Review of Money Heist (2017)

General Information

• Original Title: La Casa de Papel
• Creator: Álex Pina
• Main Cast:
  • Úrsula Corberó (Tokyo)
  • Álvaro Morte (The Professor)
  • Itziar Ituño (Raquel Murillo)
  • Pedro Alonso (Berlin)
  • Miguel Herrán (Rio)
  • Jaime Lorente (Denver)
  • Esther Acebo (Mónica Gaztambide)
• Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
• Original Release Date: May 2, 2017 (Spanish version)
• Platform: Initially aired on Spain’s Antena 3, later picked up by Netflix

Plot

Money Heist (originally La Casa de Papel) tells the story of a meticulously planned heist orchestrated by the enigmatic mastermind known as “The Professor” (Álvaro Morte). The heist involves the robbing of Spain’s Royal Mint, where a group of eight criminals with city-based codenames (Tokyo, Berlin, Rio, etc.) come together to carry out the plan. Their mission is not just to print money but also to escape with it, all while keeping the Spanish police at bay and avoiding capture. As the heist unfolds, tensions rise among the criminals themselves, as well as between the robbers and the police, particularly through the character of Raquel Murillo (Itziar Ituño), the lead investigator.

Season 1 of Money Heist sets up the high-stakes drama, combining heist action with emotional moments and intricate interpersonal dynamics among the robbers. The series gradually introduces us to the motivations and backstories of each member of the crew, with tension and suspense building toward the big reveal.

Highlights

1. The Professor’s Strategy and Leadership
   • Álvaro Morte’s portrayal of the Professor is a standout. As the mastermind behind the heist, he is both calculating and charismatic, a character who orchestrates the heist from behind the scenes. His intellect, along with his calm and collected demeanor, makes him an intriguing leader, whose manipulations and strategies often leave both the police and viewers guessing.
2. The Heist and Tension
   • The tension in Money Heist is palpable. The heist itself is well-planned, but as it progresses, things don’t go according to plan, creating constant suspense. The robbers’ interactions with each other, as well as their evolving relationships, bring both human drama and high-stakes action. As the police close in, the pressure mounts, and every move becomes critical. The show effectively balances the tension inside the Mint with the larger psychological battles between law enforcement and criminals.
3. Strong Ensemble Cast
   • The series thrives on its ensemble cast, with each character being more than just a criminal stereotype. Tokyo (Úrsula Corberó) serves as the series’ narrator and one of its most reckless but emotionally complex characters. Berlin (Pedro Alonso) brings a dark charisma to the team as the Professor’s brother, whose leadership style is ruthless yet magnetic. Other members, like Rio (Miguel Herrán) and Denver (Jaime Lorente), bring their own backstories and emotions, which humanize them amid the crime drama.
4. Emotional Depth and Character Development
   • The show does not just focus on the heist; it dives deep into the backstories and personal struggles of the characters. Their motivations, vulnerabilities, and internal conflicts become central to the story, making them more relatable and multi-dimensional. This emotional depth adds an unexpected layer to what might otherwise be a straightforward action series.
5. Twists and Cliffhangers
   • Money Heist excels in delivering unexpected twists and cliffhangers that keep viewers hooked. The series is filled with surprises, betrayals, and moments that defy expectations. These plot twists give the show its edge, and its ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats is one of its greatest strengths.

Criticisms

1. Pacing in the First Season
   • While Money Heist is praised for its suspense, some viewers have pointed out that the pacing can feel slow at times, especially in the early episodes. The series takes time to establish characters and motivations, which might feel drawn out before the plot gains significant momentum.
2. Character Stereotypes
   • While the characters are generally well-developed, some have been criticized for fitting into familiar stereotypes (e.g., the hot-headed rebel, the calm strategist, etc.). However, as the series progresses, many of these characters are given more complexity, making their arcs more compelling.
3. Unrealistic Elements
   • Some viewers may find the heist itself—along with the level of manipulation and planning involved—unrealistic or exaggerated. While the series leans into these fantastical elements, it may be difficult for some to suspend disbelief fully, especially in terms of the robbers’ ability to stay ahead of the authorities for so long.

Verdict

Money Heist (Season 1, 2017) is a fast-paced, emotionally charged crime drama that mixes heist thrills with character-driven storytelling. The ensemble cast, led by the magnetic Professor, and the constant tension between the robbers and the police make for an addictive and engaging show. With its brilliant twists, deep character arcs, and suspenseful plot, Money Heist offers much more than just a simple action thriller. It’s a smart, compelling series that leaves viewers craving more.

Rating: 8.5/10