Season 4 - Episode 2 - Money Heist

Introduction

“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 subversion of the heist genre. Season 4, Episode 2, is part of the series’ continuation after its initial run on Antena 3, with Netflix acquiring the global streaming rights and extending the series beyond its original two-part format.

Season 4, which consists of eight episodes, was released on April 3, 2020, along with a documentary titled “Money Heist: The Phenomenon” that delves into the show’s production and impact. 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^[1].

What sets “Money Heist” apart is its strong Spanish identity, its use of real-time storytelling, and its reliance on unreliable narrators, flashbacks, and hidden character motivations. The series has been praised for its ingenious plot, engaging characters, and the way it blends elements of thriller, drama, and comedy^[1].

Plot Summary

Season 4, Episode 2, continues the intense narrative of the Bank of Spain heist. The episode begins with the robbers racing against time to save Nairobi’s life after she is severely injured. Tokyo, who has taken over command from Palermo, orchestrates the efforts to save Nairobi, while the Professor and Marseille work on establishing a 48-hour truce with the police to facilitate the medical intervention^[1].

Meanwhile, the restrained Palermo attempts to reassert his command by colluding with Gandía, the chief of security for the Bank of Spain. Gandía escapes and begins communicating with the police from a panic room inside the bank, leading to a violent cat-and-mouse game with the gang. Despite the initial betrayal, Palermo regains the trust of the group and rejoins them.

The episode takes a tragic turn when Gandía shoots Nairobi in the head, killing her instantly. This event sets off a chain of reactions, including the gang’s recapture of Gandía and the Professor’s public exposure of the unlawful torture of Rio and Lisbon’s detention. This move leads to Sierra’s dismissal and her subsequent pursuit of the Professor on her own^[1].

The episode concludes with Lisbon rejoining the gang inside the bank, and Sierra finding the Professor’s hideout, only to hold him at gunpoint. This cliffhanger sets the stage for the subsequent episodes, highlighting the escalating tensions and personal stakes for the characters.

Themes and Symbolism

Season 4, Episode 2, delves into several central themes that are characteristic of the series. One of the primary themes is the concept of resistance and rebellion against the system. The robbers, clad in their iconic red jumpsuits and Salvador Dalí masks, symbolize this resistance. The red color is associated with passion, violence, and revolutionary movements, while the Dalí masks represent the surrealist movement’s inherent rebelliousness^[2].

The episode also explores the theme of loyalty and trust within the group. The betrayal by Palermo and his subsequent redemption highlight the complexities of human relationships under extreme stress. The death of Nairobi serves as a poignant reminder of the personal costs of their actions and the bonds that hold the group together^[1].

Additionally, the series touches on the theme of economic and social injustice, particularly in the context of post-2007 financial crisis Spain. The heist is portrayed as a form of revenge against a system that has failed the people, resonating with audiences who are disillusioned with banks and politics^[1].

Cultural Impact

Season 4, Episode 2, of “Money Heist” contributed significantly to the series’ cultural impact. The show’s international success was marked by its record-breaking viewership; Part 4 attracted 65 million households in its first four weeks, making it the most-watched non-English series on Netflix at the time^[1].

The show’s iconography, including the red jumpsuits and Dalí masks, has been widely adopted and referenced in popular culture. Fans around the world have worn these costumes at events like the Rio Carnival, and they have been used in various forms of advertising and sports presentations^[1].

However, the show’s influence has also had negative consequences. Real-life heists have been inspired by the series, with robbers wearing the show’s signature costumes and using similar infiltration plans. This has led to security measures such as banning the costumes at certain events^[1].

Critical Reception

Season 4, Episode 2, received mixed reviews from critics but was generally well-received by audiences. Critics praised the episode’s tense plot, engaging characters, and the emotional depth of the storyline. However, some reviewers noted the show’s reliance on plot holes, clichéd slow-motions, and corny love stories^[1].

Adrian Hennigan of the Israeli “Haaretz” described the series as a “twisty thriller” driven by its ingenious plot and engaging characters, despite criticizing the English title “Money Heist” as bland^[1].

On the other hand, Pauline Bock of the “New Statesman” questioned the global hype surrounding the series, criticizing its editing, music, and voice-over narration. Despite these criticisms, the show remained one of the most popular series on Netflix and IMDb, trending widely on social media platforms^[1].

Legacy

The legacy of Season 4, Episode 2, of “Money Heist” is rooted in its enduring impact on the heist genre and its influence on popular culture. The series has set a new standard for heist dramas, subverting traditional genre conventions with its strong Spanish identity, complex characters, and real-time storytelling.

The show’s themes of resistance, loyalty, and social justice continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, making it more than just a television series but a cultural phenomenon. The iconic red jumpsuits and Dalí masks have become symbols of rebellion and resistance, transcending the show itself.

As a cultural touchstone, “Money Heist” continues to inspire filmmakers, artists, and audiences, ensuring its place in cinematic history as a groundbreaking and influential series.

Season 4 – Episode 2: Berlin’s Wedding