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Spanish-language cinema and television shows, despite the prevalence of the language globally, have historically been undervalued on the world stage. However, this trend is changing, thanks in part to acclaimed filmmakers like Alfonso Cuaron and Guillermo del Toro who have brought Latin American cinema into the spotlight. The emergence of streaming platforms and the globalization of entertainment have played a crucial role in making diverse content more accessible to audiences worldwide.
Netflix, in particular, has become a frontrunner in offering content in various languages with subtitles, significantly investing in the production of shows from different regions. Their collection of shows from Latin America and Spain has grown impressively in recent years. For those looking to broaden their viewing experience, here are 10 Spanish-language shows on Netflix that deserve a spot on your must-watch list.
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10 Spanish-Language Shows on Netflix to Watch Next
Cable Girls (2017-2020)
Cable Girls, a Spanish period drama that premiered in 2017 and concluded its five-season run in three years, is set in the late-1920s Madrid, where a telecommunications company emerges. The narrative revolves around four young women navigating the societal constraints of the time as they find employment in the company. The show provides a realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by women in the ’20s, particularly within the confines of a traditional Spanish society. It refrains from romanticizing the difficulties, offering a poignant depiction of the women’s resilience and determination to pursue their aspirations despite the prevailing gender norms.
Everything Will Be Fine (2021)
In the 2021 Mexican Netflix series “Everything Will Be Fine,” crafted by Diego Luna, a separated couple finds themselves compelled to cohabit again for the sake of their child. Despite their personal reluctance to share space, their commitment to enhancing their child’s life becomes a driving force. The series, although encountering narrative challenges, presents a compelling viewing experience and prompts discussions about the complexities of marriage and effective parenting. Additionally, it encourages viewers to reflect on the purpose of legal marriage.
La Casa de Papel / Money Heist (2017-2021)
Originally broadcast in 2017 and later gaining popularity on Netflix, Money Heist became a global sensation and inspired remakes in various countries, including a Korean adaptation. The show revolves around eight individuals plotting a daring heist at the Royal Mint of Spain to steal nearly a billion dollars, presenting a complex and challenging plan.
What makes Money Heist exceptional is its thrilling and unique approach within the heist genre. The series has garnered immense love for deviating from typical expectations, establishing its own standards and setting itself apart in the world of heist shows.
Elite (2018-Present)
Elite, currently in its seventh season with the eighth and final season on the horizon, unfolds within an upscale high school that caters to privileged students. The protagonists, typically outside the elite social circle, are three working-class scholarship students grappling with unfamiliar surroundings and people.
What Makes It Outstanding While Elite may not align with the standards of highbrow cinema or television, it stands out for its sheer entertainment value. This Spanish young adult series injects ample tension and drama, skillfully elevating common tropes to a higher level without veering into monotony or excessive extravagance.
The House of Flowers (2018-2020)
The Mexican TV series “The House of Flowers” delivers a compelling mix of dark humor and familial chaos across its three seasons. Centered around a family running a local flower shop, the show unveils the intricacies of their messy personal lives, offering viewers a front-row seat to their reactions as new conflicts and revelations arise. As a telenovela, it stands out for its memorable moments and adept handling of dark humor. The Spanish-language series provides a modern take on the traditional telenovela, addressing contemporary issues with wit and flair.
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Puerta 7 (2020)
Puerta 7, an Argentine television series available on Netflix since 2020, provides a unique glimpse into the world of soccer and its impact on everyday fans. The show, which falls under the crime and thriller genres, delves into the phenomenon of “barra bravas,” passionate and often bare-chested soccer superfans in Argentina. These fans’ intense love for their teams can lead to violent confrontations, including fatal clashes with the police.
What sets Puerta 7 apart is its exploration of a topic rarely addressed in broader discussions about fandoms, particularly within the soccer/football community. Despite not being widely recognized, the show plays a crucial role in shedding light on real-world issues associated with fan culture and the consequences it can have on society.
Green Frontier (2019)
“Green Frontier, a Colombian crime thriller on Netflix, takes viewers deep into the Amazon rainforest, where a detective ventures to investigate homicides along the Brazil border. The series, while not overly flashy, captivates with its intense storytelling and explores profound themes of spirituality and our relationship with the Earth. In the context of climate change, the show’s emphasis on indigenous tribes and their determination to safeguard their secrets adds an extra layer of intrigue.”
La Reina del Sur (2011-Present)
In La Reina del Sur, a Mexican woman, deeply in love with a pilot, embarks on a remarkable journey towards becoming one of the most influential drug traffickers in Spain. The narrative unfolds as her boyfriend faces execution by drug cartels, compelling her to flee to Spain, where she initiates the creation of her own empire. Despite the challenges, she cannot afford to reminisce about the security she once enjoyed, as the repercussions of her actions loom large.
What Makes It Outstanding: This telenovela, adapted from a novel, skillfully builds tension across multiple seasons. It caters to enthusiasts of drama and unconventional scenarios, making La Reina del Sur a must-watch for those seeking an engaging and thrilling experience.
Club de Cuervos (2015-2019)
Released in 2015, “Club de Cuervos” marked Netflix’s inaugural foray into crafting Spanish-language narratives. The series unfolds against the backdrop of a football team in crisis – the owner’s demise prompts his less competent son to assume control, despite the fact that his sister is better suited for the role. The ensuing power struggle between the siblings, while not enjoyable for them, proves to be engaging and relatable for viewers who have experienced the frustration of witnessing someone undeserving ascend to a position of authority.
Ingobernable (2017)
In Ingobernable, Mexico’s first lady embarks on a new mission after losing faith in her husband. Struggling with the consequences, her life takes a dramatic turn when he is murdered following a heated argument. Waking up with the gun in her hand, she becomes a fugitive, raising the question: did she commit the crime? The Spanish-language series excels as a captivating thriller, standing out with its strong presentation and narrative direction. Unlike some poorly written telenovelas, Ingobernable offers a solid viewing experience, and its binge-worthy format makes it ideal for those seeking a compelling yet manageable television show.
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