El Presidente

El Presidente is an engaging and exciting Amazon original series that premiered in 2020. Inspired by the true events surrounding the "FIFA Gate" corruption scandal in 2015, the series is a football drama that offers a unique blend of dark humour and social commentary. Excelling in narrative, the series gives a fictionalized companion to the continuing real-world investigation, providing viewers with a rare peek into the politics and power dynamics of football administration on a global scale.

The storyline primarily revolves around the journey of Sergio Jadue, the unassuming and overlooked president of a small Chilean football club who ascends the ranks to become a key player in a $150 million bribery conspiracy. Starting as an underdog story of a local club president, the plot develops into an international tale of intrigue, leveraging the context of one of the world's most popular sports.

Adding to the thrill and suspense, El Presidente also includes dramatized versions of some of FIFA's most influential figures who were implicated in this scandal. The series is skillfully infused with captivating plotlines that serve as an allegorical playground for exploring themes of corruption, greed, ambition, and the human capacity for self-deception.

The chronological narrative in El Presidente presents a cohesive chronicle using a mix of multiple timelines. Integrating flashbacks and fairly comical direct addresses to the audience, the series maintains a dynamic narrative flow filled with suspense and satirical moments. This unique combination allows it to address serious real-world issues while delivering plenty of entertaining beats.

As for the characters, El Presidente does a tremendous job in humanizing them, even as it unveils their less admirable attributes. Sergio Jadue, portrayed by Karla Souza, is the perfect protagonist for this story. His character arc journeys from naivety and ambition to greed, guilt, and eventual downfall, a transformation that resonated well with viewers. The secondary characters also have their moments in the spotlight, providing intriguing insights into the systemic corruption within the football world.

The production values of El Presidente are noteworthy. This ten-part series has been shot across Latin America, the U.S., and Europe, reflecting the global nature of the scandal. It boasts exquisite cinematography, capturing the varied locations beautifully, while the excellent production design effectively captures the opulence of the FIFA lifestyle. The pulsating background score further adds a unique touch to the storytelling, maintaining the suspense and drama.

One of the many aspects that set El Presidente apart from other sports dramas is its commitment to portraying the interconnectedness of global football politics. By focusing on the Latin American perspective, the series reveals how power and money can disrupt even the most beloved and popular sports, leading to far-reaching consequences.

El Presidente is not just a series about a football corruption scandal; it is an exploration into the human psyche. It delves into the motivations behind these controversial decisions and the implications they have on the lives of everyone involved. This soul-searching angle intensifies as the series progresses, allowing viewers to examine the complexities and ambiguities of human nature.

Created by Oscar-winning director Armando Bo, the show balances robust storytelling with tight plot structures and well-rounded character arcs. The series also features credible performances from a strong ensemble cast, who, coupled with thoughtful screenplay and dialogue, contribute to an engaging and immersive viewing experience.

In its essence, El Presidente serves as a reminder of the ubiquitous nature of corruption in powerful institutions, revealing that even the most beloved and globally revered sports are not immune to it. The show, however, manages to maintain its connection with viewers as it does not alienate those unfamiliar with football. It is, after all, more about the men and women behind the scenes of this popular sport, their ambitions, their downfall, and the deceptiveness of appearances.

El Presidente is a compelling and thought-provoking watch, using the lens of sport to explore the intricate web of power, corruption, and human frailty. Through its intricacy and realism, this vibrant series has emerged as a must-watch for both football fanatics and drama enthusiasts alike. With its unique blend of scandal, human emotion, and dark humor, El Presidente is set to leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.