In the vast universe of Turkish television, where compelling narratives and intricate characters converge, 'Babil,' known as 'The Choice' in English, emerges as a riveting series that has left an indelible mark on audiences both within Turkey and beyond. With its thought-provoking storyline, complex characters, and exploration of themes such as fate, ambition, and the human spirit, 'Babil' stands as a captivating exemplar of the power of storytelling.
Irfan (Halit Ergenc) is a principled economics professor, committed to being a devoted spouse, father, educator, and responsible citizen. However, an unexpected twist upends his modest existence.
Just as Irfan is on the cusp of a promotion to dean, false accusations by a colleague result in his expulsion from the faculty. After two decades of academic dedication, he's left unemployed. Despite his attempts to clear his name in court, Irfan's innocence remains unproven, leading to the freezing of his finances until exoneration.
Simultaneously, Irfan's 7-year-old son faces a critical brain tumor diagnosis necessitating immediate surgery. Irfan and his wife Eda (Nur Fettahoglu) now confront another formidable hurdle – raising funds swiftly for their son's crucial operation.
To secure the necessary funds, Irfan tirelessly applies for various jobs. Despite an impressive academic background – including degrees from renowned institutions – his ongoing legal battle hinders his employment prospects. Struggling to find assistance from friends or loans, Irfan's desperation intensifies. Providentially, an old friend, the crafty Egemen (Ozan Guven), offers a solution. Egemen suggests approaching his boss Suleyman (Mesut Akusta), a wealthy entrepreneur with a checkered past as a moneylender.
Irfan becomes embroiled in an unforeseen, shadowy ordeal. Agreeing to Suleyman's loan, Irfan grapples with his enigmatic personality. Irfan and Egemen devise a scheme to outsmart Suleyman, intending to use the funds for the surgery and their own escape. Yet, their plan faces repeated challenges.
Within this tumultuous journey, Irfan crosses paths with his former flame Ilay (Birce Akalay), now Suleyman's paramour. He also encounters Ayse (Asli Enver), an idealistic literature graduate struggling to secure employment.
'Babil' (The Choice) weaves a narrative around Irfan's noble pursuit to fund his son's surgery. Amidst this dark escapade, questions arise: Will Irfan gather sufficient funds? Can he outwit the dangerous Suleyman with Egemen's help? Might Ayse emerge as Irfan's savior? Will Irfan and Ilay rekindle their past romance or embark on a new chapter? The series delves into themes of morality, ambition, and the unexpected turns life may take.
'Babil' delves into the ethical dilemmas faced by its characters, exploring the intricate web of choices they must navigate. As the characters confront moral crossroads, the series invites viewers to contemplate the complexities of decision-making and the profound impact of individual actions on society at large.
Halit Ergenc as Irfan Tuna Saygun
Ozan Guven as Egemen Kivilcim
Asli Enver as Ayse Karaali / Nihal
Birce Akalay as Ilay Yucedag
Nur Fettahoglu as Eda Saygun
Mesut Akusta as Suleyman Yavuncu
Veda Yurtsever as Kudret Yavuncu
Selahattin Pasali as Hakan Yavuncu