Gangs of Oslo is a captivating drama that keeps you hooked, even though some crucial pieces of the puzzle are missing. At its core, you have Moaz and Rami, childhood friends turned arch-enemies, and you can’t help but wonder about their past. What caused Rami to become a notorious gangster, and how did Moaz move on from their shared history? Rami, the enigmatic gang leader, commands both fear and admiration. Some see him as a godlike figure, while others see him as a ruthless menace. Moaz, on the other hand, is just trying to find some peace amid the chaos of his life, which is riddled with problems. What makes Gangs of Oslo so fascinating, is the interconnectedness of the characters.

The central theme of the show is the interconnectedness of their lives, how choices made in their youth continue to shape their destinies, and the blurred line between good and evil. The narrative is driven by the tension between these two characters, their personal struggles, and the crime syndicates they are involved with. One of the prevailing themes throughout the series is Reconciliation. As characters deal with their past mistakes, they seek a path toward Redemption. Gangs of Oslo poses intriguing questions about whether it’s possible to make amends when one’s life has been tainted by darkness. Furthermore, it explores the murky world of power and influence, personified by Rami’s role as a formidable gang leader and Moaz’s position as a dedicated police officer. This theme delves into the dynamics of power within society and the far-reaching influence of criminal organizations.

A standout feature of Gangs of Oslo is its stunning cinematography. The series beautifully captures the essence of the story, showcasing the stark contrast between the breathtaking natural landscapes and the city’s gritty urban side. The cinematographers employ a wide range of techniques, including tracking shots, aerial views, and intense close-ups, to create a visually captivating experience for viewers. The show’s use of low-light settings and moody atmospheres contributes to its suspenseful and ominous tone. At the same time, the supporting cast of Gangs of Oslo is equally impressive. Moaz’s colleagues within the police force and Rami’s loyal henchmen are all well-developed characters, who contribute to the storyline. Each character brings their own unique perspective, which adds depth to the overarching narrative. Their interactions and conflicts serve to propel the plot forward and keep viewers engaged throughout the series.

The character of Moaz embodies Indecision. His reluctance to confront his past and his childhood friend Rami’s criminal activities weighs heavily on him. Moaz’s initial Indecisiveness stems from his fear of confronting Rami and the dark past they share. As a result, he often finds himself caught between the loyalty he once had for Rami and his duty as a police officer. On the other hand, Rami uses Moaz’s Indecisiveness to his advantage. He exploits Moaz, knowing that his childhood friend’s hesitation can be manipulated. Rami’s actions often leave Moaz in an ethical dilemma, where he must decide whether to protect his friend or not. Rami’s calculated moves highlight how Indecision can be a potent tool in the hands of someone willing to exploit it.

Indecisive actions also take a toll on the characters’ relationships. Moaz’s wife, for example, grows increasingly frustrated with his inability to confront his past, which strains their marriage. Gangs of Oslo underscores how indecision can erode trust and create emotional distance between loved ones. On the other hand, Moaz’s struggle with communication is a significant aspect of his character. While the series doesn’t explicitly delve into it, this part of Moaz’s story is portrayed as a part of his life that he must cope with. He often experiences difficulties with focus, organization, and impulsivity, which impact various aspects of their lives, including work and relationships.

Rami knows that Moaz’s difficulty staying focused and his tendency to act on emotions can be used to distract law enforcement and create diversions. Rami’s apparent concern for Moaz’s well-being may be genuine to some extent, as they share a complicated history and friendship. However, Rami is also pragmatic and ruthless when it comes to achieving his goals. He doesn’t hesitate to put Moaz in morally compromising situations, knowing that Moaz’s impulsivity can lead him to make decisions that benefit Rami’s interests. Now, Moaz’s relationship with his daughter Tiril portrays a father’s dedication to his child; his love for Tiril is evident throughout the series, and his actions are often driven by a desire to provide for and protect her.

Tiril serves as a source of motivation and a reminder of the consequences of his actions. It pushes him to navigate the treacherous world of criminal investigations and maintain a precarious balance between his professional life and the dangerous underworld. The same thing happens in Tarik’s case; Moaz initially meets him when Rami appoints him as a mediator between him and Moaz. His connection with Tarik runs deeper than just a professional obligation. Moaz sees a reflection of his younger self in Tarik—a troubled teenager caught in a cycle of criminal behavior. Moaz is driven by empathy and a desire to prevent Tarik from making the same mistakes he once did. Moaz’s own history as a delinquent and his Association with Rami make him uniquely equipped to understand Tarik. 

Rami exploits Tarik’s vulnerabilities for his own gain. Rami sees in Tarik a potential recruit who can be molded into a loyal member of his criminal organization. He lures Tarik into the criminal world with promises of wealth and power, ultimately ensnaring the impressionable young boy. However, Rami’s actions are not entirely straightforward, as he often gaslights Tarik and even Moaz by denying any ill intentions toward them. One fascinating aspect of Rami’s character is his strong desire to become a responsible father to his unborn child and a supportive partner to his girlfriend, Majken. This aspiration offers a glimpse of a more humane side to his character. Nevertheless, Rami’s manipulation doesn’t spare Majken, as he occasionally uses her for his own benefit, showcasing the ambiguity of his character.