Barcelona’s Darkest Secrets Unveiled in Gripping Netflix Thriller ‘City of Shadows’
Singapore residents looking for a compelling crime drama to dive into need look no further. The Spanish series, City of Shadows (original title: Ciudad de Sombras), has arrived on Netflix, bringing with it a chilling murder mystery set against the iconic backdrop of Barcelona. This six-part series has already garnered significant praise for its suspenseful narrative, powerful performances, and masterful utilisation of the city’s unique architectural landscape.
The story kicks off with a shocking discovery: a body is found engulfed in flames, hanging from the façade of one of Antoni Gaudí’s most recognisable buildings. This macabre scene immediately thrusts Inspector Milo Malart, portrayed by Isak Férriz, back into the fray. Malart, a detective whose career has been marred by scandal and personal struggles, is tasked with investigating what appears to be a series of ritualistic killings. He’s partnered with the sharp and resourceful Deputy Inspector Rebeca Garrido, played by Verónica Echegui. As the pressure mounts from an increasingly agitated public and a relentless media, the duo races against time to unmask the perpetrator behind these heinous crimes.
Netflix’s official synopsis elaborates on the grim beginning: “A macabre crime has taken place at La Pedrera—Casa Milà: a burned body has been discovered on the façade of Gaudí’s iconic building. Inspector Milo Malart, recently suspended from the Mossos d’Esquadra for insubordination, returns to duty in the Catalan capital. Together with Deputy Inspector Rebeca Garrido, he sets out to uncover the culprit behind the crime.”
The casting of Férriz and Echegui provides a strong foundation for the series, as both actors have a notable presence on the Netflix platform. Isak Férriz has featured in several Netflix productions, including Bank Under Siege (2024), Infiesto (2023), Feria: The Darkest Light (2022), and Below Zero (2021). Verónica Echegui, a celebrated actress, has also graced Netflix with her talent in projects like The Patients of Dr. Garcia (2023), Intimacy (2022), and Book of Love (2022).
Tragically, Verónica Echegui passed away in August of this year at the age of 42 after a battle with cancer. Her work in City of Shadows represents one of her final performances, a posthumous release that has deeply resonated with audiences. Following her death, the film and television industry paid heartfelt tributes to her extensive body of work, with many colleagues honouring her legacy. Echegui’s performance in City of Shadows has been particularly lauded, with viewers describing it as “monumental.”
Audience and Critical Acclaim
The series has quickly captured the attention of viewers, with many reporting an “addictive” quality that kept them hooked from start to finish. Social media reactions highlight the binge-worthy nature of the show, with one user admitting to staying up until 3 am because they “couldn’t stop” watching.
Critics have also weighed in, with publications predicting that City of Shadows could become a favourite among Spanish drama enthusiasts. The rapport between the lead characters has been singled out as a strong point, contributing to the overall captivating experience.
Thematic Depth and Visual Storytelling
Beyond its thrilling plot, City of Shadows is being recognised for its thematic boldness. The series delves into sensitive issues such as abuse, institutional failures, and the way societal neglect and corruption can foster the creation of “monsters.” It deliberately avoids a simplistic portrayal of good versus evil, instead exploring the complexities of moral ambiguity. While the on-screen violence may be confronting for some, the narrative compels viewers to examine the systemic issues that lead to such tragic outcomes.
The visual aspect of the series has also been a major talking point. Critics note that the stunning Barcelona architecture is not merely a backdrop but an integral part of the show’s identity, creating a powerful sense of place that enhances the storytelling. The unique urban landscape of the Catalan capital plays a significant role in shaping the atmosphere and narrative of the crime drama.
Competition in the Streaming Landscape
City of Shadows enters a competitive streaming environment, aiming to capture the same audience that has been captivated by other successful non-English series on Netflix. The platform’s current top 10 non-English series include titles such as Dynamite Kiss, The Price of Confession, Last Samurai Standing, and The Crystal Cuckoo. Historically, non-English productions like Squid Game, Money Heist, and Lupin have achieved massive global success, demonstrating the strong appetite for international storytelling on streaming services.
For those in Singapore seeking a well-crafted, suspenseful, and visually rich crime thriller, City of Shadows offers a compelling viewing experience. The series is currently available to stream on Netflix.
