Name: AlRawabi School for Girls
Genre: Drama
Released: 2021-08-12T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Tara Abboud, Sarah Yousef, Tara Atalla, Kira Yaghnam, Thalia Elansari

The first scene of AlRawabi School for Girls is a gut-punch: Mariam, slumped in the bathroom stall, blood trickling down her leg, whispering to herself, “This isn’t happening. This isn’t happening.” It’s a stark introduction to the brutality that unfolds at this prestigious Jordanian girls’ school. Creator Tima Shomali doesn’t mince words—this is a series about the vicious cycles of bullying and the systemic failures that enable it.

Shomali’s script is sharp, weaving together two seasons of intertwining narratives that expose the dark underbelly of elite education. The first season revolves around Mariam (Andria Tayeh) and her friends as they plot revenge against their tormentors, only to find that their actions spiral into something far more dangerous than anticipated. The second season shifts focus to Sarah (Tara Abboud) and a new cast of characters, delving into cyberbullying, stalking, and the insidious reach of social media. Both seasons are unflinching in their portrayal of patriarchal oppression, corrupt institutions, and the mental health crises that stem from them.

The performances are the series’ strongest suit. Tayeh’s portrayal of Mariam is particularly striking—her quiet intensity and vulnerability make her a compelling protagonist. Noor Taher as Layan and Rakeen Saad as Noaf bring depth to their roles, each navigating the complexities of friendship, betrayal, and survival within the school’s toxic environment. In the second season, Abboud shines as Sarah, capturing the desperation and resilience of a girl fighting against overwhelming odds.

Shomali’s direction is confident, with a keen eye for visual storytelling. The cinematography effectively contrasts the pristine exterior of AlRawabi School with the ugliness that festers within its walls. The use of tight close-ups during confrontations amplifies the tension, while sweeping shots of the school’s hallways underscore the isolation and claustrophobia felt by the characters.

However, the series isn’t without its flaws. At times, the pacing in the first season feels uneven, with some plot points resolved too quickly or introduced without sufficient buildup. The shift to a new cast in the second season is jarring for some viewers, though it allows the show to explore fresh perspectives and themes.

Themes of bullying, mental health, and systemic oppression are handled with sensitivity and urgency. Shomali doesn’t shy away from difficult subjects, such as honour killings and sexual assault, grounding them in the characters’ lived experiences. The series also provides resources for viewers dealing with similar issues, a testament to its commitment to raising awareness.

AlRawabi School for Girls is a powerful exploration of the struggles faced by young women in a patriarchal society.

Tags: dramas, AlRawabi School for Girls, Andria Tayeh, Noor Taher, Rakeen Saad