Bahloul: The Wisest of the Madmen (2007)

Original title: بهلول أعقل المجانين

A Syrian historical series about the people of the Karkh district in Baghdad. Among its residents is a man called Abu Wahb, a wise and righteous figure who solves the city’s problems. The caliph intended to appoint him as Chief Judge, but fearing for his faith, Abu Wahb was instructed to feign madness. He then began appearing in public riding a reed, and people gave him the name ‘Bahloul.