Narcos: Episode 1

Just say YES to Narcos, a very impressive series which debuted on Netflix August 28, 2015. Netflix cable cutters rejoice because I would wager Narcos is here to stay.

Narcos takes us to the Miami streets and alley ways, the slums of Columbia and to the Columbian rain forest in steadily paced rhythm and ever-growing plot intrigue. Of course, the show is set in the late 70s when kingpin Pablo Escobar's drug cartel was in its first stages and the music hums in rock and disco tracks of the day.

Wagner Moura is captivating as Pablo Escobar, sporting a pudgy belly and flat-footed walk, a sparkling grin and merciless gaze. Boyd Hollbrook plays DEA agent Steve Murphy who, for the most part, humorously narrates over the show in Goodfellas' fashion. Murphy is enjoyable to watch as a naive agent heading into the heart of the Columbian cartel scene.

What impresses me most about Narcos is the almost perfectly paced sequences alternating between the suspense of the drug trade and the lives of the characters. While there is a nod to Goodfellas in the style of narration, the vibe feels like a less flashy David Fincher or more lively Michael Mann project.

Episode 1 "Descentia" introduces the cast and provides some history into the cocaine trade. If you enjoy it as much as I did, you will be happy to see Netflix automatically load up episode 2 while the end credits roll. 4.5/5
Director: José Padilha