I found Baghdad Central to be quite disappointing. While the series tries to portray the struggles people face under occupation, it falls short in several areas. It’s a shame that none of the actors were Iraqi, and their attempts to speak Arabic in an Iraqi dialect felt flat. Their mannerisms and dialogue didn’t accurately represent Iraqi culture. Although they were Arab, there are significant differences among Iraqis, Palestinians, Lebanese, Moroccans, and Somalis. It’s crucial to remember that Somalis are not Arab!
One reviewer even questioned why the Iraqi characters were speaking English to one another, possibly to avoid using the Iraqi accent. Moreover, the fact that the series was filmed in Morocco added to the disconnect, as it has a completely different atmosphere and lifestyle compared to Baghdad. The story itself was weak, and the pacing felt both boring and unrealistic.
If the show had featured Iraqi actors who spoke in the Iraqi dialect and provided authentic views of the city, it could have taken the narrative to the next level. This approach would have added depth and authenticity, helping to compensate for the underwhelming plot. Overall, while they aimed to create a compelling narrative, they ultimately failed to depict the true struggles and experiences of Iraqis. There’s definitely room for improvement in future productions.