Fauda

The Israelis have done a fantastic job. Unlike Americans, they didn’t need to be overly patriotic. They let those tank trucks full of pathos get lost in the desert and filmed a series full of elaborate action, escalating suspense and perfect atmosphere. It instantly drew me into the action and didn’t let go. What really surprised me was that they did not necessarily put themselves into the role of the righteous ones. The series lacked any strictly positive characters, everyone had something on their conscience, and if someone is not yet clear why the two sides of the conflict are unable to reach a compromise, the series might give them some valuable insight. I really enjoyed it. (29.03.2019)

Season 1 greatly surprised me. The Middle East without the (otherwise ever-present) Americans looked much more natural, and the individual characters were very well-written. The episode running time was unusually short, which helped the creators keep up a great pace because there was no need to stuff the story with annoying filler.  I enjoyed a great atmosphere from the opening episode to the finale. (16.11.2018)

Originally, I wanted to rate it with four stars, but in the end, I added a fifth star because the Israelis didn't try to portray themselves as the only righteous ones, as Americans often try to convince us. The first episode had a quality atmosphere, excellent action, well-developed tension, and above all, a brisk pace. (15.11.2018)

The second visit to the increasingly closer East definitely entertained me. True, there was significantly less action compared to the previous installment, but I still had something to watch because I enjoy this theme in movies and series, as long as it is well-made, which the creators of Fauda are succeeding at so far. (15.11.2018)

I would gladly rewatch the third episode, but the creators disappointed me with their overused way of trying to increase tension - the pursuit of the ambulance with occasional shots of the suffering Abú Ahmad could work twenty years ago, but now it is downright embarrassing. Fortunately, everything was saved by a quality ending. (15.11.2018)

Unless the creators suddenly mess things up, this is shaping up to be an excellent series. The tension ramped up again, the action didn't disappoint, and the atmosphere has been consistently strong since the first episode. I'm thoroughly satisfied. (15.11.2018)

After two action-packed episodes, the pace slowed down a bit, allowing for a closer look at Doron's family dynamics. The episode had a more subdued tone, leading up to an intense, action-filled ending. I'm really pleased with what I've seen so far and can't wait for the next episode. (15.11.2018)

Packed with action and tension from start to finish. If the previous episode had a slower pace, this one definitely picked it up and kept things moving. I really enjoy how nothing is black and white here; all the characters exist in shades of gray, and that’s what makes it so compelling. (15.11.2018)

The creators packed the episode with a gripping storyline, solid action, and plenty of tension, making it work beautifully. I take a neutral stance in the Israel-Arab conflict, so I don’t root for either side. Instead, I watch with objective interest to see how low each side will go. So far, they haven’t found a limit, just as I expected. (16.11.2018)

Last time, it was all about action, but this episode delivered a hefty dose of behind-the-scenes maneuvering that kept me thoroughly entertained. The creators are consistently maintaining an extremely gripping atmosphere. (16.11.2018)

Although the storyline was similar to the previous episode, I still missed that "something" that I would even add a fifth piece for. Moreover, Abu Ahmad's killer somewhat disappointed me, as he demonstrated too low psychological resilience for my taste. With fighters like that, Hezbollah would have had to pack up a long time ago... (16.11.2018)

This episode didn't quite hit the mark for me. The story lacked the pace I was expecting, making it the slowest episode of the season so far. (16.11.2018)

The episode focused more on family dynamics with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict serving as a strong backdrop. Fauda isn't known for its humor, so the scene with the bear at the bus stop was a welcome touch. (16.11.2018)

I enjoyed the episode, but I couldn't shake the feeling of being slightly let down. I was expecting a more action-packed conclusion, but instead, the focus shifted to set up an open-ended finale, inviting viewers to come back for the next season. (16.11.2018)

The creators really surprised me. After a very well-managed first season, I was expecting a certain drop in quality, but the opposite was true. The second season came with a well-written script, the story had great atmosphere, brought plenty of suspense and excellent action scenes. The open ending was a clear invitation to watch the third season, so I was disappointed to find out how things are. Never mind, maybe it was for the best. (29.03.2019)

A gripping kick-off to the second season. I was hooked into the storyline right from the start. They creators have nailed that signature atmosphere we loved from the first season, blending it seamlessly with just the right amount of tension and expertly executed action. (27.03.2019)

Once again, I've got to hand it to the creators for delivering another solid episode. The only issue I had with it was a minor dip in pace. This time around, it leaned more into the dialogue, with action taking a bit of a backseat. Still, I wasn't bored for a second. Plus, there were some seriously intense moments – that Israeli commando execution scene was pretty brutal. (27.03.2019)

This episode didn't quite hit the same high notes as the first one. Nonetheless, it was still a solid watch, and I found myself thoroughly enjoying it, even if the action was a tad lacking. This series continues to impress me, and it'll probably take some serious missteps from the writers to change that. (27.03.2019)

This episode clearly set the stage for "big things" to come. Once again, kudos to the creators for not giving us any typical good guys; everyone here is flawed in their own way, and that's what makes it so intriguing. And that children's song for the anniversary of Abu Ahmad's death? Definitely an unexpected touch... (27.03.2019)

The creators did a fantastic job of thickening the atmosphere and ramping up the tension. There was plenty of action, and they even found time to lighten things up with the relationship between Steve and Anat. (28.03.2019)