The Godmother: “Griselda” emerges as a captivating Netflix series that skillfully blends the elements of crime drama with a moving feminist narrative

When I think of a crime boss I think of an intimidating, deadly, ruthless person — not Sofia Vergara who is best known for her light-hearted and sassy role as Gloria Pritchet in the comedy “Modern Family.” So when I found out she was cast to play Miami crime lord Griselda Blanco in the thrilling Netflix series “Griselda” I was a little skeptical

Before even pressing play, I pictured the show butchering Griselda’s image with cheesy feminism, corny jokes and watered-down murder scenes. However, less than three minutes into the pilot episode my preconceived notions were proven wrong.

Vergara completely transformed and embodied the role of Griselda — she was unrecognizable. I didn’t even see Vergara, all I could see was the Griselda Blanco, the Cocaine Godmother, one of the most notorious drug traffickers ever. 

Vergara delivers a nuanced performance that captures the complexity of Griselda navigating the treacherous world of the drug trade. Her ability to convey both the ruthless determination and vulnerable moments of Griselda adds depth to the narrative, making the character intriguing and more than just a stereotypical crime figure who is in charge of everything, answers to nobody and never feels powerless.

Despite the title, the show isn’t only about Griselda. The people she surrounded herself with had similar ambitions but it was refreshing to see a variety of personalities on the screen.  Martín Rodríguez who played Jorge “Rivi” Ayala-Rivera, Griselda’s hitman, especially stood out with his mesmerizing portrayal of a criminal mastermind, as his presence creates suspense from the moment he is introduced.

Suspense is what drives this show. The series tells two storylines: Griselda’s journey as a female crime lord and the cops’ search to arrest her. Watching both play out alongside each other made me want to grab a bowl of popcorn and watch the whole series in one night.

However, there’s a limit to how much can be fit into six episodes — making the storyline feel rushed. It was difficult to see all of Griselda’s development with so many complex characters and pivotal events that other important aspects of Griselda’s journey and reign are brushed aside. The show would have definitely benefited from a longer season to allow it to be further developed.

Either way, the suspense is complemented by masterful cinematography — specifically the use of lighting to enhance the atmosphere. The series plays with light and shadow to emphasize the moral ambiguity that takes place in Griselda’s world, with the darkness and light representing a visual metaphor for the moral complexities the characters navigate. I spotted the pattern in the second episode and from then on every scene became a much more thought-provoking experience.

I also was able to realize that instead of using bold transitions for scenes set in Griselda’s past, flashbacks were often bathed in warm, nostalgic hues that contrasted with the colder intense tones used to depict the present. These visual changes were slight, but moving from past to present allowed me to see the stark difference in how far Griselda had come from her complicated past.

However, while the series excels in its technical aspects, it’s the feminist message embedded in the narrative that truly sets “Griselda” apart. The show delves into the challenges and opportunities Griselda faced as a woman in a male-dominated criminal world. It explores the nuances of her struggle for power and respect — showcasing the multifaceted nature of femininity within the context of crime and power dynamics.

Griselda was not a good person, she was not misunderstood, nor was she merciful. She was a villain. I’m glad that rather than glorifying Griselda’s actions, the series presents a nuanced perspective on her character, portraying her as a complex individual shaped by her circumstances. 

In a genre often criticized for perpetuating stereotypes, “Griselda” manages to subvert expectations by presenting a feminist narrative that goes beyond mere empowerment tropes. It challenges traditional gender norms, prompting viewers to question societal expectations placed on women, even those involved in criminal activities.

“Griselda” is a compelling show that excels in acting talent and cinematography, as well as its thought-provoking feminist message. The series is not a cliche crime drama, but a more complex and engaging portrayal of the true image of Griselda, the good and all of the bad.