Watch 4 Blocks

4 Blocks is a German drama television series that premiered in May 2017 and ended in July 2019, spanning three seasons. The show was created by Hanno Hackfort, Bob Konrad, and Richard Kropf and is directed by Marvin Kren. It stars Kida Khodr Ramadan and Frederick Lau, among others.

The series is set in the heart of Berlin's thriving Arab community in the neighborhood of Neukölln. The story revolves around a family of Lebanese immigrants, the Hamadys, who have established themselves as the leading crime family in the area through their involvement in drug trafficking, money laundering, and extortion. The head of the family is Ali "Toni" Hamady (Kida Khodr Ramadan), who has decided to leave behind his criminal life and concentrate on his legitimate businesses. However, he is drawn back into the world of crime when an old friend arrives in Berlin with a dangerous proposition.

Toni's world quickly begins to unravel as he tries to balance his old life and his ambitions to leave the business behind. Add in his family's expectations, rival gangs, and the Berlin police department working to bring the Hamady's down, and the show becomes a tense, action-packed, and thrilling ride for the audience.

Throughout the series, we see the complex relationships and dynamics within the Hamady family. Along with Toni, we are introduced to his brothers Abbas (Veysel Gelin), Amara (Almila Bagriacik), and Latif (Massiv), who each have to navigate their own personal struggles while balancing family loyalty and their own desires. The show also features strong female characters, including Kalila (Maryam Zaree), who is a lawyer and Toni's wife, and Vince (Anne Ratte-Polle), a detective who is determined to take down the Hamadys.

One of the show's strengths is its portrayal of the Arab community in Berlin. It showcases the vibrant culture, traditions, and values of the community while also delving into the issues and struggles that they face. It highlights the racism and discrimination that they encounter and the challenges of balancing their heritage with their place in modern Western society.

Another standout feature of 4 Blocks is its extraordinary production values. The show is stylishly shot, with a strong emphasis on mood and atmosphere. The visuals are complemented by the music, which features both classic Arabic tunes and contemporary hip-hop beats that pulse throughout the show. The result is a thrilling watch that immerses the audience in the world of the Hamadys and the diverse communities surrounding them.

In terms of its themes, 4 Blocks explores the impact of criminal activity on families and communities. It examines how crime can be a part of people's identity, while also showing how it can create danger and destruction for all involved. It is a nuanced take on crime drama, as it portrays the human side of those who engage in illegal activities.

Overall, 4 Blocks is an excellent crime drama that features captivating characters, stunning visuals, and top-notch performances. It is a gripping and thrilling watch that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The series has cemented itself as a classic in German television and is not to be missed for anyone looking for a fresh and exciting crime drama.

4 Blocks is a series that is currently running and has 3 seasons (19 episodes). The series first aired on May 8, 2017.