‘Money Heist’ is Edging Out ‘Tiger King’ on Netflix, Here’s Why You Should Watch
Netflix has the entertainment world buzzing with the release of its first quarter data and the revelation of its most-streamed shows. While the weekly “Top 10” list provides a reliable gauge of the most popular content on the streamer, the viewership information tells another story.
Tiger King was and continues to be an unexpected hit for Netflix, but Money Heist (La Casa de Papel) clocked in with more views than the docuseries – by 1 million.
The numbers are at 65 million and are still climbing. If you haven’t checked it out yet, learn why you should add the crime drama to your list and why Stephen King and Netflix executives are huge fans.
What’s the gist of ‘Money Heist’?
Money Heist is also commonly referred to as La Casa de Papel, and it’s a Spanish series that centers on a group of robbers who first come together as strangers to pull off a heist. The roll into Madrid with a tight plan and backup plans too.
No one uses their real names, and the team is led by a mastermind named The Professor. The thing is that the show will have you rooting for the thieves.
Parts 1 to 4 are available to stream on Netflix right now, and over the course of all four installments, the gang pulls off one heist with another in limbo. Without giving too much away, know there are sophisticated steps involved with robbing the Royal Mint and later, the Bank of Madrid.
At the end of each season, fans are holding on to the edge of the cliff with their own nails because of the show’s intensity. The action, the drama, the jokes, and the thrills will engage you.
Character development is a ‘Money Heist’ strong suit
Viewers are introduced to the core group of robbers in parts 1 and 2 and each of them have their own backstories and areas of expertise. In the beginning, two women and seven men carry out the plan, and later in the series, others join the crew.
There are family dynamics, friendship dynamics, and a bit of romance. But the backdrop is action.
Because the characters are so well-written as individuals, it’s easy to pick your favorites, name your villains, or cheer for who you think is the most badass. But you’ll also weep for the ones who are lost along the way.
Tokyo (Úrsula Corberó) serves as the narrator but there’s also a hacker, a charmer, counterfeit experts, street savvy thieves, arms guys, and of course, the brains. The actors all do a wonderful job of making you love or hate their characters.
The storytelling is clever and fun
Don’t be fooled by the fact that this series falls under the crime/action genre. There’s more to it, and if you like dramas that are intelligently written, then you’ll love La Casa de Papel.
There are twists and turns with plenty of moments that will have you guessing how the team will outfox their enemies: the Spanish authorities.
Learn the symbolism behind ‘La Casa de Papel’
Your friends, family, and co-workers who are already in the know recognize the red jumpsuits, Salvador Dalí masks, and the song, “Bella ciao.” All are connected to the idea of rebellion, or resistance, something that fans and the show’s characters find relatable.
Since Money Heist has grown in popularity, the masks – and the suits – have been used in protests around the world.
‘Money Heist’ was inspired by popular American films
The series creator, Álex Pina, was very deliberate when he set out to write a heist story. Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs and the Ocean’s franchise served as inspiration for certain elements in La Casa de Papel. Pina also shared that Tokyo’s character is a take on Mathilda from Léon: The Professional.
But he wanted to create something unique in the television space, and cites the emotional depth and passion of the characters as one of the standout qualities of the series.
In 2019, Money Heist shattered records for Netflix, and since part 4 dropped on April 3, the series is soaring again.
According to what Netflix brass shared during their shareholders’ meeting, the show is projected to grow in viewership over the next few months. It even has a chance to beat out Tiger King.
