Malaka

Malaka is a gripping crime thriller series premiered on TVE in 2019. The show's title, 'Malaka,' is derived from the Costa del Sol district in Málaga, Spain, where the story takes place. The series presents a refreshing perspective on crime drama and is known for its unique storytelling narrative, featuring a mixture of local humor and broken law enforcement department scene.

Produced by Globomedia and created by Samuel Pinazo and Daniel Corpas, Malaka is set against the backdrop of drug trafficking in Andalusia. The plot unravels the hidden felonious activities deeply ingrained in the society seemingly overshadowed by the beautiful vacation spots in Costa del Sol. This contrast is a riveting feature of the series that captures the attention of viewers.

The story is marked by the disappearance of a young woman named Noelia Castañeda. This event spins the tranquil city into a whirlpool of crime syndicate, secrecy, and political corruption. The city stands to lose its peace, and the never-before-seen underground world comes to light.

Two very different detectives - Darío Arjona and Blanca Gámez - take on the assignment to unravel the mystery surrounding Noelia's disappearance. They are played by actors Salva Reina and Maggie Civantos, known for their exceptional performances in previous roles. Their performances in Malaka are no exception. They bring a touch of authenticity to their characters.

Darío Arjona is a street-smart, bullish, and unabashed detective who has a robust local network. He is loosely tethered to the ideals of law enforcement and is not afraid of bending them to serve justice. This trait often brings him into conflict with his superiors. The local folks respect him, while his superiors dread him.

Blanca Gámez, the other protagonist, is a by-the-book detective who strictly adheres to the law. She has recently moved to Málaga from Madrid. Unlike Darío, Blanca has a strongly principled and straightforward approach towards her duty as a law enforcement agent. She is more organized and methodical, although often struggles with the local dynamics of Andalusia. Blanca’s character offers a distinct contrast against the backdropped chaos and uncertainty.

The dynamic duo must get past their differences and work together to pursue the case. As they dig deeper, twisted plotlines uncover the resilient corruption and the grim side of the city. These grim sides involve unscrupulous politicians and merciless drug lords leading to a dramatic sequence of revelation elements that keep the audience at the edge of their seats.

Apart from the leading characters, Malaka boasts a well-rounded supporting cast that helps drive the plot. The performance by well-known actors gives the show a depth that makes it more engaging for the viewers. Sharp dialogues, intense drama, and emotional sequences are then balanced with scenes of the picturesque seaside city of Málaga, which breaks the monotony and provides the audience with a breather.

The series is impeccably photographed with a rich aesthetic that enhances the storytelling and keeps viewers visually engaged. The cinematography helps to feature the unique attraction of Málaga, marking a striking difference from the city's dark underbelly. The intricate details of Andalusian culture and the back story, which is woven into the plot, add another layer of interest for audiences.

Besides, Malaka features an excellent selection of soundtracks that plays an essential role in setting the series' mood and intensity. The choice of music is powerful and complements the gritty narrative.

Malaka, although it represents a localized setting and plot, presents universal themes like power, crime, corruption, loyalty, and personal dilemma. It provides a comprehensive overview of the human condition, embedded in a criminal milieu. The series has surprised the viewers with its unpredictability, keeping them hooked till the end of each episode to find out what happens next. Overall, it's a remarkable and engaging series that keeps viewers interested and invested throughout its run time.