Netflix's biographical crime drama 'Griselda' has been hailed as a 'masterpiece' by fans and critics, who can't stop binge-watching the series. The show, starring Sofía Vergara, has drawn comparisons to the acclaimed 'Narcos' and is currently streaming on Netflix.
Series Overview and Reception
'Griselda' is a six-part limited series featuring Sofía Vergara in the lead role as Griselda Blanco, known as 'The Godmother of Cocaine'. The role marks a dramatic departure from her beloved character Gloria Delgado-Pritchett in 'Modern Family'. The series has been lauded as 'binge-worthy', 'outstanding', and a 'powerhouse' by audiences and critics alike.
The show was directed by Colombian-born Andrés Baiz and co-created by Ingrid Escajeda, Carlo Bernard, Doug Miro, and Eric Newman. Escajeda also serves as showrunner, with Newman and Vergara as executive producers.
Plot and Debut
The series offers an in-depth look at the life of the infamous Colombian drug lord and debuted on Netflix on 25 January 2024. Within its opening week, 'Griselda' claimed the number one spot in 90 countries and topped Netflix's Global Weekly Top 10 TV (English) charts.
The official synopsis reads: "The savvy and ambitious Colombian businesswomen Griselda Blanco creates one of the most profitable cartels in history."
Cast and Accolades
Vergara leads an ensemble cast including Alberto Guerra, Martin Rodriguez, Juliana Aidén Martinez, Vanessa Ferlito, and Christian Tappan. Her performance has earned her a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie and a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress - Miniseries or Television Film.
Critics have been effusive in their praise. One wrote: "Although events have been heavily fictionalised, Griselda is a gloriously entertaining watch that's made all the better by Vergara's powerhouse performance as the titular crime boss." Another said: "The series stands out by capturing the complexity of Griselda Blanco, balancing her power and vulnerability. Now Vergara is nearly unrecognizable and sensational in this role."
Viewer Reactions
Viewers have been similarly captivated. One wrote: "Outstanding performance by Sofia Vergara in a fast paced thriller series about Colombia's notorious female narcotics baron Griselda Blanco. This series is every bit as good, or even better than, the Narcos series. Certainly, if you liked Narcos you will enjoy Griselda."
Another IMDB user commented: "Loved every minute. A great actress, unique story, captivating. The actress portraying Griselda delivers a stellar performance, capturing her strength and vulnerability with authenticity."
Comparisons to 'Narcos' have been frequent. One admirer said: "Incredible. Narcos was amazing, this was equally amazing! Sofia Vergara was incredible. This really showed so much talent and you really could see Griselda rather than Sofia. my goodness this show was incredible. Production was amazing. Brilliant."
Another viewer added: "Binge-worthy! Intense, dramatic drug cartel series with lots of action, twists, turns and double-crossing. Sophia Vergara is a force to be reckoned with! a 180 degree turn from her previous TV personas!"
One fan concluded: "Netflix's new series 'Griselda' is an absolute masterpiece! The gripping storyline, stellar performances, and impeccable production make it a must-watch. The character development is top-notch, and each episode leaves you craving more. Kudos to the entire cast and crew for delivering a five-star entertainment experience. This is binge-worthy excellence at its finest!"
'Griselda' is available to stream on Netflix.
