The Latin phrase “Veni, Vidi, Vici” is a clear description of what the series Rise of Empires: Ottoman is all about. As a Turkish historical docudrama, the series features actors whose nationality closely resembles that of the Ottomans. However, it combines action and narration to accurately tell the story of Mehmed II and how he conquered other nations and empires despite Constantinople’s city defenders – the Genoese mercenaries and its indestructible wall. This series offers an interesting plot, exciting battles, and a sweeping background that will take the audience back into history.

On January 24, 2020, Season 1 of the series Rise of Empires: Ottoman premiered on Netflix with six episodes. Written by Kelly McPherson and directed by Emre Sahin for Karga Seven Pictures and STX Television, Rise of Empires: Ottoman blends documentary and dramatic re-enactments in retelling the story of how Mehmed II and the Ottomans conquered the impenetrable city of Constantinople. The series revolves around the life of the Ottoman sultan who, as a child, had always dreamed of conquering Constantinople. Having studied about Alexander the Great and other young, fearless leaders, Mehmed II too hoped to accomplish greatness while young. With this goal in mind, he embarked on his journey.

The docudrama has two major goals in its narration: delivering the story of the Ottoman Empire with historical accuracy and clearly depicting the struggle of medieval war. The first season of the series provides a thorough account of the Ottomans’ struggle to win victory over their enemies and accomplish what other empires and leaders had failed to achieve. The story opens with the words of Osman, describing his dreams of Constantinople: “That city, placed at the junction of two seas and two continents, seemed like a diamond set between two sapphires and two emeralds, to form the most precious stone in a ring of universal empires.” This is followed by a bloody battle between two mighty empires – the Byzantine Empire and the Ottoman Empire. These empires not only struggle with each other on the surface but also have to deal with inner conflict.

Exploring the Themes

“For one empire to rise, another must fall.” This quote from the series hints at one of the story’s themes of conquest. As the series explores this theme, it features fearsome battles and illustrates the frightening qualities of the leaders Sultan Mehmed II and Constantine XI, who can be cruel at times and fierce when faced with their enemies.

One of the scenes in the series which clearly depicts this theme is when the young sultan stands at a distance looking over the walls of Constantinople before there is a sudden switch to battle gear as Mehmed II and the Ottomans battle with the Byzantines. The Byzantines were overwhelmed when the Ottomans used large cannons – a tactical weapon for assault resulting in psychological damage to the Byzantines. At their wits’ end, the Byzantines had to race against time to come up with a strategy to counteract the assault. Despite their injuries and losses, both empires have no choice but to face the reality of what is in front of them.

It is important to note that, even though Mehmed II and Constantine XI seem intrepid and highly intellectual, their flaws and weaknesses are not hidden from the audience. Instead, these are revealed so that the audience can relate to them easily. The creators of the series handpicked actors who could convincingly and realistically portray these historical leaders. Audiences are drawn to real people who, despite their strengths, show flaws but do not allow these to define them. Constantine XI made his last stand showing this characteristic.

The series teaches the viewers that no circumstance or enemy is undefeatable. It helps the audience realize that, no matter how difficult life gets, there is always a way out. The docudrama also reiterates the importance of having people who can be trusted, especially in times of difficulty. With characters like Mehmed II as a leader and a bringer of change, it is crucial for the viewers to see into the thought processes and internal life of Mehmed II because people can understand him more as an individual and come to know the motivations for his actions. This is also important in understanding the themes of the series.

Influencing the Audience

The accuracy of the descriptions and timeline in the series brings the characters and events to life. Viewers can vividly see for themselves what transpired during this time and witness the changes that ensued. Audiences around the globe can learn to truly appreciate history and even marvel at the fact that this series, along with its creators and cast, managed to depict history in an approachable manner.

As a historical documentary, the series supports the knowledge taught by professors at universities and even at high schools. It brings to light what audiences do not understand and can also attract those who otherwise lack interest in history. With Rise of Empires: Ottoman, there is a way for them to enjoy it.

Just as Sultan Mehmed II and the Ottomans came, saw, and conquered, the audience today can also persist in achieving their dreams even in the face of hardship and opposition. The impossible becomes possible as long as one does not give up. As a realistic docudrama filled with intrigue, deception, wartime strategies, and courageous characters, it is certainly admirable to see a series like this presented in a format that every viewer can easily watch and follow as the story unfolds.

Television Series Information

Genre: Docudrama

Creator: Kelly McPherson

Starring: Cem Yiğit Üzümoğlu, Tommaso Basili, Selim Bayraktar, Tuba Büyüküstün, Damla Sönmez, Osman Sonant

Running Time: 45 minutes

Streaming Platform: Netflix