Somos.

Somos. is a gripping, inclusive, and dramatic series developed by Netflix, first aired in 2021, that dives deep into the dynamics of a small Mexican town wrestling against the ominous shadow of the growing drug trade. The story is grounded in reality and inspired by the true stories of the victims of a horrific drug-related massacre that occurred in Allende, Mexico, back in 2011. Yet, this series humanely and empathetically goes beyond the tabloid-style narratives often associated with the Mexican drug trade, carefully painting a deliberate and nuanced picture of the community and its people, before, during and after the tragic event that forever changes their lives.

The storytelling format of Somos. uniquely differs from other shows in the crime and drama genre in that it doesn't fixate on exploring the intricate views of a singular protagonist, but instead gives viewers a choric perspective of an entire community. Sketched in the narrative are the lives of a wide range of characters: ranchers, pharmacists, priests, and drug traffickers, each adding a complex layer to the wider narrative. This multi-faceted approach provides an intricate panorama of the sociocultural realities that connect and impact every character within the town.

At the center of Somos. is James Schamus, a renowned Oscar-nominated screenwriter turned showrunner, making his television debut with this series. Schamus's extensive knowledge in making profound narratives comes to the forefront in this series, as he meticulously weaves together the narrative threads encompassing the lives of various characters in the town of Allende. Schamus's storytelling, grounded in the grit and resilience of a community besieged by forces beyond its control, is both intimate and impactful, placing the lived human experience at the core of the narrative.

The storytelling in Somos. is not only about the characters and their personal lives, but also about their interpersonal relationships, and how their community ties are tested when faced with circumstances beyond their control. The narrative structure of the series allows you to walk in the shoes of a varied cast of characters, each grappling with their individual life scenarios, their dreams, their struggles, and ultimately their roles within a community that is about to face a horrifying devastation.

In terms of casting, Somos. features an ensemble of predominantly Mexican actors who deftly bring to life the complex characters and their intertwined stories. From loved and respected community members to low-level drug traffickers struggling keep their heads above water, each character and performance add depth and authenticity to the narrative. Their performances build a grounded and believable depiction of a community, capturing not only collective grief in the face of tragedy but also the humanity, love, resilience, and spirit that refuses to be entirely defeated.

The series is visually stunning, too. Against the backdrop of violence and adversity, the beautiful landscapes, town visuals, and everyday realities in the streets, homes, and places of work of Allende are authentically reproduced, allowing viewers to delve deeper into the story and connect further with the characters and the town they call home.

Somos. is a series that doesn't shy away from presenting the harsh realities of the drug trade and its impact on an innocent town, but does so in a way that steadfastly remains focused on the human stories at its core. Its narrative structure, the character arcs, the performances, and the authentic representation of a community grappling in the face of adversity, make it must-see viewing, offering viewers a different and broader perspective on the repercussions of the international drug trade.

In essence, Somos. is a heartfelt tribute to the survivors of the Allende Massacre; a nod to their courage, strength, and the enduring spirit of community. It's a reminder that behind the statistical data of drug-related violence, there are real people with dreams, hopes, and lives that matter. It's more than just a dramatic television series - it's a poignant and profound exploration of humanity against a backdrop of widespread violence and despair. Through Somos., the stories of the people of Allende find a voice that cries out for justice and sends out a powerful message: that we will not forget, that we remember, that Somos (We are).