Raquel Murillo (Lisbon) (Character) - Money Heist

Introduction

Raquel Murillo, later known by the codename Lisbon, is a pivotal and complex character in the Netflix series Money Heist and its spin-off Berlin. Portrayed by Itziar Ituño, Raquel is initially introduced as an inspector for the National Police Corps, tasked with negotiating with the robbers during the heist at the Royal Mint of Spain. Her character embodies a rich blend of strength, vulnerability, and transformation, making her one of the most compelling and relatable characters in the series.

Raquel’s origins and backstory are marked by her professional excellence and personal struggles. She is a focused, brilliant, and persistent police officer who faces significant disrespect and criticism from her male colleagues, particularly after she files abusive charges against her ex-husband, a fellow detective ^[3].

Her significance in the series extends beyond her initial role as a negotiator. Raquel’s journey is deeply intertwined with the broader themes of the show, including love, loyalty, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. Her character draws inspiration from strong female figures in literature and media, such as Clarice Starling from The Silence of the Lambs, highlighting her as a powerful and sensitive woman in a predominantly male-dominated world ^[1].

Role in the Series

Raquel Murillo’s storyline in Money Heist is a dynamic and evolving arc that spans multiple seasons. Initially, she is the lead negotiator during the Royal Mint heist, where she engages in a cat-and-mouse game with the Professor, the mastermind behind the heist. During these negotiations, she meets the Professor, who introduces himself under the alias Salvador Martín, and they develop a romantic relationship. This relationship becomes a turning point in her life, as she chooses to follow him instead of arresting him, driven by her love and the embarrassment and shunning she faces from her colleagues ^[1].

After the Royal Mint heist, Raquel leaves her life as a police inspector behind and joins the Professor in the Philippines. She adopts the codename Lisbon and becomes an integral member of the gang, participating in the planning and execution of the Bank of Spain heist. Her involvement in this heist is part of the Professor’s elaborate plan, known as "Plan Paris," which involves her being smuggled into the Bank of Spain via a military helicopter to aid the team inside ^[2].

Throughout the series, Raquel’s relationships with other characters are crucial. Her love for the Professor is a central theme, as is her bond with her daughter and mother, whom she protects and cares for deeply. Her interactions with other gang members, such as Tokyo and Nairobi, also highlight her adaptability and loyalty to the group she has come to consider her family ^[3].

Character Analysis

Raquel Murillo’s personality is multifaceted, reflecting both her professional and personal life. She is described as a "strong and powerful woman in a world of men, but also sensitive in her private life" ^[1]. Her determination and persistence are evident in her work as a police officer, where she refuses to be outsmarted by thieves or undermined by her male colleagues.

Her motivations are deeply personal, driven by a desire for love, respect, and protection for herself and her family. Her decision to leave the police force and join the gang is a testament to her willingness to take risks and challenge the status quo when she feels it is necessary. This transformation from a law enforcement officer to a member of a criminal gang makes her a compelling and relatable character, as audiences witness her growth and the complexities of her choices.

Raquel’s strengths include her intelligence, strategic thinking, and emotional resilience. However, she also has flaws, such as her vulnerability to emotional manipulation and her tendency to make decisions based on personal feelings rather than professional duty. These elements make her a well-rounded and human character, capable of evoking empathy and understanding from the audience ^[3].

Themes and Symbolism

Raquel Murillo embodies several key themes in Money Heist, including the struggle for identity, the power of love and loyalty, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. Her character symbolizes the idea that individuals can change and grow, and that sometimes, the most unexpected choices can lead to personal liberation and fulfillment.

The theme of identity is particularly significant, as Raquel transitions from being a police inspector to a member of a criminal gang. This transformation is symbolized by her adoption of the codename Lisbon, which represents her new identity and her commitment to the group ^[1].

The show also explores the theme of love and loyalty through Raquel’s relationship with the Professor. Their love story is portrayed as powerful and romantic, highlighting the idea that love can transcend conventional boundaries and expectations ^[1].

Cultural Impact

Raquel Murillo has had a significant cultural impact, particularly among fans of Money Heist. Her character has been praised for its complexity and depth, making her one of the most beloved and relatable characters in the series. The portrayal of a strong, independent woman who challenges societal norms has resonated with audiences worldwide.

In adaptations and spin-offs, Raquel’s character continues to be central, reflecting her enduring appeal. Her influence on popular culture is evident in the way she has inspired discussions about female empowerment, the morality of crime, and the human condition.

Critical Reception

Critics and audiences have generally praised Raquel Murillo’s character, highlighting her compelling arc and the nuanced performance by Itziar Ituño. The character’s development from a police inspector to a gang member has been praised for its realism and emotional depth.

However, some critics have noted the controversy surrounding her transition, questioning the moral implications of her choices. Despite these varying interpretations, Raquel’s character remains a focal point of discussion and analysis, underscoring her significance in the series.

Legacy

Raquel Murillo’s legacy in Money Heist is profound, reflecting her enduring appeal and relevance in contemporary discussions. Her character has inspired other works and character archetypes, particularly in the realm of crime dramas and thrillers.

Her story serves as a reminder that characters can evolve and grow in unexpected ways, and that the lines between right and wrong are often blurred. As a cultural icon, Raquel Murillo continues to influence how audiences perceive strong female characters and the complexities of human relationships.