5.6 / 10 (based on 363 reviews)
Lupe is a Mexican girl whose life takes an unexpected turn when she learns of the death of her father, El Faraón. Lupe decides to leave her native Mexico behind to travel to Cartagena to attend the funeral. She quickly realizes that nothing there is what it seems and decides to enter a music contest to be close to her father and investigate his suspicious death.
Genre: Drama, Musical, Mystery
Main Cast: Karol Sevilla, Adriana Romero, Juliana Velásquez, Katherine Escobar
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2 seasons, 18 episodes, 40-minute runtime
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5.1 / 10 (based on 334 reviews)
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A 16 year old Carol is going through a period of major changes in her life. On the one hand, Carol has to deal with her mother’s marriage to her new boyfriend and the impending relationship with her future stepbrother. On the other hand, a new school year begins in high school, in which Carol starts her first real relationship and experiences various situations with her long-time friends that also put their friendship to the test. Carol faces the typical challenges of being a teenager and experiences feelings that she has never felt in this form before and learns that the first step to happiness is to know yourself and also to respect your own feelings, even if you do make one or two mistakes on the way there.
Genre: Comedy, Drama
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2 seasons, 18 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
Scream (2015)
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A serialized anthology series that follows a group of teenagers being targeted by a masked serial killer.
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7.1 / 10 (based on 7604 reviews)
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In the world of television, where originality often takes a backseat to tried-and-tested formulas, “It Was Always Me” emerges as a refreshing narrative that combines elements of mystery, drama, and romance in a way that feels both familiar and innovative. This Spanish-language series, originally titled “Siempre Fui Yo,” takes viewers on a journey to Colombia, where the protagonist, Lupe, played by the charismatic Karol Sevilla, finds herself entangled in a web of secrets following her father’s mysterious death.
The Premise
At its core, “It Was Always Me” revolves around Lupe, a young woman from Mexico who travels to Colombia upon learning of her father, El Faraón’s (The Pharaoh), untimely demise. El Faraón, a beloved music icon in Colombia, leaves behind a legacy shrouded in mystery, prompting Lupe to investigate the true cause of his death. Accompanied by Noah, portrayed by Pipe Bueno, a charming and enigmatic character with his own set of secrets, Lupe embarks on a quest that uncovers truths far beyond what she had anticipated.
Why It Stands Out
A Fresh Take on Familiar Themes
While the premise of uncovering family secrets is not new to television, “It Was Always Me” distinguishes itself through its vibrant setting and compelling character dynamics. The Colombian backdrop is not just a location but a character in its own right, imbuing the story with a rich cultural tapestry that influences the narrative at every turn. From the music to the scenery, the show celebrates Colombian culture, making it an integral part of the story rather than a mere exotic setting.
Character Depth
Lupe is not your typical protagonist. Yes, she is determined and brave, qualities we’ve come to expect from our heroes, but it’s her vulnerability and growth throughout the series that make her relatable. Her journey is as much about self-discovery as it is about solving the mystery of her father’s death. This depth of character is mirrored in the supporting cast, each with their own arcs and complexities that enrich the overarching narrative.
The Element of Music
Music plays a pivotal role in “It Was Always Me,” serving both as a plot device and a thematic element that ties the story together. The series does an excellent job of integrating music into its narrative, using it to reveal character backgrounds, advance the plot, and convey emotions in a way that dialogue alone could not. This emphasis on music not only pays homage to El Faraón’s legacy but also highlights the universal language of melody and rhythm, making the series accessible to a global audience.
Not Just Another Mystery Drama
While the mystery of El Faraón’s death is the driving force of the plot, “It Was Always Me” is much more than a simple whodunit. The series skillfully weaves elements of romance, comedy, and drama to create a multifaceted narrative that keeps viewers engaged beyond the mere thrill of the mystery.
Romance
The dynamic between Lupe and Noah is a key element of the series, evolving from mutual distrust to a deep, complex relationship. Their romance is not without its challenges, providing a realistic portrayal of how relationships develop, especially under extraordinary circumstances. This romance adds an emotional layer to the series, grounding the fantastical elements of the mystery in the relatable experiences of love and loss.
Comedy and Drama
Humor is used effectively throughout the series, providing moments of levity that balance the darker themes of death and betrayal. The comedic elements are never forced, arising naturally from the characters’ interactions and situations they find themselves in. Similarly, the drama is handled with a deft touch, ensuring that the emotional moments resonate without veering into melodrama.
Conclusion
“It Was Always Me” is a testament to the power of storytelling that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers. It combines a compelling mystery with rich character development, set against the vibrant backdrop of Colombia, and underscored by a universal appreciation for music. The series manages to be both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering a unique viewing experience that stands out in a sea of formulaic television.
For viewers looking for a series that offers more than just a mystery to be solved, “It Was Always Me” delivers a multifaceted narrative that explores themes of love, identity, and the pursuit of truth. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the journey is just as important as the destination, and that the answers we seek can often lead us to discover more about ourselves than we ever anticipated.