Director: Alireza Amini

Cast: Hadi Kazemi, Samaneh Pakdel, Mohammadreza Hedayati, Sahar Ghoreishi, Bahare Afshari

13 Shomali is a 2018 Iranian comedy series directed by Alireza Amini, featuring two rival groups — one of men and one of women — who face off in a structured competition. The show blends sharp humor, team dynamics, and playful rivalry into a fast-paced episodic format.

What is 13 Shomali about?

The series centers on a contest called the Northern 13 challenge, in which eight participants are split into two opposing teams: a group of men (played by Amirehossein Arman, Kambiz Dirbaz, Hadi Kazemi, and Mohammadreza Hedayati) and a group of women (Sahar Ghoreishi, Leila Otadi, Samaneh Pakdel, and Bahare Afshari). Over the course of the competition, both teams must complete four defined rounds or challenges within a five-day window. The premise thrives on the contrast between the two squads — their strategies, disagreements, and unexpected moments of camaraderie. Each episode advances the contest while building comic tension and character moments that keep the tone light and entertaining throughout.

Cast & crew

Director Alireza Amini leads a well-known ensemble. Hadi Kazemi and Mohammadreza Hedayati are familiar faces from Iranian television comedy. Samaneh Pakdel and Bahare Afshari are prominent actresses with strong comedic timing. Kambiz Dirbaz and Amirehossein Arman round out the men's side, while Sahar Ghoreishi brings energy to the women's team.

Context & significance

13 Shomali belongs to a tradition of Iranian ensemble comedy series that rely on group chemistry rather than a single protagonist. For diaspora viewers, the format feels familiar — quick episodes, witty banter, and a cast filled with recognizable Iranian TV personalities. The competitive structure gives the show a game-show edge layered over sitcom sensibility. Persian-speaking audiences abroad often return to this style of comedy for its cultural warmth, colloquial humor, and the comfort of hearing everyday Iranian speech. The 60-minute episode format makes it easy to watch in a single sitting.

Where & how to watch

13 Shomali is available on K-Time. The series is in original Persian audio. Watch on the web, on your TV, or on your phone — no VPN needed, no geo-blocking, and you can cancel anytime.