There was a time when Latino TV shows barely got the exposure they deserved in mainstream media. Despite having compelling storylines, well-rounded characters, and all the makings of a great TV show, they needed to be properly received. The main reason was the language barrier and the need for a dedicated mainstream platform.
However, the rise of streaming culture has diminished both reasons. Today, Latin America and Spain are globally recognized categories, with TV shows and movies available in a variety of languages and subtitles. Streaming channels and websites are also the reason why Latin American and Spanish shows like The House of Papel, El ChapoAnd Drug can reach a wider audience and be recognized globally.
Latin American and Spanish genres are a treasure trove of TV shows in a variety of genres such as thrillers, romances, crime, comedies, etc. Furthermore, the fact that some Latino perspectives and thematic styles have now become globally recognized is a testament to the global success of Spanish TV shows.
A little different from mainstream Spanish TV, we’ve compiled a list of Spanish gems worth checking out if you’re up for it.
Someone Must Die (Someone Must Die) 2020
This is a fascinating film as a limited series in the horror genre. Set in Spain in the 1950s, the film tells the story of a very conservative family that values appearances, but each member is unwilling to give up their true self.
Gabino reunites with his family after 10 years only to discover that he is about to marry Cayetana. He also brings home his friend, who has her own secrets. The combination of an arranged marriage, a scandalous love affair, and a rumor is what will keep you glued to your couch until the final episode.
Cuatro estaciones en La Habana (Four Seasons in Havana) 2016
Also a miniseries, this show has 4 episodes and a thrilling storyline. It follows two detectives in Havana, Mario Conde and Manolo Palacios, who work together to solve cases. The show is based on the book ‘Havana Quartet‘ by Leonardo Padura and presents several intriguing cases with multiple suspects.
The main characters are shown to have their own antics, which will make you develop a love-hate relationship with them, especially Conde. However, they are good at what they do, which makes the four episodes all the more engaging.
Valeria – 2020
Valeria is a comedy television show about a writer going through a marital crisis. It is based on the book series In Valeria’s Shoes by Elísabet Benavent and set in Madrid. Valeria sets out on a journey to find out what is missing in her work and her marriage. She is supported along the way by her group of girlfriends Carmen, Lola and Nerea, as she finds herself caught up in an interesting love triangle.
The perfect setting to watch this show is a dimly lit room where you’re curled up on the couch with a heavy blanket, a bundle of by la Rosa Mazapan, and one essential element—a reliable cable connection. We recommend checking out Optimum en español TV packages, where you can get Valeria on demand and watch it uninterrupted along with all the other shows on this list.
Perdida (Stolen) 2020
Crime, mystery and horror are extremely popular in the area. As such, most of our recommendations come from these genres. Another horror series, this show has a similar but more intense plot as Jason Statham Take.
A mysterious girl goes missing from a beach, and her parents set out to find her at all costs. The story spans several years and feels realistic. The father, Antonio, is so determined to solve the mystery that he is willing to go to jail because he believes he will find the answers in a Colombian prison.
Las Chicas del Cable (Cable Girls) 2017
This is my favorite movie, with an IMDb rating of 7.5. The Cable Cars is a five-season Spanish television series. Set in the 1920s, when Madrid was just getting a taste of modern telecommunications, the series follows the lives of four girls as they begin work as telephone operators.
As the first in their families to work in an office, each character has their own reasons for working in the company. They form a close bond as they work together and face the social challenges of being a working woman.
Velvet Galleries (Velvet) 2014
A romantic drama, this film stars a wealthy (and melancholy?) heir to a prestigious Spanish fashion house who falls in love with a poor seamstress. Their story is filled with love, jealousy, drama, and an absurd amount of money. Ana and Alberto encounter a love that only happens once in a lifetime while they navigate the complications that arise from their unlikely relationship.
The shows mentioned on the list are just the tip of the iceberg. Spanish and Latin American TV shows are known for their cultural vibrancy and strong efforts to break stereotypes while keeping viewers hooked until the end.
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We hope you have a list of things to watch for the long summer ahead. If you have any suggestions for similar shows, please share them with us in the comments below.
