Şahsiyet Review: A Powerful Turkish Drama of Memory and Guilt


Şahsiyet (2018)

8.5/10 — Şahsiyet (2018)

Pros

  • Haluk Bilginer's award-winning performance
  • Moody direction
  • Thought-provoking themes

Cons

  • Slow and heavy
  • Some far-fetched twists

Agâh Beyoğlu, played by Haluk Bilginer, is a former court clerk diagnosed with Alzheimer’s who decides to make amends for his past by killing those he considers guilty. The series was made by Ay Yapım for Puhu TV and is known in some places as ‘A Good Man’.

What works

Bilginer won an International Emmy for his performance, and it’s a masterclass in subtle, moving acting. The series is moody and well directed, and it raises questions about justice, memory and morality.

Where it falters

It’s slow, and the sombre tone is heavy. Some plot turns are far-fetched.

Verdict

A serious, powerful drama led by a remarkable actor.