'The Asunta Case' Ending Explained: Inside the clouded verdict of Rosario Porto and Alfonso Basterra's fate
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Contains spoilers for 'The Asunta Case'
GALICIA, SPAIN: Netflix's gripping Spanish crime drama, 'The Asunta Case' (El caso Asunta), captivated audiences soon after its release on April 26, 2024. Based on the real-life murder of Asunta Yong Fang Basterra Porto, the series delves into the complexities surrounding this tragic event.
Creators Ramón Campos, Jon de la Cuesta, and Gema R. Neira weave a narrative that explores the events leading up to the crime, the subsequent investigation, and the trial that left viewers with more questions than answers.
Netflix's 'The Asunta Case' portrays a bit of a fictionalized account of the tragic death of Asunta Basterra. While the real-life motives behind the crime remain unclear, the series offers a possible explanation centered around Rosario Porto's mental state and deteriorating relationship.
The series hints at a history of mental illness and suicidal ideation, potentially amplifying these feelings. First, let's delve into the two major theories featured in the Netflix series.
Rosario drugging Asunta in 'The Asunta Case'
According to the series, Rosario administered small doses of lorazepam to Asunta for months. This, alongside the alleged break-in attempt, suggests a potential initial attempt to harm Asunta, possibly fueled by a desire to take her own life and not leave her daughter alone.
The series portrays a heated argument between Rosario and Alfonso after he discovers her meeting with her former lover. This confrontation, highlighting their ongoing connection through Asunta, could have cemented the idea that true separation was impossible while their daughter remained alive.
The series suggests Rosario may have spiked a drink with lorazepam, intending for both her and Asunta. However, the act could have been impulsive, leading to panic and a botched cover-up attempt.
Alfonso's bad intentions are shrouded in darkness in 'The Asunta Case'
'The Asunta Case' explores a theory suggesting Alfonso, Asunta's father, might have been the sole culprit. This theory hinges on a disturbing notion: Alfonso was sexually abusing Asunta and drugging her to maintain control.
The series portrays a motive fueled by paranoia – a fear of Asunta exposing him. However, this theory remains vague, failing to explain Rosario's role or her unwavering defense of Alfonso despite their strained relationship.
An alternate explanation suggests Rosario, aware of the abuse, killed Asunta to protect her daughter from further harm. However, the series leans towards a different conclusion – that Rosario's mental state and the drugging of Asunta led to the tragedy, with Alfonso remaining in denial to protect his ex-wife.
"The Asunta Case" leaves the question of Alfonso's involvement unanswered. The disturbing theory of abuse and paranoia lingers, adding another layer of complexity to this heartbreaking mystery.
It's important to remember that these theories are fictionalized within the series. The true motives behind Asunta's death remain undetermined.
How the court sealed the Asunta's parents' fate in 'The Asunta Case'
By the time 'The Asunta Case' reaches its courtroom climax, a cloud of media frenzy hangs heavy in the air. The series portrays investigating Judge Luis Malvar leaking confidential details to the press, swaying public opinion, and potentially influencing the jury before they even hear the full case.
This media blitz could have significantly prejudiced the jury against Rosario and Alfonso. The prosecution introduces Laura Prieto Iglesias, a witness who claims to have seen Asunta with Alfonso on the day of her disappearance.
Alfonso's claim and traffic camera footage contradict Laura's claims. Additionally, Laura doesn't mention any signs of heavy drugging, which the autopsy confirms Asunta was under at the time. Rosario's lawyer highlights the shoddy police investigation and dubious evidence. However, a leaked audio recording from the parents' jail cell casts a dark shadow.
The series suggests the recording implied Alfonso's potential pedophilia and Rosario's complicity, though its true content remains unclear. This unsubstantiated implication seems to cloud the jury's judgment, overshadowing any reasonable doubt.
Unanswered questions and a haunting verdict
Additionally, Rosario also changed her story when she realized a camera on the road had captured her last moments with Asunta in the car. In court, another photo was presented showing Alfonso with his hands placed on Asunta's stomach while she was still alive.
Both Rosario and Alfonso's lawyers tried to pin the blame on each other to save their clients, even though neither of them wanted to betray the other. The jury reviewed all the evidence and announced their decision: Alfonso and Rosario were found guilty of murdering Asunta and sentenced to 18 years in prison.
The series shows that both parents appealed the verdict, but lost. Also, Rosario, who had tried to take her own life before, ended up taking her life in prison.
'The Asunta Case' leaves us wondering who truly killed Asunta. The trial might not have been fair because of media leaks and exaggerated evidence. The show makes us question whether Alfonso and Rosario got what they deserved.
'The Asunta Case' is available for streaming on Netflix