Berlin Series Review

 Berlin is a spin-off of the popular Netflix show Money Heist, focusing on the charismatic and psychopathic thief Berlin (Pedro Alonso) and his crew of expert criminals. The series is set before the events of Money Heist, when Berlin was in his prime and planning one of his most ambitious heists ever: stealing 44 million euros worth of jewels from 34 different European cities in one night.

The Good

• The series is a light-hearted and entertaining heist thriller, with plenty of action, humor, and romance. Fans of Money Heist will enjoy seeing Berlin in his glory days, as well as some familiar faces like Alicia Sierra (Najwa Nimri) and the Professor (Álvaro Morte) in cameo appearances.
• The production value is high, with stunning locations, costumes, and cinematography. The series captures the charm and elegance of Paris, where most of the story takes place, as well as the dark and mysterious atmosphere of the catacombs, where the heist is executed.
• The cast is excellent, especially Pedro Alonso, who delivers a charismatic and nuanced performance as Berlin, a complex and contradictory character who can be charming, ruthless, romantic, and sadistic at the same time. The chemistry between him and his co-stars, especially Michelle Jenner as Keila, his shy and brilliant partner in crime, is palpable and engaging.

The Bad

• The series is not very original or innovative, as it follows a predictable and formulaic plot that borrows heavily from Money Heist and other heist movies. The twists and turns are not very surprising or satisfying, and the stakes are not very high or clear.
• The series is not very deep or meaningful, as it does not explore the motivations, backgrounds, or personalities of the characters in depth. The series is more about the style than the substance, and does not offer much insight or commentary on the themes of crime, justice, morality, or love .
• The series is not very necessary or justified, as it does not add much value or relevance to the Money Heist universe. The series feels like a cash-grab and a fan-service, rather than a creative and artistic endeavor. The series does not explain or enhance the character of Berlin, but rather repeats and dilutes his essence.

The Verdict

Berlin is a fun and enjoyable watch for fans of Money Heist and heist thrillers, but it is not a must-see or a masterpiece. The series is a decent and diverting spin-off, but it does not live up to the expectations or the potential of its premise and protagonist. The series is more of a guilty pleasure than a quality product.

Rating: 6/10