Kalifat

Unlike various lunatics (and there are more than a few), the creators of the series did not try to claim that a terrorist is a charming tan fellow, whose relation to faith allows him to empathize with other people’s needs and do many selfless good deeds. The Swedes offer a raw, unsugarcoated look at what awaits Europe if people don’t come to their senses. It had atmosphere, it was entertaining and even enlightening. I hope that the creators will survive any potential Islamist criticism. (27.06.2020)

I docked one star mainly due to the initial chaotic confusion (that monologue in Swedish at the start really threw me off). Thankfully, things smoothed out as the episode progressed, but boy, was it a bumpy ride at the beginning. This wasn't quite what I expected from Swedish creators. 4*+ (25.06.2020)

I'm giving this one a solid five stars. I was completely immersed in the plot and characters, and the episode was top-notch in every way. Oddly enough, I'm finding the brainwashing in Sweden more intriguing than the action in Syria at the moment. But then again, maybe it's less about brainwashing and more about filling an empty space with some kind of idea. (26.06.2020)

Well, just as I was getting into the groove of the Swedish scenes, along comes the Pervin episode, and suddenly, I'm finding the action in Syria a lot more captivating. But I've got to hand it to the creators, the advertising for the Islamic State was almost perfect. (26.06.2020)

It's clear that this series isn't about action-packed scenes. And you know what? I'm perfectly fine with that. In fact, I'm more than satisfied. It's refreshing to see European creators boldly naming things for what they are and giving us a stark look at the reality. (26.06.2020)

Unprecedented indeed. With its focus on terrorists and only two deaths so far, this Swedish series takes a fresh approach to its subject matter. (26.06.2020)

The Swedes continue to impress, and it feels like the episodes are getting better. However, I find myself unable to fully root for any individual character. (27.06.2020)

Up until now, I've been singing praises for each episode, but this time, I docked a star. The storyline with Fatima felt a bit muddled, and logic seemed to take a nap here and there. However, Lisha's excursion at the beginning was a highlight that kept me engaged. Despite its flaws, I still came away feeling satisfied in the end. (27.06.2020)

I was anxious about how this series would wrap up, but it turns out my worries were completely unfounded. The Swedes reminded me that they're not playing by American rules — no care for the conventional happy endings, applause from the masses, or awards for the slickest agent. Instead, they delivered a resolution that perfectly matched the series' overall mood and tone. (27.06.2020)