Season 3 - Episode 4 - Money Heist

Introduction

Season 3, Episode 4 of the Netflix series “Money Heist” (also known as “La casa de papel” in Spanish), is a pivotal episode in the third part of the series. This episode, titled “It’s Dolphin Time,” continues the high-stakes heist narrative that has captivated audiences worldwide. The series, created by Álex Pina, is known for its intricate plot, complex characters, and strong Spanish identity.

“Money Heist” was initially broadcast on the Spanish free-to-air TV channel Antena 3 before being acquired by Netflix, which extended the series beyond its original two-part format. The third part, including Episode 4, was released in July 2019, following the immense success of the previous seasons. The episode was directed by Jesús Colmenar and written by Álex Pina and Javier Gómez Santander, with Pina and Esther Martínez Lobato serving as executive producers.

What sets “Money Heist” apart within its genre is its unique blend of heist drama, emotional depth, and social commentary. The series subverts traditional heist genre conventions by incorporating a strong female perspective, through characters like Tokyo, and a distinct Spanish cultural identity. This approach has made the series highly relatable and appealing to international audiences.

Plot Summary

In “It’s Dolphin Time” (Season 3, Episode 4), the narrative intensifies as the gang faces numerous challenges inside the Bank of Spain. The episode begins with the gang realizing that their phones have been hacked by the police, specifically by the new leader, Tamayo, who confiscates all devices used in the past six months against protocol. This development puts the gang’s communication and entire plan at risk.

The Professor and Raquel (Lisbon) are blacked out of the bugged devices, and Bogota needs more time to execute their plan. Palermo explains the use of an encrypted communication channel to avoid information leaks, and Marseille is tasked with moving around with old set phones to remain untraceable.

Meanwhile, Tamayo prepares to barge into the bank within 15 minutes, disregarding protocol and increasing the tension. The gang tests bulletproof vests on themselves to ensure the hostages’ safety, and Arturo, a hostage, speculates that Denver might be the leader since Berlin is dead.

A critical flashback reveals the main plan to unlock the vault behind the flooded one, but the Governor refuses to cooperate and is knocked out, leading to a heart attack that Nairobi desperately tries to resuscitate. As Tamayo readies a helicopter to loom over the bank, Bogota places a bomb on the vault door, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation.

Themes and Symbolism

The central themes in “It’s Dolphin Time” include resistance against the system, loyalty, and the consequences of high-stakes actions. The episode reinforces the series’ core theme of revolution, symbolized by the red jumpsuits and Salvador Dalí masks worn by the gang. These symbols, as explained in previous episodes, represent resistance and national pride, drawing on Spain’s cultural heritage and the surrealist movement’s rebellious spirit ^[2].

The episode also delves into the emotional dynamics of the characters, highlighting the passion and impulsivity of their relationships. The gang’s unity and willingness to risk everything for each other are underscored, particularly in the face of external threats and internal conflicts. This emotional depth adds a layer of complexity to the heist narrative, making the characters more relatable and human.

Cultural Impact

The cultural significance of “Money Heist” is evident in its widespread popularity and influence on popular culture. The series has become a global phenomenon, with its iconography being used in various contexts. For example, the red jumpsuits and Dalí masks have been worn at events like the Rio Carnival and displayed on banners in Saudi Arabian football stadiums ^[3].

The show’s success has also led to negative responses, such as real-life heists inspired by the series, where perpetrators have worn the show’s distinctive costumes. This has resulted in security measures, like banning the costumes at the 2019 Limassol Carnival Festival ^[3].

Critical Reception

“Money Heist” Season 3, including Episode 4, received widespread acclaim from both critics and audiences. The series was praised for its high-energy drama, character-driven storytelling, and the way it subverts traditional heist genre conventions. The episode’s release was part of a highly successful third part, which was streamed by 34 million household accounts within its first week and became one of the most-watched productions on Netflix at the time ^[1].

However, there were also differing interpretations and controversies. Some critics argued that the series was an allegory of rebellion against capitalism, while others saw the Robin Hood analogy as a mere distraction strategy ^[1]. The show’s influence on popular culture and its potential to inspire real-life actions have been subjects of debate.

Legacy

The enduring relevance of “Money Heist” Season 3, Episode 4, lies in its impact on the television landscape and its continued influence on audiences and creators. The series has set a new standard for non-English language productions, demonstrating that international content can achieve global success without compromising on cultural identity.

The episode’s intricate plot, combined with its emotional depth and symbolic elements, continues to inspire filmmakers and writers. The show’s ability to balance action, drama, and social commentary has made it a benchmark for future heist dramas.

As one of the most-watched and most-followed series on Netflix, “Money Heist” has cemented its place in cinematic history, reflecting the changing landscape of global media consumption and the growing importance of international productions.

Season 3 – Episode 4: It’s Dolphin Time