A review of “Narcos” as a portrayal of the illicit drugs trade in Columbia

“Narcos” is a crime drama series that was released on Netflix in 2015 and ran for four seasons. It depicts the rise and fall of the Medellín Cartel, one of the most powerful and violent drug trafficking organizations in Colombia during the late 20th century, led by Pablo Escobar. The show is a representation of the drug trade in Colombia which has been depicted in various forms of media but “Narcos” stands out for its in-depth exploration of the historical context and the different players involved in the drug trade.

The show’s creators, Chris Brancato, Carlo Bernard, and Doug Miro, have done a remarkable job of bringing the story of the Medellín Cartel to life. The performances of the cast, particularly Wagner Moura as Pablo Escobar, are outstanding and add a level of realism to the story. Moura’s portrayal of Escobar is a complex one, capturing the drug lord’s charm, charisma, and ruthlessness. The show also does a good job of illustrating the complexity of the situation in Colombia, with the government, law enforcement, and the cartels all having their own motivations and agendas.

The show is not without its flaws, as some events have been dramatized for the sake of storytelling. For example, the show has been criticized for its portrayal of the Cali Cartel as a secondary player when in reality, the Cali Cartel was just as powerful as the Medellin Cartel and had a significant impact on the drug trade in Colombia. Critics also point out that the show’s representation of the violence and political situation in Colombia is not entirely accurate. However, it should be noted that the series is a dramatization and not a documentary, and it is not intended to be a completely accurate representation of historical events.

Despite its inaccuracies, “Narcos” is a well-made and engaging examination of the Colombian drug trade. It provides a valuable perspective on the history of the drug trade in Colombia and the impact it had on the country. The show is a combination of fact and fiction that aims to entertain while also educating viewers about the complexities of the drug trade in Colombia. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the subject and it has become a cult classic among fans of the genre.

In conclusion, “Narcos” is a powerful and intense portrayal of the drugs trade in Colombia, it is a well-made and engaging examination of the Colombian drug trade that provides a valuable perspective on the history of the drug trade in Colombia and the impact it had on the country. It is a combination of fact and fiction that aims to entertain while also educating viewers about the complexities of the drug trade in Colombia. It is worth watching for anyone interested in the subject.