50M2

50M2 is a captivating Turkish TV series from Netflix that was first aired in 2021. This exciting thriller combines elements of drama, mystery, crime, and humor, creating a distinct appeal for viewers who enjoy intricate storylines. The series is named after the small tailor shop in which the protagonist hides, a critical setting that symbolizes a haven but also a seemingly insurmountable boundary.

Exploring themes of identity, survival, and redemption, 50M2 features the dynamic character Gölge, known in English as 'Shadow'. Played skillfully by Engin Öztürk, Gölge is a complex character who needs to go on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Engin Ozturk skilfully captures the internal struggle of this interesting leading character.

Gölge is a hitman who serves Serdar, a crime boss, who's also the father figure in his life. Gölge is a master of his craft, known for becoming a 'shadow' of his victims before he eliminates them - a trait which also gives him his name. However, living in the shadowy underworld of crime, Gölge has forgotten his real name and his past, and his constant search for his true identity serves as a major subplot that drives the show.

In a sudden turn of events, Gölge betrays his boss Serdar after finding a hidden photograph that sparks curiosity about his past. As a result, trying to escape from Serdar's retaliation, he seeks sanctuary in a petite 50-square-metre tailor shop in a disadvantaged, unknown neighborhood of Istanbul, owned by an old man named Yakup. However, the shelter turns out to be a place of new beginnings when fate takes an unexpected turn, and Gölge finds himself caught-up in a complicated situation with the locals of his temporary refuge.

Each episode in 50M2 brings our protagonist one step closer to discovering his real identity, knitted well with subplots of neighborhood turmoils, interpersonal relationships, love, and hidden secrets. Gölge must navigate through the intricacies of a regular lifestyle, adjusting with the small-town folks, and hiding his true professional identity. The show brings alive empathetic characters with interesting backstories that are commonplace in real life, which perfectly contrasts Gölge's world of unreality, crime, and chaos.

Throughout the storytelling process, the creators of 50M2 creatively use the tailor shop metaphor: If society represents the cloth, then Gölge is a tailor trying to shape his own existence. The tailor motif interestingly benchmarks the process of transformation Gölge undergoes and how he attempts to redraw the hemlines of his existence. The emphasis on human connection, personal reinvention, mystery, and the chase of past truths are a recurrent theme throughout the show.

Reminiscent of popular TV Dramas like Breaking Bad and Dexter, 50M2 leverages the compelling character transformation of Gölge. He navigates vulnerability and tenacity, invoking a need for acceptance, justice, and truth through compelling visual storytelling set against the vibrant, cultural backdrop of Istanbul.

50M2 is designed with cinematic attention to detail. This Netflix original from Turkey boasts aesthetic visual appeal with a color palette that varies per the character’s psychology and the time of day, thereby enhancing the viewing experience and deepening understanding of the narrative. Also, the aesthetics are harmoniously paired with the action-packed sequences, keeping the audiences at the edge of their seats.

Backed by a cast of exceptional performers, 50M2 delivers on every front—acting, storytelling, and production, the series treats viewers to a compelling narrative steeped in mystery and richly developed characters. With memorable lines and a sense of humor that makes the series thoroughly enjoyable, 50M2 is a must-watch for fans of international intrigue, thrillers, and action dramas.

50M2 often questions the notion of identities and shadows that each individual carries within themselves. The tension lies in the question: will Gölge be able to adapt to this radical change in environment, stitch a new identity, and at the same time, fend off his past that is chasing him? Each episode keeps the viewers hooked, awaiting the next piece of the puzzle and the unraveling of Gölge's mysterious past. The show takes viewers on a rollercoaster ride through the narrow alleyways of Istanbul, as Gölge steps out of the world of shadowy crime and steps into a world of normal human interactions.