Kanal D: ‘My mother’s tale’, a step ahead in Turkish dramas

Kanal D International presents the highly anticipated drama My Mother’s Tale (Annem Ankara) to the forefront during MIPCOM 2024. Set in the 1990s and based on a true story, the series explores the emotional and social struggles of Zuhal, a mother of three living in Ankara. Produced by BKM, the drama is focused on the harsh realities of motherhood and family dynamics, resonating deeply with audiences.

Starring Turkish actors Bergüzar Korel and Mehmet Günsür, My Mother’s Tale delves into themes of motherhood, sacrifice, and the resilience of women. In an interview with Prensario, Korel, who plays Zuhal, shared insights into her character, saying, ‘Zuhal is a woman who places her children at the center of her life, sacrificing her career and personal ambitions. Her struggle is deeply emotional, and portraying this real-life figure has been both challenging and rewarding’.

Zuhal navigates the complexities of her personal and professional life, including early retirement from her role as Chief of Staff for the Minister of Education and her struggle to survive after discovering her husband’s infidelities. Korel noted the challenge of portraying such a real and intense character, highlighting the emotional impact: ‘Zuhal’s reality has caused significant emotional struggles for me on set. It’s not just a story of a mother, but a story of survival and resilience’.

Mehmet Günsür, who plays Hasan, the father of the family, emphasized the authenticity of the series and the connection it seeks to create with the audience. ‘Hasan is trying to maintain a strong family bond despite the challenges of a strained marriage. The family dynamics, set against the backdrop of 1990s Ankara, are central to the story’.

The actor pointed out that portraying real-life characters brings unique challenges, requiring sensitivity and creativity to remain true to their essence while adding a cinematic touch. ‘Hasan is not just the typical father figure. He represents a man torn between societal expectations, personal struggles, and the love for his family. While he wants to be a good father and maintain family harmony, the series shows how his personal decisions create ripple effects for everyone around him’, explained. This internal conflict, set against the backdrop of 1990s Ankara, adds a layer of nostalgia and realism that the actor found challenging yet rewarding to portray.

Directed by Faruk Teber and written by Başak Angigün, My Mother’s Tale stands out for its deep emotional resonance, drawing on familiar struggles and challenges faced by mothers worldwide. Set to premiere in the 2024-2025 season on Kanal D in Turkey, the series is expected to appeal to both Turkish and international audiences. The 90s setting, combined with the themes of sacrifice, love, and survival, ensures a connection with viewers through a story that is both specific to its time and universal in its themes.