Asaf is not the typical Turkish show about a doomed romance — far from it. The story follows the dramatic transformation of an ordinary man into a spiral of danger and deceit, blending tension, emotion, and a sharp social commentary on contemporary life.
Originally a niche title, Asaf quickly captured the hearts of fans of Turkish dramas and lovers of sophisticated thrillers alike. Here’s everything you need to know about the show — from plot and cast to reviews and release date. You’ll find the trailer at the end of the article.
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Asaf – all the key details
- Original Title: Asaf
- Genre: Thriller, Drama
- Country of Production: Turkey
- Original Language: Turkish
- Year of Production: 2024
- Duration: 1 season, 8 episodes
- Cast: Cihangir Ceyhan, Burcin Terzioglu, Uygar Ozcelik, Saadet Aksoy, Sema Kecik
- Director: Ozgur Onurme
What Asaf is about
Asaf tells the story of an Uber driver whose ordinary life is shattered by a traumatic event. Separated from his family, Asaf tries to get by with his work when an accident drags him into a crime that will change everything. Manipulated by ruthless figures, he finds himself trapped in a world of lies and violence, struggling to survive and reclaim control of his life. The series delves deep into the darker sides of society and human morality, offering a gripping and thought-provoking narrative.
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The Cast
Asaf is an Idea Film production for Netflix, created, co-written (with Ahmet Vatan), and directed by Ozgur Onurme, who also authored the series Fatma (2021). The direction is credited in collaboration with Deni Jordan, and the first season introduces a prominent cast from the Turkish television scene.
Cihangir Ceyhan plays Asaf, the absolute protagonist of the show: an ordinary man overwhelmed by events that push him down a path of revenge and transformation. Ceyhan, known for roles in Cukur and Aile, confirms his presence in contemporary drama. Burcin Terzioglu portrays Sema, a central and complex figure in the protagonist’s fate. The actress, acclaimed for performances in hit shows like Poyraz Karayel and Hakan: Muhafiz (The Protector), brings a strong dramatic imprint to the series. Uygar Özçelik is Harun, an enigmatic character deeply tied to Asaf’s story. The actor has appeared in various Turkish TV productions, known for intense and psychologically layered roles. Below is the full cast with their respective characters.
- Cihangir Ceyhan is Asaf
- Burcin Terzioglu is Sema
- Uygar Ozcelik is Harun
- Saadet Aksoy is Ruya
- Sema Kecik is Nermin
- Tayanc Ayaydin is Aziz
- Serra Ariturk is Meltem
- Ahmet Rifat Sungar is Cuneyt
- Cagdas Onur Ozturk is Murat
- Riza Kocaoglu is Nasuh
Behind the scenes of Asaf
Asaf is part of the growing wave of Turkish shows conquering Netflix, following the success of titles like The Protector and Another Self. The plot explores themes of isolation, social inequalities, and the far-reaching consequences of bad decisions, making the story both relevant and provocative. Filming took place in some of Turkey’s most vibrant cities, providing a powerful visual setting.
Is Asaf based on a true story?
Asaf is a work of fiction. While it addresses realistic social issues such as isolation, inequality, and the consequences of poor decisions, the story and characters are entirely imagined.
Our review
The series combines psychological tension, a tight pace, and elegant direction that highlights the contrasts of Istanbul: modern and dark, bright and corrupt. Without excess but with great intensity, Asaf builds a story of guilt, anger, and redemption, keeping the audience on edge until the last episode.
The protagonist, an ordinary man overwhelmed by injustice, gradually transforms into a cold and determined vigilante, leaving viewers to ponder just how far human desperation can go. Asaf is a gripping thriller that showcases the power of modern Turkish cinema on Netflix: concise, emotional, and surprisingly universal in its appeal.
When to watch Asaf on Netflix
Asaf is available on Netflix starting November 28, 2024 ► WATCH ON NETFLIX
The trailer
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