Caliphate

From the popular streaming giant, Netflix, comes the gripping Swedish crime drama series from 2020, titled Caliphate. This engrossing show takes a meticulous look into the uncomfortable realities of the worldwide terror network, while simultaneously exploring other significant themes. It provides a stark illustration of how near or far we all are from the brink that defines our humanity. It is a nerve-wracking, and yet an important watch, due to the show's profound bravery in examining the corrosive power of extremism.

Caliphate focusses on several female protagonists from vastly different backgrounds who all find their lives entangled in a dangerous web of radicalism, fear, and betrayal. These stories unfold in parallel narratives that continually merge and diverge, propelling the viewers on a suspense-filled journey. True to the Scandinavian noir tradition, the series is depicted beautifully with elements of gritty realism, shrouded in a signature grey-blue hue, that reflect the menacing undertones of the plot.

The story begins with a Sapere Aude-carrying intelligence agent Fatima, who operates out of the Swedish Security Service, colloquially known as Säpo. Fatima is introduced to us as an intelligent, strong, and dedicated counter-terrorism officer, whose life's mission is to protect her country from the growing threat of radical extremism. After a distressing encounter with a former asset during a mission in Jordan, she returns to Sweden to find her worst fears realized - the metastasizing reach of ISIS in her home country. Fatima becomes emotionally drained in her constant struggle against the encroaching powers of dark fanaticism, only interspersed by moments of respite with her husband and children, demonstrating the very human factor behind our defenders.

Parallel to Fatima's storyline is Pervin, a Swedish woman residing in Raqqa, Syria, with her husband and infant daughter. Pervin's disillusionment with her circumstances and the harsh reality of life under ISIS drive her to make desperate attempts to escape and return to Sweden. Her character brings to light the desperation and harsh consequences faced by those who fall prey to the lures of false propaganda.

In Sweden, we also follow the lives of Sulle and Kerima, two teenage sisters living in a Stockholm suburb, whose innocent curiosities about purpose, faith and identity are exploited, leading them down a dangerous path of radicalization. Their narrative encapsulates the reality of how young minds can be swayed by extremist ideologies, proving that terrorism knows no boundaries.

The character arcs intersect and create moments of high suspense, taking the viewers through a whirlwind of emotions. Caliphate is not only a sophisticated thriller but also an honest portrayal of a modern socio-political crisis. Each character's story unravels in authentic, thought-provoking manner, demonstrating resilience in the face of fear and existential uncertainty.

The performances are worth noting; the cast gives an incredibly persuasive and harrowing portrayal, contributing to the overall intensity and the raw realism of the show. From the central figure of Fatima, played brilliantly by Aliette Opheim, to Lisha's heartrending and nuanced performance by Amanda Sohrabi and Gizem Erdogan's compelling portrayal of Pervin, the characters of Caliphate come alive on screen with their plausible complications, making the series more relatable to the audience.

Its creator, Wilhelm Behrman, and director, Goran Kapetanovic, have seamlessly brought the multiple plotlines to life, making for a tense and unsettling narrative that does a deep dive into the realm of violent extremism.

Despite the thriller plotline, the nuances of empathy, forgiveness, and loss are also not lost. It makes for a show filled with personal stakes and unfolds the human aspect of a global crisis in intimate details.

Caliphate does not claim to offer definitive answers about extremism or radicalization. Instead, it chooses to challenge the audience, stirring them into discussions and reflections on the pressing realities of today's world. It raises awareness about the global implications of terrorism and its impact at an individual level.

In its essence, Caliphate is a poignant and chilling reminder of how fragile our social fabric can be under the menace of extremist ideologies.

Please note, Caliphate contains explicit content, scenes of violence and distressing themes and therefore, viewer caution is advised. However, for those seeking a gripping and thought-provoking thriller from contemporary and global concern, steeped in tension and realism, Caliphate could prove to be a fiercely riveting watch.