Season 1 – Episode 7 of Money Heist: A Detailed Analysis

Introduction

Season 1, Episode 7 of the Netflix series Money Heist, also known as La casa de papel, is a pivotal episode in the first part of the show. Created by Álex Pina, this Spanish heist crime drama initially aired on the Spanish network Antena 3 in 2017 before being acquired by Netflix for global distribution. The episode was part of the original 15-episode run, later re-cut into 22 shorter episodes for Netflix.

The series is notable for its complex narrative, told through a real-time-like fashion with flashbacks, time-jumps, and an unreliable narrator. This episode, in particular, stands out due to its intense plot developments and the escalating tensions within the heist.

The key creative figures behind Money Heist include Álex Pina as the creator, Jesús Colmenar and Álex Pina among the directors, and Álex Pina and Esther Martínez Lobato as writers. The production history of the series is marked by its initial success on Antena 3, which led to Netflix acquiring the rights and expanding its global reach.

Plot Summary

In Season 1, Episode 7 of Money Heist, the narrative reaches a critical point as the robbers inside the Royal Mint of Spain face numerous challenges. The episode begins with Moscow (Paco Tous) gravely injured after being shot, with three bullets in his stomach. The team, including Denver (Jaime Lorente), Nairobi (Alba Flores), and others, rush to his side and consider requesting a surgeon. However, Moscow declines, knowing his condition is terminal and that he cannot leave the Mint unarmed as demanded by the police.

As Moscow’s condition worsens, he informs the team that there are only 10 hours of digging left to complete the tunnel, and the team intensifies their efforts. Meanwhile, Nairobi pushes for the final stages of the money printing to focus on higher denominations before sealing the money.

Outside the Mint, Inspector Raquel Murillo (Itziar Ituño) gains consciousness after being knocked out by the Professor (Álvaro Morte). She finds the Professor waiting for her and, despite her anger and confusion, is unable to shoot him. The Professor leaves, and Raquel soon discovers CCTV footage of her meeting with him, leading to her detention and the initiation of a search for his hideout.

The Professor realizes that time is running out as his identity has been discovered. He urges the team to expedite their work, while also attempting to secure medical help for Moscow from the police, which proves unsuccessful.

The episode also delves into the personal dynamics among the characters. Ariadna (Clara Alvarado) expresses her disdain for Berlin (Pedro Alonso) to Monica (Esther Acebo), revealing her motivations for participating in the heist. As the episode concludes, Raquel visits Angel (Fernando Soto) and takes his badge to help her locate the Professor’s hideout, only to find Angel waking up, potentially altering the course of events.

Themes and Symbolism

This episode of Money Heist explores several central themes that are pivotal to the series. One of the primary themes is the concept of resistance and rebellion against the system. The Professor’s plan to print money rather than steal it symbolizes a form of resistance against the capitalist system, particularly in the context of Spain’s economic crisis post-2008 ^[3].

The song "Bella Ciao," which is frequently used in the series, also embodies this theme of resistance. It serves as a symbol of the partisans’ fight for freedom and is deeply personal to the Professor, who learned it from his grandfather. The song foreshadows death and underscores the risks and sacrifices involved in their rebellion ^[2].

Another significant theme is the emotional and personal toll of the heist on the characters. The relationships between the robbers and the hostages, as well as the internal conflicts within the team, add a layer of complexity to the narrative. The episode highlights the human side of the characters, particularly through Moscow’s impending death and the team’s reaction to it.

Cultural Impact

Season 1, Episode 7 of Money Heist is part of a series that has had a profound cultural impact. The show’s unique blend of heist genre subversions, strong Spanish identity, and interpersonal dramas resonated widely with audiences. The series was praised for its ability to make the heist story more relatable by giving it a Spanish perspective and telling it from a female viewpoint through Tokyo’s narration ^[3].

The show’s themes of rebellion against capitalism and economic injustice struck a chord with viewers, especially in the wake of the 2007-2008 financial crisis. Critics noted that the series served as an allegory for rebellion against a flawed system, with the Professor’s actions being seen as a form of revenge against the government and financial institutions ^[3].

Critical Reception

The critical reception of Money Heist has been largely positive, with many praising its ingenious plot, engaging characters, and tense narrative. Episode 7, in particular, was noted for its intense plot developments and the emotional depth it added to the story.

Reviewers highlighted the show’s ability to subvert the traditional heist genre by starting the heist immediately after the opening credits and by incorporating elements of telenovelas, such as passionate relationships and dramatic twists. However, some critics also pointed out plot holes, clichéd slow-motion scenes, and gratuitous sex scenes as drawbacks ^[3].

Despite these criticisms, the series has been widely acclaimed for its originality and its ability to keep audiences engaged through its complex characters and plot.

Legacy

Season 1, Episode 7 of Money Heist is part of a series that has left a lasting legacy in the world of television. The show’s influence can be seen in its impact on popular culture, with references to the series appearing in various forms of media.

The series has also inspired other creators, particularly in the heist genre, to experiment with new narrative structures and character dynamics. The show’s use of flashbacks, time-jumps, and an unreliable narrator has set a new standard for storytelling in television.

Moreover, Money Heist has become a cultural phenomenon, with its characters, such as the Professor and Tokyo, becoming household names. The show’s iconic red jumpsuits and Salvador Dalí masks have been replicated in fan art and cosplay, further cementing its place in pop culture.

In conclusion, Season 1, Episode 7 of Money Heist is a critical component of a series that has redefined the heist genre and left a lasting impact on television and popular culture.