6.6 / 10 (based on 420 reviews)
Paulo Duarte dies. An apparent suicide that does not convince anyone – neither the police nor his sister Teresa, who decides to leave her life in Lisbon to find out what really happened to her brother. Teresa is not mistaken and Paul’s death hides much more than it seems – an arms trafficking network led by Mauro Galdón, Teresa’s successful businessman and godfather. The unexpected death of her brother causes Teresa to see her life change suddenly. Unable to wait for the results of the investigation, he moves from Lisbon to Vigo, to work at his brother’s old company and investigate what happened to him. The events led to months of coordinated investigation between the judicial police of Spain and Portugal, under the watchful eye of Interpol.
Genre: Crime, Drama
Main Cast: Victoria Guerra, Monti Castiñeiras, Eva Fernández, Sergio Pazos
Creators: Alfonso Blanco, Araceli Gonda, Daniel D. García
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2 seasons, 14 episodes, 50-minute runtime
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In the vast sea of TV shows that span across genres from comedy to horror, finding a series that captures your attention with a gripping storyline, complex characters, and an intricate plot is like striking gold. “Auga Seca” (2020) is one of those rare finds that might not have made it to everyone’s watchlist yet but certainly deserves a spot.
The Premise
At its core, “Auga Seca” is a crime drama that intricately weaves its narrative around the themes of drug trafficking, family loyalty, and the relentless pursuit of truth. The show is set against the backdrop of Vigo, Spain, and Porto, Portugal, offering viewers not just a cross-border crime story but also a visual treat of the stunning landscapes of the Iberian Peninsula.
The storyline revolves around Teresa, a woman whose life takes a dramatic turn when her brother is found dead under mysterious circumstances. Initially believed to be a suicide, Teresa’s conviction that there’s more to her brother’s death sets her on a collision course with a dangerous world of drug trafficking and corruption that spans across Spain and Portugal.
Characters and Performances
What sets “Auga Seca” apart are its characters, who are far from the one-dimensional figures often seen in crime dramas. Teresa, played with a compelling mix of vulnerability and determination by Victoria Guerra, is the heart of the show. Her journey from a seemingly ordinary woman to someone who is willing to risk everything to uncover the truth is both believable and inspiring.
The supporting cast, including Monti Castiñeiras as Mauro, Sergio Pazos as Lázaro, and Eva Fernández as Mónica, bring depth to the series. Each character, no matter how minor their role might seem, has a backstory and motivations that add layers to the main narrative, making the world of “Auga Seca” feel lived-in and real.
Plot Twists and Turns
One of the most compelling aspects of “Auga Seca” is its ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Just when you think you have figured out where the story is heading, the show throws a curveball that makes you question everything. The plot is dense, with each episode unraveling part of the mystery while simultaneously introducing new questions.
The show excels in creating a suspenseful atmosphere without relying on the overused tropes of surprise for the sake of surprise. Instead, the twists feel earned, a result of carefully laid out clues and character decisions that, in retrospect, make perfect sense.
Visual Storytelling
“Auga Seca” is not just a feast for the mind but also for the eyes. The cinematography beautifully captures the contrast between the bustling city life and the serene landscapes of Spain and Portugal. The visual storytelling complements the narrative, using colors, lighting, and camera angles to reflect the mood and tone of the scenes.
One memorable example is the use of the color blue, which predominates in scenes involving the drug trafficking storyline, creating a cold, almost clinical atmosphere that mirrors the ruthlessness of the world Teresa finds herself in.
The Soundtrack
No discussion of “Auga Seca” would be complete without mentioning its soundtrack. The music plays a pivotal role in setting the tone of the series, with a mix of haunting melodies and pulsating beats that underscore the tension and drama of the storyline. The soundtrack, much like the series itself, is a blend of Spanish and Portuguese influences, reflecting the cross-border nature of the story.
Why It Stands Out
In an era where TV shows often rely on extravagant budgets and star-studded casts to draw in viewers, “Auga Seca” proves that a compelling story, well-developed characters, and smart storytelling are what truly make a series stand out. It’s a testament to the power of international television and the stories that can be told when different cultures and languages come together.
The show also tackles themes of family, loyalty, and the lengths to which one will go to uncover the truth, making it not just a crime drama but a story about human resilience and determination.
Final Thoughts
“Auga Seca” is a gem of a series that deserves more recognition than it has received. With its gripping storyline, complex characters, stunning visuals, and a soundtrack that perfectly complements the mood of the series, it’s a must-watch for anyone who loves a good crime drama.
The series is a reminder that sometimes, the most compelling stories are the ones that fly under the radar, waiting to be discovered by viewers willing to venture beyond their usual watchlist. So, if you’re in search of a show that offers more than just surface-level entertainment, give “Auga Seca” a try. It might just be the series you didn’t know you were looking for.