Season 1 - Episode 2 - Money Heist

Introduction

Background and Production History

"Money Heist" (Spanish: "La casa de papel"), created by Álex Pina, is a Spanish heist crime drama television series that has garnered global attention for its intricate plot, complex characters, and cultural significance. Season 1, which includes Episode 2, was initially broadcast on the Spanish network Antena 3 from May 2, 2017, to November 23, 2017. The series was later acquired by Netflix, which re-cut the episodes and released them worldwide starting from December 20, 2017^[1].

The creative team behind "Money Heist" includes director Jesús Colmenar, who directed several episodes, and writers such as Álex Pina and Esther Martínez Lobato. The production was handled by Vancouver Media and Atresmedia^[1].

Key Creative Figures

Álex Pina, the creator of the series, is a pivotal figure in its success. His vision of a heist story told from a unique, Spanish perspective set the series apart from other heist dramas. The cast, including Álvaro Morte as the Professor and Úrsula Corberó as Tokyo, brought depth and complexity to the characters^[1].

Initial Release and Genre Significance

Season 1, Episode 2 of "Money Heist" was part of the initial run on Antena 3 and later re-released on Netflix. This episode, like the rest of the series, subverts traditional heist genre conventions by incorporating a strong Spanish identity, a female narrative perspective through Tokyo, and a blend of emotional dynamics, comedy, and intense plot twists^[1].

Plot Summary

Main Storyline

Episode 2 of Season 1 continues the multi-day assault on the Royal Mint of Spain, a central plot point of the series. The story unfolds with the robbers, dressed in red jumpsuits and Salvador Dalí masks, inside the Mint, where they have taken 67 hostages. The team, led by the enigmatic Professor from an external location, is tasked with printing and escaping with €984 million.

Inside the Mint, the robbers face numerous challenges, including uncooperative hostages, internal conflicts, and the constant threat of police intervention. Nairobi assigns the hostages into workgroups to ensure the smooth operation of the money-printing machines. Meanwhile, outside the Mint, Inspector Raquel Murillo of the National Police Corps negotiates with the Professor, who is using the alias "Salva" in his interactions with her^[1].

Key Events and Characters

A critical event in Episode 2 involves the police’s attempt to infiltrate the Mint. Colonel Prieto and his team approach the bank, but their mission is aborted after Alison Parker, a hostage, alerts the police and the media about the situation through a radio program. This twist adds to the tension and complexity of the heist, highlighting the robbers’ meticulous planning and the police’s desperate attempts to intervene^[5].

The episode also delves into the personal relationships among the characters, particularly the developing romance between Denver, one of the robbers, and Mónica Gaztambide, a hostage. This subplot adds an emotional layer to the narrative, contrasting with the high-stakes heist^[1].

Themes and Symbolism

Central Themes

"Money Heist" explores several central themes, including rebellion against capitalism, the power of unity and teamwork, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. The heist itself is often seen as a form of resistance against the economic injustices faced by the Spanish people, particularly in the aftermath of the 2007-2008 financial crisis^[1].

Symbolic Elements

The use of red jumpsuits and Salvador Dalí masks is symbolic, representing the robbers’ unity and anonymity. The masks, in particular, serve as a visual motif that distinguishes the robbers from their hostages and the police, while also paying homage to Spanish culture^[1].

The song "Bella Ciao," which becomes a recurring theme in the series, is another symbolic element. This Italian partisan song from World War II represents anti-fascism, resistance, and self-sacrifice, aligning with the Professor’s motives of seeking justice rather than mere greed^[2].

Cultural Impact

Reception and Influence

Upon its release, "Money Heist" garnered significant attention globally, especially after its move to Netflix. The series became a cultural phenomenon, with its iconic red jumpsuits and Dalí masks being replicated in various forms of media and real-life events. The show’s influence extended to social media, where fans shared images and videos of themselves dressed in the robbers’ outfits. The series also inspired real-world protests and was referenced in other TV shows and media, such as the South Korean series "Squid Game"^[1].

The show’s impact was so profound that it led to the creation of a documentary, "Money Heist: The Phenomenon," which explored its global success and cultural significance. The series was also celebrated with statues of the robbers at the Musée Grévin in Paris and was featured in various advertising campaigns and sports events^[1].

Critical Reception

Initial Response

The initial response to "Money Heist" was mixed but generally positive. Critics praised the series for its subversion of the heist genre, its engaging characters, and its tense plot twists. Adrian Hennigan of "Haaretz" described the series as a "twisty thriller" driven by its ingenious plot and engaging characters^[1].

However, not all reviews were positive. Pauline Bock of the "New Statesman" criticized the series for its plot holes, clichéd slow-motions, and gratuitous sex scenes. Despite these criticisms, the series maintained a strong following and received widespread acclaim for its unique storytelling and cultural relevance^[1].

Controversies and Interpretations

The series also faced controversies, particularly regarding its influence on real-life crimes. In several incidents, real robbers wore the show’s iconic red costumes and Dalí masks, leading to security concerns and bans on the costumes at certain events^[1].

Critics and scholars have interpreted the series in various ways, with some seeing it as an allegory of rebellion against capitalism and others viewing it as a mere entertainment with deeper themes. The show’s resonance with international audiences, particularly in Mediterranean Europe and Latin America, has been attributed to its depiction of social and economic tensions and its offer of a utopian escape^[1].

Legacy

Enduring Relevance

"Money Heist" continues to be a significant cultural and cinematic phenomenon. Its influence on television and film is evident in its innovative storytelling, complex characters, and the way it blends genres. The series has inspired new generations of filmmakers and writers, particularly in the Spanish-speaking world, to produce content that reflects local sensibilities and global appeal.

The show’s legacy extends beyond its entertainment value; it has become a symbol of Spanish media’s ability to compete on a global stage. The series has also sparked discussions about economic justice, resistance, and the human condition, making it a timeless piece of television that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide^[1].

Season 1 – Episode 2