Although its title seems to imply the main focus of this show would be drug-related, this new Netflix series is way more than that. White Lines includes themes from friendship and romance to mystery and murder, all of which make for an intriguing program that lures you in, and keeps you watching.
Just like Money Heist, created by the same Spanish television producer Álex Pina, White Lines is suspenseful with a plot unique in comparison to almost any other show. It was released on May 15th, and because we’re still under a stay-at-home order, it’s the perfect time to relax and truly take in this eccentric experience.
After authorities believe to have found the body of Axel Collins, a man who disappeared from Ibiza twenty years back, Zoe Walker leaves her quiet life and family in Manchester to investigate the alleged murder of her brother for herself.
Andreu Calafat, one of the most powerful and wealthy businessmen on the island, is seemingly shocked to find out that Axel’s body was found on his land. Consequently, he tasks the stunningly handsome Boxer, his chief of security, in figuring out whether or not a member of the Calafat family was involved.
While the acting wasn’t the best and many of the characters were pretty unlikable, Boxer, played by Nuno Lopes, was almost every viewer's favorite person.
After both visiting Marcus, Axel’s former best friend, Boxer and Zoe unexpectedly meet and end up working together very closely.
The Calafat family and all of Axel’s friends were the main suspects of his murder, none of which seem can truly be trusted. All of these people were very interesting characters as well; one was a comedic cocaine dealer, one was a recovered heroin addict running a hippie retreat, and another had an Oedipus complex, meaning he is sexually attracted to his mother.
In the series, scenes switched from present day to when Axel was a major DJ on the island back in the 90’s, living a life full of women and drugs. The flashbacks showcased the old lives of every character and continued to bring more shocking storylines.
While these crazy happenings made the show a thrill of a ride, the ending wasn’t as suspenseful as I had hoped for. Regardless, I will still be waiting in anticipation for a second season.
Apart from the storylines and acting, the cinematography and scenery of the beaches and landscapes of Ibiza was beautiful, definitely leading some to wish this is the place they spent their time in their 20’s too.
The Netflix series received a rating of 63% from Rotten Tomatoes and 6.5/10 score from IMdB, which I believe are pretty spot-on to what I would personally rate the show as. I myself found White Lines enjoyable in all its craziness, but some of the hilariously bad Google reviews I read did not agree.
If you are an adult who likes dramatic mysteries with hints of comedy, love, lust, and thrill, this may be a show for you to check out on your downtime. It certainly helps to get your minds off the real life craziness going on in the world today.
I would give this series a 3.5 out of 5 Swoops.
