Netflix

Ángel Rubio

Ángel Rubio: A Detailed Analysis of the Money Heist Character

Introduction

Ángel Rubio, portrayed by Fernando Soto, is a significant character in the Netflix series Money Heist, although his role is often overshadowed by the more central figures of the narrative. As a deputy inspector and Raquel Murillo’s (Lisbon) second-in-command, Ángel plays a crucial part in the investigative efforts against the Professor’s heists. This section will provide an overview of Ángel’s origins, backstory, defining traits, and his role within the series.

Ángel Rubio is introduced as a diligent and somewhat traditional law enforcement officer, working closely with Inspector Raquel Murillo during the Royal Mint of Spain heist. His character is rooted in the conventional police procedural genre, but his interactions and decisions often highlight the complexities and personal biases that can influence law enforcement actions. Despite his relatively minor role compared to other characters, Ángel’s presence underscores the internal conflicts and personal relationships within the police force, adding depth to the narrative.

Role in the Series

Ángel Rubio’s storyline is intricately woven into the broader plot of Money Heist, particularly during the first two seasons. He is initially depicted as a loyal and hardworking deputy inspector who assists Raquel in her investigation of the Royal Mint heist. However, his character becomes more nuanced as the series progresses.

One of the key events involving Ángel is his suspicion of Raquel’s new relationship with Salvador "Salva" Martín, aka the Professor. This suspicion stems from both professional and personal reasons, as Ángel has romantic feelings for Raquel and is also skeptical of Salva’s true identity [2].

Ángel’s investigative efforts lead him to track down Salva and uncover evidence that links him to the heist. He steals a teaspoon with Salva’s fingerprints and has it tested, confirming his suspicions. However, this discovery ultimately leads to Raquel being taken off the case and considered an accomplice by her colleagues, highlighting the personal and professional risks Ángel’s actions entail [2].

Throughout the series, Ángel continues to play a role in the police’s efforts to apprehend the gang, though his contributions are often overshadowed by the more dramatic and intense actions of other characters. His character serves as a reminder of the ongoing cat-and-mouse game between the police and the robbers, even if he is not always at the forefront of these events.

Character Analysis

Ángel Rubio’s personality is characterized by his dedication to his job and his personal biases. He is a traditionalist who follows the rules and is deeply committed to solving the case. However, his personal feelings, particularly his unrequited love for Raquel, often cloud his judgment and influence his decisions.

One of Ángel’s significant flaws is his inability to see beyond his own emotions and biases. This is evident in his handling of Raquel’s relationship with the Professor, where his jealousy and suspicion lead to consequences that affect both his professional and personal life. Despite this, Ángel remains a well-intentioned character who is driven by a desire to do what he believes is right, even if his methods are sometimes misguided.

Ángel’s development throughout the series is somewhat limited compared to other characters. He does not undergo a significant transformation or face the same level of personal growth as characters like Raquel or Alicia Sierra. Instead, he remains a consistent figure in the background, providing a contrast to the more dynamic and evolving characters at the center of the narrative.

Themes and Symbolism

Ángel Rubio embodies several themes that are central to Money Heist. One of the most prominent is the theme of loyalty and betrayal. Ángel’s actions, particularly his decision to investigate Raquel’s relationship with the Professor, highlight the complexities of loyalty within both personal and professional contexts. His character shows how loyalty can sometimes be misguided and lead to unintended consequences.

Another theme Ángel represents is the struggle between personal and professional life. His unrequited love for Raquel and his subsequent actions demonstrate how personal feelings can interfere with professional duties, leading to conflicts and complications.

Ángel also symbolizes the traditional and often rigid structure of law enforcement. His adherence to the rules and his skepticism towards unconventional methods contrast with the innovative and daring approach of the Professor and his gang. This contrast underscores the broader theme of the series: the clash between established authority and those who challenge it.

Cultural Impact

Ángel Rubio’s cultural impact is relatively subtle compared to the more central characters of the series. However, his character contributes to the broader cultural discussion about law enforcement and personal relationships within professional settings.

Fans of the series have generally viewed Ángel as a necessary but not particularly compelling character. His role is seen as important for the plot, but he does not evoke the same level of emotional investment as characters like Tokyo, the Professor, or Alicia Sierra.

In terms of adaptations or spin-offs, Ángel’s character has not been a focal point. His presence is more about supporting the main narrative rather than driving it forward.

Critical Reception

Critics and audiences have viewed Ángel Rubio with mixed reactions. Some have praised his character for adding depth to the police side of the narrative, highlighting the internal conflicts and personal biases that can affect law enforcement actions. Others have found his character somewhat one-dimensional and lacking in the complexity and development seen in other characters.

One criticism is that Ángel’s character feels somewhat interchangeable with other police officers, particularly in later seasons. His role becomes more peripheral, and his actions do not significantly impact the main plot twists or character arcs [1].

Despite this, Ángel’s character serves a purpose in the narrative, providing a grounded and traditional perspective that contrasts with the more unconventional and dynamic characters of the series.

Legacy

Ángel Rubio’s legacy in Money Heist is that of a supporting character who adds nuance to the police side of the story. While he may not be as memorable or impactful as other characters, his presence is crucial for the overall balance of the narrative.

His character archetype—the dedicated but personally biased law enforcement officer—has been seen in various other TV shows and films. Ángel Rubio’s portrayal contributes to a broader understanding of how personal relationships and biases can influence professional actions, a theme that continues to be relevant in contemporary media.

In conclusion, Ángel Rubio is a character who, while not central to the main plot, plays a significant role in the broader narrative of Money Heist. His story highlights the complexities of law enforcement and personal relationships, adding depth to the series.

References

  1. https://screenrant.com/money-heist-characters-who-got-fitting-endings-vs-deserved-more/
  2. https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/drama/money-heist-full-recap/
  3. https://anjalisk96.wordpress.com/2021/10/24/explore-with-me-money-heist-part-1-ep-2-recap-season-1/
  4. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Money_Heist
  5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Money_Heist_episodes
Nik Faris

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