Last-Minute Entry: “Ala Ghafla” Joins Ramadan TV Race
The new Moroccan drama series “Ala Ghafla” (Unexpectedly) is making a surprise entry into this year’s Ramadan television lineup. Initially excluded from the official Ramadan programming, the show will now air two episodes per week on Channel One, starting March 19th. This last-minute addition adds another layer of excitement to the already competitive Ramadan TV season, a period known for its surge in viewership and a flurry of new series releases across the Arab world. This highly anticipated time of year, coinciding with the holy month of Ramadan, sees families gathering after Iftar (the breaking of the fast) to enjoy new television programs.
Directed by Hicham El Jebbari and produced by Alyane Productions for Channel One, “Ala Ghafla” boasts a stellar cast of Moroccan talent. The series features Fatima-Zahra Benaisser, Fatima-Zahra El Jawhari, Salwa Zarhane, Kamal Kadimi, Rabie El Kati, Ismail Abou El Kanater, Nafissa Benshehiba, and marks the return of Mourad El Zaoui to Moroccan screens after a long hiatus. This ensemble cast promises a captivating performance, drawing in viewers with their combined experience and charisma.
“Ala Ghafla” blends social drama with comedic elements, a strategy the production team hopes will resonate with audiences and ensure its success amidst the crowded Ramadan TV landscape. This blend of genres aims to offer a balanced viewing experience, appealing to a wider audience and providing both thought-provoking drama and lighthearted entertainment. The popularity of dramedies continues to rise, as seen with international successes like “Ted Lasso” demonstrating the power of combining humor and emotional depth.
El Jebbari’s previous directorial venture, the series “Bayn El Ksour” (Between Palaces), aired during last year’s Ramadan season on MBC 5 and the Shahid streaming platform. The show enjoyed significant success, garnering impressive viewership numbers. This track record of success creates high expectations for “Ala Ghafla,” with audiences eager to see El Jebbari’s latest creation. While viewing figures for Ramadan programming are not always publicly available, the anecdotal evidence and social media buzz surrounding “Bayn El Ksour” suggest a strong positive reception. This prior success, combined with the intriguing premise and talented cast of ”Ala Ghafla,” positions the new series for a potentially strong performance during this year’s Ramadan season. The increasing availability of streaming options and on-demand viewing may also influence how audiences engage with the show, offering flexibility beyond traditional broadcast schedules.
