The Syrian drama scene is bracing for the arrival of “Molana,” a new series poised to captivate audiences with its blend of crime, romance, and mystery. Starring the acclaimed actor Taim Hasan, the show marks another collaboration with director Samer Barqawi, and will air on MBC Drama, MBC Iraq, and MBC Shahid.
“Molana” centers around a pivotal event that dramatically alters the life of its protagonist, sending him down an unexpected path and revealing hidden depths within himself. He finds himself becoming a figure of reverence, a leader to whom the villagers turn for guidance. The series boasts an ensemble cast alongside Hasan, including Nour Ali, Nancy Khoury, Fares Al-Helou, the veteran Mona Wasef, Hima Ismail, Alaa Al-Zaabi, George Jabara, Jamal Ali, and Suleiman Rizq, among others.
Nour Ali, who plays the character of Shahla, described her role as a significant turning point in her career. “From the moment I read the synopsis and the first episodes, I felt it was a great opportunity to portray a character very different from what I’ve presented in recent years,” she said, according to Hawacom TV. She praised the opportunity to operate opposite Hasan and collaborate for the first time with the production company and Barqawi, factors that solidified her decision to join the project. Ali also highlighted her appreciation for returning to MBC, where she began her career and rose to prominence.
Shahla, Ali explained, is a character far removed from her own personality. “Shahla is a quiet, intelligent, and strong character, but she sometimes acts impulsively, guided by the principle that ‘the end justifies the means,’ especially when it comes to love or reclaiming rights,” she stated. Ali added that Shahla is a controlling figure placed in a unique situation where her emotions disrupt the balance of things, particularly in her relationship with Jaber, where she acts without considering the consequences.
Nancy Khoury expressed her enthusiasm for participating in “Molana,” emphasizing that her decision to take on the role was driven by a desire for renewal and development. “I’m always looking for something different, and this role combines everything I aspire to, especially with the presence of great artistic figures like Taim Hasan and the veteran Mona Wasef, under the direction of Samer Barqawi,” she said. Khoury noted that what drew her to the character was the ambiguity and mystery surrounding her, initially lacking knowledge of the woman’s background or story, only to discover her profound influence on the village’s narrative as the plot unfolds. She described the character as spontaneous and simple, following her heart until the very end, which explains her attraction to Jaber from the first moment.
Director Samer Barqawi spoke about the artistic vision and timeline of the series, noting that the continued success of his partnership with the cast and crew stems from their shared passion and ability to innovate annually. He explained that the events of “Molana” unfold during a sensitive period in Syrian history – the time preceding major transformations, when the country was experiencing a state of security and military anticipation. Barqawi added that the series aims to create a depiction of Syrian society through an isolated border village surrounded by military barracks, rejecting the notion that the work presents direct or coded messages, instead describing it as a human drama that leaves room for viewers to interpret freely. He affirmed that the chosen filming locations were selected to accurately reflect the spirit of that era.
The collaboration between Taim Hasan and Samer Barqawi continues with “Molana,” building on their previous success with the 2025 Ramadan hit, “Taht Sabe’ Ard” (Under the Seventh Land), as reported by Al-Awsat. “Molana” promises a compelling narrative that blends crime, romance, and mystery, offering a nuanced portrayal of Syrian society and the complexities of human relationships. Viewers can expect a story that explores themes of fate, self-discovery, and the unexpected turns life can take.
As production wraps and the premiere date approaches, anticipation is building for “Molana” and its exploration of a pivotal moment in Syrian history. The series is expected to spark conversation and resonate with audiences across the region. Further updates regarding the release date and promotional materials will be available on MBC Drama, MBC Iraq, and MBC Shahid platforms.
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