This was such a cinematographic masterpiece. It wove elements of patterns (the staircase, the violin handle), color (the contrast of white snow and elements of black and red), and textures (furnishing, wallpapers). Each and every scene was so cleverly and creatively painted. Just breathtaking.

The characters were well played- great acting by all members of the cast. They are each talented and convincing.

The storyline was intriguing, puzzling, and sometimes just creepy. The sprinkling of humor kept it fun and entertaining.

If there is one downside, I would say that there was a deficit of chemistry between the two lead characters. Yes, they are both gorgeous and individually extremely attractive. Their acting was very good, but there was a flavor missing. It just didn't come across as a believable passionate connection.

None the less, this is an amazing series, well worth watching. You will have to control yourself from biting your nails as the mystery unravels. It was an excellent series.

Sen Kiminle Dans Ediyorsun (2017)

Fun Silly Entertainment

[6/10 · 4 March 2024]

I watched this initially for Demet Ozdemir, not knowing what to expect. It was entertaining and comical, but juvenile. It was fun to see Binnur Kaya in this silly role. She played her part hysterically. The other actors were adequate. The main male lead was endearing. And Demet was sweet and funny. The dark humor, using suicide as a joke was tricky to find comical, but somehow, she played it off well.

As for the dancing, it was ridiculous and amateur, but acceptable in this format, as it isn't necessary for the dancers to be truly talented artists. It's just a silly comedy that will entertain for a rainy weekend.

Deliha (2014)

Unexpected Hilarity

[7/10 · 29 January 2024]

I really thought this was just going to be too dumb to withstand, but I was pleasantly surprised. Ok, it was really silly and ridiculous and goofy and exaggerated, but I have to say it was funny and cute too. And speaking of cute, WOW, that Baris Arduc is extremely cute! And I was really happy to see a few other familiar and beloved faces. I enjoyed the performances of Cihan Ercan and also Zeynep Camci. I love them from other projects and was so happy to see them again. Props to Gupsay Ozay. She portrayed her character to the hilt, and was completely ridiculous.

The only criticism I would have is that I am not a fan of dirty words, nor sexual connotations. That gross humor was not funny to me, but otherwise, I did enjoy this comedy.

Another Love (2023–2024)

A Totally Original and Crazy Series

[10/10 · 14 January 2024]

Crazy in every sense of the word, this series always had me on the edge of my seat. The storyline is quite unique and intriguing. But the real reason this show deserves all 10 stars is the acting- primarily of lead actor, Burak Deniz as Kenan/Dogan/Yusuf. I can't imagine how he kept it all straight, but he was thrilling, clever and creepy, yet endearing and charming. I have to defend Hande Ercel, also. I read a review that criticized her acting, but I have to disagree wholeheartedly. She passionately played her role. And what a beautiful woman also! I enjoyed the side roles of Murat and Yasemin. Murat was entertaining (though some parts of the character are really arrogant and annoying, he turned out to be kind of loveable). This was quite an intense show, from start to finish, and it will leave you scratching your head, thinking- wow! What did I just see!?

You've Made Your Bed, Now Lie in It (2023–2024)

Family Friendly Cute Story

[8/10 · 8 January 2024]

Although cliche and predictable, this dizi is cute and innocent- a show that has some giggles and sighs as we cruise through the ups and downs of Serkan and Alize's love story as well as the zany families they are from.

Pros and Cons: Cons- sometimes the story lines are replays of other dizis and quite predictable. It's a bit corny and exaggerated too, but that is part of the charm of a simple family story.

Pros- the biggest pro to me is that it is something you can feel completely comfortable watching with the whole family- from Grandma to toddler. It's very innocent and sweet.

I am satisfied with the conclusion and enjoyed the ride.

The Blue Exile (2023)

Blue Intrigue

[7/10 · 17 December 2023]

From start to finish, this show was filled with intrigue. Each character was performed well. I was especially fond of the character Murat (adorable smile) and the little boy, Arda, who was quite charming. Of course, the father, Salih was very admirable and a refreshingly honest and upstanding character-no flaws at all.

There were some weird moments in the story and some unanswered bits, but overall, it was satisfying until the last moment.

All that said, I am glad it ended when it did because sometimes you can get too much of a good thing. If it went any longer, I would likely be very tired of it.

The set was quite picturesque. This island would be a great vacation spot. The family's hotel would be my choice to visit!

Feride (2020)

Absurd...

[2/10 · 30 October 2023]

I can understand that a child under 10 may find this fun to watch, but really it was pointless. I tried to see the good in it...that Feride has such a good heart and sees the good in everyone. I enjoyed looking for the cameos of some actors I know from other shows ( like Ede Ece, Yigit Kirazci, Hatice Aslan, etc). Honestly, I was amazed at the really talented and established actors who were willing to participate in such a ridiculous movie. Maybe it was just for kicks, for the very reason- It is absolutely crazy. Anyway, I can only recommend this movie if you go in knowing it is probably the dumbest thing you will ever see but just need to watch something pointless.

Yaz Sarkisi (2023)

Sound of Summer Fun

[8/10 · 4 September 2023]

Such a fun summer show was fun to watch and sad to see go. The character, Gulbeyaz was delightful. Her fun and playful nature was a joy. I also enjoyed the characters, Fadime and Neriman as they brought the comedy to laugh out loud levels. Yaz's mom, Emine, was somewhat offensive with the threats of violence and threats to force Yaz to leave her life in Istanbul. The character Asli was very conniving and horrible in general, so her quick redemption seemed undeserved. Both men, Kemal and Murat were adequate, but not stellar. Maybe there would have been more had the show lasted a little longer. It seems that because of the quick ending, some story lines (like learning about Kemal's past) seemed to have just been left to the side. The character, Defne was endearing. She was the real friend that Yaz needed. Overall, this was a charming and enjoyable series. I wish there was more time for this Summer Song.

Vermem Seni Ellere (2023)

Beautiful Scenery, but not much more

[7/10 · 4 September 2023]

The original storyline was exciting and promising, but week after week, it just faltered.

Mehmet and Zelis were continually at odds with one another, even though they were obviously attracted to each other. Zelis's angry face became quite redundant-right up to the very end.

The writing was pretty corny and really just went around and around but went nowhere. There was occasional humorous moments, but not enough to save this kite from tanking. The characters were super cliche - though Kivanc was fairly endearing.

The best thing about this show is the beautiful scenery. The location was quite stunning, especially on top of the mountain. It was good to show the beauty of the Turkish mountains. For that reason alone, it may be worth the watch, but don't get your hopes up too much for the story. It was a bit of a disappointment- like a kite with no wind.

Kismet (2023)

Kismet or just Ill Fated?

[8/10 · 27 August 2023]

The best part of this dizi is the humorous, whimsical, sometimes nonsensical, ironic writing. Such a clever writer surely could come up with a more interesting conclusion. In fact, the mere definition of "kismet" states it's demise.

There were many humorous and ironic moments that made it worth watching but it leaves the watcher flat and bored and disappointed for the lost potential.

The characters Taner and Roza, ZemZem along with the leads, Melike and Dogan were endearing and deserved so much more. I thought Taner was hilarious, loveable-like a giant toddler. Roza really grew on me. I really cared about what happened to her and whether or not Taner would notice her. ZemZem, although a smaller role, deserved some happiness too. And as for Melike and Dogan, they definitely resisted each other too long. They were more than best friends for over 25 years. Isn't that long enough?

Overall, I enjoyed the jokes, but as for the storyline of the show, it was spinning, going nowhere, and crashed and burned.

Dönence (2023)

Many Faces of Love

[10/10 · 20 August 2023]

Any fan of Turkish dizis is familiar with watching beautiful protagonists falling in love. Donence, however shows the many faces of what love can be. Of course there is a gorgeous couple who are working out their feelings for each other as they bond over similar paths they walk. But examples of love doesn't end here. The pain and sacrifice of parents who love each other and their children unconditionally is presented beautifully. The mother is selflessly caring for her autistic child and the father does everything possible to protect his daughters, tries to understand them and love them in whatever form that must be. The great love of siblings which requires patience, understanding and humility is shown with Gece and Gulce as well as with Ozgur and Ruzgar. And perhaps there is another face of love that should be noted as well. Gulce's friend Alican is showing great empathy, patience and kindness with Gulce. This series has more than once brought me to tears, as I admire the passionate love that these characters portray to one another. It has opened my eyes and my heart more to what it means to love unconditionally, and to appreciate people who are a little different than others. Donence is truly a beautiful series with life lessons that touch the soul.

Ruhun Duymaz (2023)

What My Soul Hears is Passion, Adventure

[10/10 · 28 July 2023]

Right out of the gate, Burcu Ozberk and Sukru Ozyildiz delightfully stun with excitement, passion, intrigue and their wonderful comic flair. Their pairing is sparkling as the diamonds they seek.

Burcu is the queen of RomComs and doesn't fail to impress once again. She fearlessly takes on her male counterpart and shows an array of expressions which do the storytelling for her. Sukru is a wonderful match for Burcu; he is charming and comical with a smile that lights up the room.

Onur (Sukru) has been working to catch a diamond smuggler, Civan Koral. He uses Civan's sister as a cover to get into his house to steal incriminating papers. His plans are spoiled by another thief who was also trying to break into the same safe.

Ece (Burcu) finds herself entangled in this mission.

Love Likes Coincidences (2011)

Young Love Stays Youthful

[7/10 · 16 June 2023]

Very sweet story of coincidences and a love that was destined from their first breath to their last. The flashbacks were an effective tool to tell the history of this couple. Both main characters were very likeable, and make a sweet couple.

What I did not necessarily like was: 1)that the main girl cheated on her boyfriend. 2)I would have like to see more resolution between father and son. 3)And I am not a big fan of heartache, so the ending was hard to accept. Okay, I get that she saved his life and lives on in him....but I don't see that with happiness, but with grief. Now I'm sad and it's time for bed.... I wish there were a happier ending!

Organic Love Stories (2017)

What Did I Just See?

[3/10 · 13 June 2023]

Overall, to get to the point, it's kind of a waste of time.

Eight stories, mildly entertaining. Zero plot development, zero character development, so zero chance for audience buy in. Each story may have been a trailer for an upcoming series or movie, but standing on it's own each clip wasn't enough to enchant me in any way.

The reason I gave this production 3 stars is pretty simple: There are 3 stars who act in it that I like: #1 Gokhan Alkan (He was predictably gorgeous and believable in his little role) #2 Ceyda Kasabali (whatever she does is adorable) #3 Ozge Gurel...(although her role was just creepy and unpleasant-kind of lifeless).

If you are considering watching this production, do it for Gokhan. He is the best part. Good luck with the rest.

Golden Boy (2022– )

Teeter Totter Show

[10/10 · 9 June 2023]

It's kind of hard to review this show because I hate it and love it at the same time. I am having a hard time watching this terribly abusive father, and despise him. But at the same time, he is kind of humorous in an almost cartoonish way. (Like his constant use of the word Blasen...and when he enters a room and flicks his shoes (gross) and when he acts like a big baby when he is hurt...and like a lion when he defended Ferit against the Mobsters.) There were times when I was completely disgusted with Ferit and his selfish behavior and blatant infidelity, but for the most part, he is ridiculously charming and I have now forgiven him of his "unforgivable" sins and love him most of all. He is absolutely endearing. As for Seyran, I love her strength and dignity but was super tired of her stubbornness. Even Suna was the best sister, defended her little sister, gave valuable advice and was amazing in almost every way but is so frustrating when she recoils and is unable to defend herself. I understand that abused people feel trapped but as the watcher, I am so frustrated. The mom, Esme and the Aunt Halice are loveable and annoying too. Mom needs a spine and Aunt needs to reel in the spite. Pelin is completely obnoxious but completely sweet at the same time. Every character seems to be great and terrible at the same time. The grandfather showed moments when he seemed extremely wise and honorable, but then he also showed a very very cruel and selfish nature. Ferit's mother Gulgun seems really sweet for the majority of the show, but in the beginning she seemed to be disrespectful to her incoming daughter in law in an effort to appease (and control). The only consistent ones (up to this point) are Abedin and Asuman. Overall, it seems that the psychology of this show demonstrates that wounds affect people throughout their whole life, hurt people HURT people, and sometimes true love conquers everything else.

This series offers so many complicated characters and funny one liners that it keeps me watching. It is so bad....but so so so good. I can't wait for season 2!

Well....here we are in season 2, and it's just getting worse. It seems the writers want to say this: Hate and anger are noble. I am over the hateful and nonsensical actions...mainly manifested in Seyran. It's true that Ferid did her wrong initially, but he consistently tried to help her while juggling the impossible feat of pleasing and honoring his family. I may be alone, but I don't see him as the bad guy but a courageous and loving man who is just trying to make right with everyone. Has she done anything of merit for him? Anger and hate cannot be your motive for anything good. Hate cannot do anything good...only love can. The writers seem to not understand that "getting even" is just circularly harmful. This show is just getting deeper and deeper in the muck. It's losing any morsel of joy that it once had. I wish they ended with a joyful wedding of the past. But not even 24 hours go by with joy in this story. Uffffff....very frustrating.

Ates Kuslari (2023–2024)

Acting is ON FIRE

[10/10 · 9 June 2023]

I came to this show to see Burak and Ilayda (who I really adore) but was captured by a gripping and heart wrenching story. This show is like no other I have seen. The commentary on real life and the extreme differences of life for rich and poor is absolutely mind blowing. This show will pull at your heart and also your head. My empathy meter is off the chart for the characters and the people in life that are living that reality. It reminds us to be grateful to be born into a loving family and had the basic needs met at all times. Not every person is so blessed. But the irony of it all is that even with NOTHING, this family (the homeless children) have a great love and unbreakable bond. That is something no money can buy.

Every single actor deserves a standing ovation. They are so realistic and passionate and also humorous. They are absolutely the best. It would be shameful if I didn't mention the child actors. I have never seen such great acting from children. They won my heart and I would love to see them in more projects....but for now, I hope this series does not end. It's on Fire.

Ask Sana Benzer (2015)

Now I Understand the Low Ratings

[4/10 · 9 June 2023]

I was confused why this movie received such low ratings, but I now understand.

I really like Burak O and was looking forward to watching him. But (no fault of his) this show didn't deserve him. The writing was very boring, his character was likeable and charming but he has so much more potential and it was wasted on this movie.

What's the point anyway? He likes a girl, she likes him and then.....WHAT???? I won't spoil it other than to say: THAT WAS SOOOOOOOO stupid!

The only redeeming factor I can possibly think of is: While watching, it was kind of cool that the two actors really do love each other in real life. OK. That is the only good thing about it. That's all.

The Queen (2023)

She Really Is the Queen!

[8/10 · 9 June 2023]

Pros: The best thing about this series by far, is the actors. Each one was excellent in their roles. I am a huge fan of Ozberk and Alkan. I would watch them in anything....even if they did a commercial for foot powder, they would rock it! I also love Serkeci. She just has a million expressions without saying a word.

The storyline was pretty exciting, but it was frustrating as well. I love Gokhan so much and it pained me to see his mistakes. I was cringing in the beginning when they showed him being selfish and unfaithful. I just want to love him so I am glad that his character eventually seemed redeemed.

Cons: I am sorry that it was such a short lived series. I don't think it deserved such low ratings. It had more potential.

Although I didn't want it to end, it did provide a satisfying ending, considering the writers had to tie up all the loose ends in a 2 hour show. I hope I will soon see these actors in another project. They are adorable.

Noluyo Ya ¿: Düsük Bütçeli Talk Sov/Furkan Andiç (2023) Season Unknown, Episode Unknown

Love them

[10/10 · 25 February 2023]

This duo is so entertaining to watch and I also love Furkan Andic....so this is a no brainer. I loved it. Also, it's very necessary to help the people who are affected from the devastating earthquake, and I am glad they are bringing awareness to this good cause.

If for no other reason, watch to help spread the word through YouTube World and it will help.

As for this couple, Firat and Ceyda, I watch many of their shows and always enjoy their chemistry and energy. They seem so natural and authentic and absolutely fun to be around. I wish I could travel all over Turkey with them! The normally energetic couple, though, seem for the first time to be a little tired- which reflects clearly the pain we all share over the circumstances.

Kizim ve Ben (2018)

Daughter and Father Beauty

[8/10 · 15 February 2023]

Really great story. The actors did a great job, and the little girl is adorable. I wish there were more happy moments because they were so charming. I love how this working father stepped up to the plate and became an outstanding dad for his girl regardless of his busy career. I also appreciate his friends who definitely were an integral part of raising this little girl. Wonderful Friendship/Admirable Brother and Sisterhood/Precious Surrogate parents-this was a great couple.

The only warning I will give the viewer is to prepare plenty of tissues, as you will need them! No question about it!!!