Syria's TV dramas test Ramadan series boundaries as industry rebuilds

Syrian TV productions are returning after 14 years of civil war, with Ramadan series exploring subjects that were once banned; some shows have faced censorship, social media criticism and production delays.

Syria's television industry is staging a visible return as Ramadan drama production resumes after years of conflict. Creators inside and outside the country are working together again and are making series that address subjects once off limits. Filmmakers are shooting in cities such as Aleppo, where war-damaged streets are being dressed as period sets. At the same time, productions are encountering new political sensitivities and practical delays. Key developments: - Ramadan TV dramas remain a major cultural event across the Arab world and Syrian series are widely anticipated. - Many exiled actors and directors have returned or are collaborating with those who stayed, and some new series tackle previously taboo topics such as torture and past massacres. - "Al-Souriyoun al-Aada," adapted from a novel banned under the Assad era, is being filmed in Aleppo but has seen production delays and social media criticism over casting choices. - Directors report having "some problems" with new censors, the National Drama Committee did not respond to inquiries, and at least one series originally planned for Ramadan will likely air afterward. - Exiled stars such as Jihad Abdo have returned and are taking roles both on screen and in cultural institutions while the industry seeks funding. Summary: Syrian Ramadan dramas are testing how recent history and political divisions can be portrayed on television and are contributing to public conversation about memory and reconciliation. The way new authorities handle censorship and the speed of production remain uncertain. Undetermined at this time.