Netflix's biographical crime drama Griselda, starring Sofía Vergara, has been dubbed a '10/10 masterpiece' and a 'binge-worthy' series by viewers, with many admitting they are watching it 'again and again'. The six-part show, based on the real life of Colombian drug lord Griselda Blanco, known as 'The Godmother of Cocaine', has captivated both critics and audiences alike.
Immediate Success on Netflix
Released worldwide on Netflix on January 25, 2024, the series shot to the number one spot in 90 countries and topped Netflix's Global Weekly Top 10 TV (English) rankings almost immediately. Each episode runs for 50 minutes, and the show features an ensemble cast including Alberto Guerra, Martin Rodriguez, Juliana Aidén Martinez, Vanessa Ferlito, and Christian Tappan.
Vergara's performance 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.
Legal Battle Over Image Rights
The show's true-story basis led to a lawsuit from Griselda Blanco's real-life son, Michael Corleone Blanco, and his wife, Marie, who sued Netflix, Vergara, and others in January 2024, days before the show's release. The legal action alleged unauthorized usage of the family's 'image, likeness, and/or identity' without consent or compensation. The suit was dismissed with prejudice in February 2024, meaning the same claim cannot be brought back to court.
Critical and Audience Acclaim
The official plot states: "Fleeing from Medellín to Miami, Griselda Blanco creates one of the most ruthless cartels in history." Critics have praised the series, with one writing: "Griselda is terrifically well paced, with racy dialogue best heard in Spanish with English subtitles, a wonderful soundtrack, perfect 70s costumes, cars and sets, plus outstandingly stylish acting."
Another reviewer said: "Fast-paced and well-acted, the show is brutal, fascinating and full of high drama." One critic noted Vergara's performance: "Even though the attempt at a makeover is an unfortunate distraction, the former Modern Family star goes full Pacino-in-Scarface mode and delivers a robust, screen-rattling, suitably over-the-top performance."
Audience reviews echo the praise. One Rotten Tomatoes review reads: "This show was amazing. I’ve seen it twice, it was so good. Sofia did an amazing job in this role. Hope she gets cast for more serious roles. One of the best series so far this year from any platform. My only complaint is that it was too short. Should have been 8 episodes instead of 6. Other than that this show is a 10/10."
An IMDB user wrote: "Incredible, unpredictable acting! Griselda is easily the best of Netflix's NARCOS series, and that's thanks to Vergara's performance. Sofia Vergara is a versatile actress. I mean she is an actress capable of shaking mountains with her voice and violence in a way I didn't know was possible before this limited series."
Another fan said: "Wow! Outstanding performance by Sofia Vergara!!!! Will probably watch again. Very good from beginning to end. I was completely mesmerized with this story. Definitely worth watching! Incredible what goes on in this world. A shockingly good serie that will captivate you."
One viewer commented: "Utterly brilliant! Love love loving this series. From the second it starts you are gripped by the storyline and the suspense. There is not a dull moment. I literally am binge-watching this. It's so good!"
Another review reads: "Sofia Vergara is 5 stars. She was simply perfect and the rest of the cast was very good to excellent. Easy Binge."
Griselda is available to stream on Netflix.
