I loved the Netflix series Narcos, but I do think that this spin-off, Narcos: Mexico is a better show. To be fair, both shows are great, but I just think that this one had a quicker pace and was a bit more “brutal” in the action that it showed as it told a fascinating story about the Mexican drug trade.
How to Stream or Download Narcos: Mexico (TV series)
You can stream it or you can download the series from the Netflix App. Click on the Download button at the end of the review and visit the show’s Netflix page.
The Movie Review
The show was actually going to be part of the main Narcos series, but creators, Chris Brancato, Carlo Bernard, and Doug Miro decided to make it its own thing. I am really glad about this as the setting, the characters, and even the whole show itself has its own feel, but at the same time, if you enjoyed Narcos, you will find a real sense of familiarity here that you will like.
This time we are changing Columbia for Mexico! The show is about the Mexica drug trade and how it goes from a disorganized mess to a massive crime ring controlled by powerful and ruthless bosses! The show has three seasons and each season is 10 episodes long.
I have to say that Netflix really nailed the season and episode lengths with Narcos: Mexico. There is nothing in any of the three seasons that feels like a filler episode. The whole show moves at a rapid pace. It is certainly one of those shows where you will find yourself saying “Just one more episode” as you notice it is 3 AM!
Our main antagonist in the show is Miguel Ángel Félix Gallardo who is played by Diego Luna. Miguel is the leader of the Guadalajara Cartel; he is the one that organized all of the smaller drug groups into this massive empire. He basically started the Mexican drug trade that the authorities are still fighting to this day. He really is a captivating character that you want to learn more about.
I did not know much about the real history of the Guadalajara Cartel, but man, I was hooked and a huge reason for this was the charismatic performance of Diego Luna! Trying to bring him down in the first season we have Michael Peña as Kiki Camarena, a DEA agent who seems like he might have the intel needed to stop this drug empire.
No spoilers here, but the DEA is expanded upon as the series progresses and we have more than just Kiki trying to bring these guys down. While Narcos: Mexico can stand as its own show, you do have some crossover with José María Yazpik as Amado Carrillo Fuentes from the original Narcos series. However, you do not need to have watched Narcos to enjoy this.
If you love badass crime dramas, you have to watch Narcos: Mexico. I would say watch the original Narcos series first as it is fantastic and then watch this. With some great performances, interesting characters, and some bloody and brutal action! Narcos: Mexico is a show that you will end up watching all three seasons off over a short period of time and you will be hooked!
