The 1980s are a time that holds a lot of historical importance for Kuwait. Whether in the world of sports, politics, or the stock market. “The Exchange” is an insight into what it was like for women during that time in Kuwait and how they broke through barriers and created a space for themselves in an extremely male-dominated industry at the time.
The Exchange is a story which perfectly takes you on a journey of two women and their personal struggles to make a life for themselves and their family. Based on the life of Nadia Ahmad, who is also one of the creators and writers of this show, we are given a rare insight into how the 80s were for Kuwaiti women in the country and how difficult breaking barriers were when you don’t have anyone else on your side to become the first two women to work at the Kuwait stock exchange.
Starring Rawan Mahdi as Farida and Mona Hussain as Munira perfectly encapsulated their characters. Farida, a recently divorced woman determined to provide for her daughter aiming to get into the workforce after over 10 years, and Munira, a clerk at the Kuwait Stock Exchange under the Bank of Tomorrow’s division, are cousins who find a way to come together and prove that they deserve their rightful place in the stock exchange.
“Agreeing to play Munira was a risk for me because it’s very different than anything I have worked on during my career, and the fact that this would be on Netflix makes it an even bigger risk. However, it’s a risk I’m so happy I took, and I’m glad to be a part of this project,” said Mona Hussain.
Produced by Abdullah Boushahri and directed by Karim El Shenawy and Jasem Al-Muhanna, this show was a welcome challenge for them. For a show to be the first in Kuwait to be on Netflix and releasing in over 180 countries at the same time, this was an opportunity to not only put Kuwait on the world stage but to show the incredible talent and history available in the country and the region.
“The 80s were a time that shaped Kuwait’s history whether in sports, politics, TV or music. I grew up in Kuwait in the 80s and the fact that the show is based on that time was something that really grabbed my interest and to produce the first Kuwaiti Netflix TV show made it something that I had to take on.” said Abdullah Boushahri when speaking about what made him agree to take on this project.
The show has been a must-watch since before its release, and it did not disappoint. Whether you focus on the intriguing script, the incredible acting, the magnificent clothing, or the captivating storyline, this is a show that will keep you wanting more and definitely “bingeing” the full season.
You can watch “The Exchange” on Netflix.com and stay up to date with the latest new productions from Netflix, especially those catered for the Arab world, by following them on Instagram @NetflixMENA.
