The gripping anthology series Sa3to w Tareekho continues to capture audiences by reimagining the final hours of real-life crime cases in Egypt. Following the success of the first season, season two has upped the stakes with five episodes aired weekly instead of only two. Combining documentary storytelling with dramatisation, this innovative show provides a platform for emerging talents while featuring seasoned guest stars. Led by director Amr Salama, the series has gained acclaim for its bold narratives and unique format.

In this ranking, we dive into the episodes that not only captured audiences’ hearts but also left lasting impressions by shedding light on the dark realities faced by many.

1- Ragel El 3eila

This episode delves into myths and scams propagated by charlatans, warning viewers about falling prey to fraud. Child star Aser Ahmed Hamdi delivers a performance well beyond his years, while Khaled Kamal’s portrayal of a desperate father is haunting, to say the least. Rising talents Omnia Bahi and Lamis Mahmoud add depth to the ensemble, proving the success of the Casting programme in nurturing new actors.

2- Tofaha

In this harrowing tale of dark web horrors, the story escalates when Zaza, played by Islam Khaled, uncovers that his brother has fallen victim to a sadistic killer, portrayed by Suleiman Eid. Eid’s transformation from comedic roles to portraying a sociopathic murderer who films dismemberments for profit on the dark web was nothing short of revelatory. His chilling calmness contrasted with Islam’s raw emotional agony, delivering an unforgettable exploration of the darkest corners of human depravity.

3- Fanan Doctor

Mohamed Shaheen shines as a master thief impersonating a pilot to rob his neighbours. Shaheen’s charm and wit make his deception disturbingly delightful. His character’s audacious tactics and double life elevated this episode, making it one of the most entertaining. While not as emotionally weighty as others, the clever plot twists and his magnetic performance made it a thrilling ride.

4- Sa3et Sheitan

Domestic violence takes centre stage in this chilling episode. Ahmed Amin’s masterful performance as a guilt-ridden husband who hides his wife’s body for five years is unforgettable. The Alexandrian dialect used by the cast enhances the realism of the story, while Islam Khaled and Lamis Mahmoud steal scenes with their talent. However, the heavy reliance on narration in the final moments detracts slightly from the overall impact.

5- Talasos

Mayan El Sayed reenacts Naira Ashraf’s tragedy of being stalked and harassed by a classmate. The claustrophobic episode was set entirely on a bus, highlighting the dangers of electronic blackmail. The single-setting narrative adds to the episode’s intensity, creating a palpable sense of confinement that mirrors the victim’s emotional state.

6- Dabt w Ehdar

This episode tackles a harrowing case of harassment and rape involving a young man who blackmailed girls with compromising photos. The narrative parallels the infamous Ahmed Bassam Zaki case, which came to light in 2020 after the public outcry led to a social media movement resulting in his arrest. The episode reignited discussions about the necessity for stronger legal protections and parental responsibility in raising respectful children. Also, Hamza Diab’s transition from his usual “good guy” role to a villain was a breath of fresh air.

7- Block

The dangers of social media take a murderous turn in this tense episode. Nargis, played by Hanan Suleiman, descends into madness after her friend blocks her on Facebook, leading to a chilling confrontation with two burglars. Her portrayal of emotional instability, switching from polite to menacing within seconds, was a masterclass in psychological complexity.

8- Shehadet Ha2

In a powerful tale of heroism and tragedy, this episode recounts the story of Mahmoud El Banna, the martyr of chivalry, who lost his life defending a girl from harassment by Mohamed Rajeh. Heba Magdy delivers a moving portrayal, while the supporting cast includes standout performances by Islam Khaled and Saif Mohsen. Still, it was Donia Noman who redeemed herself as an actress with this episode after the backlash she got online during her time on Casting.

9- Tafteesh Mofage2

Inspired by the tragic story of Basant Khaled, a 17-year-old student who was driven to suicide, this episode portrays the devastating effects of cyberbullying and electronic blackmail. The heart-wrenching farewell note to her mother showcases the psychological toll of online harassment.

10- El Heza2 El Zahaby

Two child actors steal the show, literally and figuratively, in this tale involving a stolen shoe allegedly belonging to Mohamed Salah. Ahmed Dash plays a market seller who tricks Omar Sherif’s character into a high-stakes game. While the premise had potential, it felt more like a nostalgic reunion for Amr Salama’s protégés than a compelling crime narrative.

Sa3to w Tareekho Being a Game-Changer

Director Amr Salama’s dedication to nurturing fresh talent has made Sa3to w Tareekho more than a TV show; it’s a movement. From the Casting programme that scouted actors to the writing and directing teams led by rising stars, the series proves that Egypt’s future in storytelling is brighter than ever. His call for producers and directors to watch the series as an “audition tape” for discovering talent is a testament to the project’s larger artistic mission.

Aside from that, the show expertly intertwines crime, social commentary, and artistry with each episode, leaving viewers questioning the fragility of human choices and the societal forces behind real-life crimes. Each story is a call to action, urging viewers to reflect on their roles in building a more just and compassionate society. Season two is expected to continue to break boundaries, proving that the power of storytelling lies not just in the stories we tell but in why we tell them.