Money Heist: A Global Heist Phenomenon

Money Heist, originally titled La Casa de Papel (The House of Paper) in Spanish, is a Spanish heist crime drama that took the world by storm. Created by Álex Pina, the series debuted in 2017 and went on to become one of Netflix's most-watched non-English language shows.

The Plot

The series follows two long-planned heists orchestrated by the mysterious Professor (played by Álvaro Morte). The first heist targets the Royal Mint of Spain, while the second, even more ambitious operation, sets its sights on the Bank of Spain.

The story unfolds from the perspectives of both the robbers and the police, led by Inspector Raquel Murillo (Itziar Ituño). The narrative is not linear, employing flashbacks, time jumps, and an unreliable narrator (Tokyo, played by Úrsula Corberó) to create suspense and complexity.

What Made it Popular?

Several factors contributed to Money Heist's global appeal:

  • The Robin Hood Twist: The robbers aren't your typical criminals. Led by the intellectual Professor, they have a meticulous plan and a strong sense of camaraderie. They even adopt code names based on famous cities (Tokyo, Rio, Berlin, Nairobi, etc.) This creates a sense of intrigue and makes it easier for viewers to root for them, despite their illegal activities.
  • High Stakes and Suspense: The series is full of thrilling moments as the Professor's plan unfolds and the authorities try to crack it. The constant cat-and-mouse game between the robbers and the police keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
  • International Appeal: The show's Spanish origin offered a fresh perspective on the heist genre. The cultural aspects and the use of the Spanish language with subtitles added to the show's unique charm.

Beyond the Show

Money Heist's success spawned a legion of fans worldwide. The show's iconic red jumpsuits and Salvador Dalí masks became instantly recognizable symbols. A South Korean remake titled "Money Heist: Korea - Joint Economic Area" was released in 2022, demonstrating the show's lasting influence. In December 2023, a spin-off series focusing on the character Berlin was also released.

Whether you enjoy heist films, crime dramas, or shows with a strong international flavor, Money Heist is definitely worth watching.