‘Griselda’ follows thrilling plot featuring phenomenal acting, despite minor inaccuracies 

By George Kilroy

Staff Writer

Released on Jan. 25, “Griselda” is a captivating thriller filled with horrifying crime and murders, keeps viewers on the edges of their seats. 

“Griselda” is based off of the life of notorious Colombian drug lord Griselda Blanco, who made millions of dollars per month selling cocaine from the 1970s to the early 2000s’. The action starts promptly, as the show begins with Griselda fleeing from Colombia to Miami to escape her husband. Things start to go south in Miami as she becomes paranoid that her clients will betray her and murders anyone she believes will interfere with her illegal schemes.

The cast features an incredible array of Latin actors including Sofía Vergara as Griselda, Karol G as Carla, Alberto Guerra as Dario, and Vanessa Farlito as Carmen. Vergara stands out in this role; she transformed her mannerisms and voice, as well as her face with intense makeup and prosthetics to embody Griselda. The actors’ commitment to their roles gives the show an authentic feel. 

The tropical setting of the series created a vibrant and rustic feel through dim lighting and bright clothes. The story takes place in the 1970s in Miami, a setting brought to life by tinted and saturated video shots. Since the story takes place decades ago, the directors made the shrewd decision to not film in Miami because it has developed and modernized immensely in the past five decades.

The soundtrack perfectly adds to theme and time period of the show. Hits like David Bowie’s “Lets Dance” and Donna Summer’s “Hot Stuff” perfectly mirrors the party-like and chaotic mood of both the 70s and the show. Colombian music and disco hits accurately portrayed Blanco’s heritage and upbringing in Santa Marta, Colombia. 

Though the directors did their best to portray Blanco’s story accurately, Griselda’s road to insanity lacked depth and seemed rush. The storyline would have been much more authentic if the writers included more background from her childhood to allow viewers to see her entire transformation.

Though this Netflix series lacked integrity in Griselda Blanco’s story, the show is well-written and engaging. The cast is exceptionally talented and managed to bring humor to this dark storyline. “Griselda” is a captivating series that is not one to miss.