Cromo

Cromo is a compelling Argentinian drama series that aired in 2015 and was co-produced by TV Pública that beautifully combines the thrill of crime-solving with the depth of environmental science. This groundbreaking formula sets the tone for a unique narrative that skillfully marries science fiction, investigative thrill, and human drama in the backdrop of the breathtaking Argentinian landscape. The series perfectly aligns suspense with science and delivers a narrative that is fraught with devastating truths about ecological crime and the lengths to which one is willing to go to uncover it.

The storyline is deeply rooted in the horrors of environmental crime, a field that is often overlooked in traditional crime dramas. The plot kicks off with the mysterious death of a prominent scientist, Valentina, who had dedicated her life to the noble pursuit of environmental preservation. Valentina and her husband Diego, also a scientist, had been working on a project in the wetlands of Argentina. After her untimely and suspicious demise, Diego is devastated but also suspect. He makes it his own clandestine mission to discover the truth and get to the bottom of the crime.

Alongside him, their mutual friend and fellow scientist Laura (played by Emilia Attias) joins Diego in the quest to disclose the truth. As a fiery, determined, and intelligent woman, Laura is driven by her pursuit of justice. She is not just seeking answers about her friend's death, but she is also trying to uncover the reality of the dangerous ecological crimes taking place in their once pristine surroundings. In the process, Laura and Diego collide with some dark truths that expose an intricate web of corporate conspiracy, political corruption, and the relentless devastation of their cherished environment.

Threading through this narrative is a heartwarming human drama and intricate character development. From dealing with a personal loss and grappling with feelings of guilt, and revenge, to maintaining resilience against mounting odds, the characters' journeys are raw and compelling.

A significant part of Cromo’s charm lies in its rich cinematography. The series jumps from the bustling cityscapes of Buenos Aires to the lush, breathtaking landscapes of Argentinian provinces such as Entre Ríos and Corrientes. The visual spectacle of these landscapes, soaked in mesmerizing hues, creates an atmospheric layer to the narrative and firmly establishes the thematic premise of environmental preservation.

Casting is another strength of the series, with the acting performances reviving the thought-provoking narrative. Emilia Attias, in her role as Laura, and Gerardo Romano, who plays Diego, shine in their portrayals, gripping the audience with their compelling acting. Another key character is biologist Sabina played by German Palacios, whose performance contributes to the real, relatable, and gritty undertone of the series.

Cromo isn't just a crime-drama; it's much more, breaking through the genre boundaries and offering an untraditional take on usual narratives. The creator, Lucia Puenzo, daringly takes on the issues of environmental degradation, corporate greed, political corruption on top of a murder mystery and through the lens of compelling human stories. Viewers are slowly drawn into this whirlpool of thrilling crime, layered human emotions, and intense environmental themes.

To complement the audio-visual feast, the series is enhanced by an immersive sound and music design. The chilling score and the unique cacophony of natural sounds of the Argentinian wetlands offer an unseen character to the series, making the narrative more tangible and intense for the viewers.

In conclusion, Cromo is not a typical crime drama series. It vividly portrays the darker side of human endeavors and environmental exploitation, stirring a discourse that remains relevant in our contemporary world. While the series appeals to the curious mind with its cleverly-crafted storyline and thrilling suspense, it also tugs at our conscience by making us think about the dire consequences of our actions on the environment. It's a show that captivates us, not just for its thrilling story and engaging characters, but for the vital message that it carries.