Season 5 – Episode 7: Wishful Thinking

Introduction

Season 5, Episode 7 of the Netflix series Money Heist, titled “Wishful Thinking,” is a pivotal installment in the final season of this highly acclaimed Spanish heist crime drama. Created by Álex Pina, Money Heist (Spanish: La casa de papel) has garnered global attention for its intricate plot, complex characters, and the way it subverts traditional heist genre conventions.

The episode was released on December 3, 2021, as part of the second volume of Season 5, which concluded the series. The production of Money Heist is notable for its international filming locations, including Madrid, Spain, where the majority of the series was shot, as well as other locations such as Panama, Thailand, Italy, Denmark, and Portugal ^[2].

The creative team behind this episode includes Álex Pina as the creator and writer, and Jesús Colmenar as the director. The series is produced by Atresmedia and Vancouver Media in association with Netflix. What sets “Wishful Thinking” apart is its intense focus on the complex and evolving relationship between The Professor (Álvaro Morte) and Sierra (Najwa Nimri), which adds a new layer of depth to the narrative.

Plot Summary

Episode 7 begins with Tamayo’s assault unit intensifying their search for Sierra and The Professor, who are hiding in an apartment with a hostage and her crying baby. The Professor and Sierra devise a daring escape plan, using disguises to evade the police and eventually rappelling down the side of the apartment building to avoid detection ^[1].

As they navigate through the city, they find themselves in a series of tense and precarious situations. Despite being on opposite sides of the law, they form an unlikely alliance, showcasing their resourcefulness and trust in each other. The episode also includes a flashback of Berlin (Pedro Alonso) and The Professor discussing their plan to turn the gold into grains and use a pump to transport it through the drainage system, a plan that Berlin describes as “wishful thinking” ^[1].

Meanwhile, the heist team, led by Lisbon (Itziar Ituño), executes the plan to pump the gold through the drainage system. After initial doubts and calculations, they successfully retrieve the gold, marking a significant milestone in the heist. The episode culminates with The Professor and Sierra hiding in garbage bins to escape the authorities, highlighting their creative and desperate measures to stay one step ahead ^[1].

Themes and Symbolism

The central theme of “Wishful Thinking” revolves around the complex relationships and alliances formed under extreme circumstances. The episode delves deep into the emotional dynamics between The Professor and Sierra, who transition from adversaries to a form of friendship. This shift is symbolized by Sierra’s admission that she has not felt cared for since her husband’s death and The Professor’s promise to protect her ^[1].

The theme of loyalty and trust is also prominent, as the heist team works together to execute their plan despite the odds against them. The use of flashbacks, particularly the scene with Berlin, underscores the meticulous planning and the emotional toll of the heist on the characters.

The symbolic use of the baby and the cat in the episode adds another layer of tension and humanity to the narrative. The baby’s crying, which is mistaken for a cat, serves as a reminder of the personal stakes and the fragility of life amidst the chaos of the heist ^[1].

Cultural Impact

The release of “Wishful Thinking” was met with significant excitement and anticipation from fans worldwide. The episode’s creative escape sequences and the emotional depth of the characters resonated strongly with audiences. The series, in general, has had a profound cultural impact, with its iconic red jumpsuits and Dalí masks becoming symbols of rebellion and resistance against authority ^[2].

The show’s influence extends beyond television; it has inspired real-life heists, albeit in a negative context, where perpetrators have used the show’s tactics and costumes. However, this also highlights the show’s ability to captivate and influence popular culture. The series has been referenced in various forms of media, including video games like Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege, where characters wore Money Heist outfits during an in-game event ^[2].

Critical Reception

“Wishful Thinking” received positive reviews from critics for its intense action sequences, emotional depth, and the chemistry between The Professor and Sierra. The episode was praised for its ability to balance tension and emotional moments, making it a standout in the series.

Critics noted the episode’s creative escape plan and the use of flashbacks to add depth to the narrative. However, some critics also pointed out that the series sometimes relies on melodrama and clichéd plot twists, but overall, the episode was well-received for its engaging storyline and character development ^[4].

Legacy

Season 5, Episode 7 of Money Heist contributes significantly to the series’ enduring legacy. The episode’s focus on character relationships and the creative execution of the heist plan sets a high standard for future heist dramas.

The series as a whole has inspired a new wave of Spanish media production, demonstrating that Spanish content can compete globally. The show’s success has also led to increased interest in Spanish culture and language, making it a cultural ambassador of sorts.

The impact of Money Heist is evident in its continued popularity and influence on popular culture. The show’s themes of rebellion, loyalty, and the human condition continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring its place in the history of television as a groundbreaking and influential series.