'The Great Heist' aka 'El Robo Del Siglo' Review: Netflix's Colombian true crime show is your next binge watch
No spoilers for 'The Great Heist' aka 'El Robo Del Siglo'
Netflix has been killing it recently with its international releases, and 'The Great Heist' aka 'El Robo Del Siglo' is no exception. Inspired by true events, the Colombian thriller paced its chronicling of the real-life event that took place in 1994 where Colombia's Bank of the Republic suffered at the hands of a band of thieves. Known as the "robbery of the century", the suspense of the series keeps viewers on their toes.
If you enjoyed shows like 'Money Heist', then 'The Great Heist' should definitely be your next binge-worthy watch. The six episodes are excellent and keep you hooked throughout. From its action-packed drama to its undeniably conniving characters, the thrilling narrative would be the best reason to watch the series.
The limited series definitely has an alluring storyline with the beginning giving us 'Breaking Bad' vibes, with Roberto Lozano aka Chayo playing the first season's Heisenberg. The robbing of the bank in Valledupar initially came from a desperate attempt for money but what follows is an intricate plan to make sure money was stolen from under the noses of officials. Themes of criminality and fraud are heavy. Even though we've seen this "ambitious operation" in past productions, it somehow reels you in from the very beginning.
The actors involved in this project are excellent in their craft, with expressions that keep you guessing and that "oomph" we all look for to keep a storyline interesting. Each with nicknames, the band of thieves are not only the center of attention but probably house the best characters on the show. Interestingly enough, the series also has themes such as sickness, family and poverty intertwined with its main narrative which we think gives more relatable aspects to the episodes. The recruitment of the band of thieves is the most interesting part of the series, just like many suspect it would be. Since the series is based on true live events, the excitement of what's going to happen next is replaced by "how" are things going to unfold.
As for the direction, we wouldn't say it outshined the script but it was well put together. The episodes have intense progression, and most of the focus is obviously the robbery - it's hard to take your mind off that. Working with thieves is an intricate job while being a thief requires you to be a con man in all aspects of your life. The underground world comes with a price, and that is clearly exhibited in the series, but some people will go to great lengths to protect their pride and wealth. There is no doubt, by the way, that Chayo by far is our favorite character — a little reckless and determined yet shaky confidence, the con man is a thieves dream.
Overall, 'The Great Heist' is an entertaining watch, and most, we suspect, will finish all six episodes in one sitting. With the question of "how will they pull this off?" running though your mind from the first 30 minutes of episode one, you won't have any other choice. All six episodes of 'The Great Heist' are now available to stream on Netflix.