"Women in Blue" has been a gripping ride through the turbulent waters of 1970s Mexico, and episode five, titled "Ángeles," stands out as a masterful blend of character-driven drama and taut suspense. This episode centers on Ángeles, portrayed by the ever-impressive Ximena Sariñana, whose journey in this installment is nothing short of intense.
Ángeles is the brain of the group, a fingerprint analyst with a talent for uncovering what others might miss. But in this episode, we see a different side of her—one that is vulnerable, conflicted, and dangerously close to unraveling. As Ángeles dives deeper into the case, the pressure mounts, revealing cracks in her cool, analytical facade. The audience is taken on an emotional rollercoaster as she juggles her responsibilities within the team, her loyalty to her fellow women in blue, and her struggles with the harrowing memories of her past.
Director Fernando Rovzar, known for his nuanced storytelling, really lets the tension simmer in "Ángeles." The pacing is deliberate, allowing us to feel every ounce of pressure that Ángeles experiences. The cinematography mirrors her turmoil, with tight close-ups and shadowy lighting that make her world feel increasingly claustrophobic. It's a visual representation of the mental and emotional maze she's trapped in, making her eventual breakthroughs—and breakdowns—all the more impactful.
One of the episode's strengths lies in its balance between the personal and the professional. We see Ángeles not just as a cop, but as a woman with her own demons. This duality is skillfully woven into the plot, which revolves around a critical discovery she makes that could change the course of the investigation. Yet, this revelation comes at a personal cost, forcing her to confront her own fears and doubts. Sariñana delivers a compelling performance, capturing Ángeles' internal conflict with a quiet intensity that keeps you glued to the screen.
However, while the episode is strong, it’s not without its flaws. There are moments when the narrative drags slightly, particularly during scenes where Ángeles’ internal struggles are perhaps drawn out a bit too long. While these moments are important for character development, they occasionally disrupt the momentum of the plot. A bit more balance between the inner and outer action could have maintained the episode's pacing more effectively.
Moreover, the episode’s heavy focus on Ángeles means that other characters, particularly María and Gabina, are somewhat sidelined. This isn't necessarily a bad thing—after all, this is Ángeles' story—but it does leave the broader narrative feeling slightly lopsided. For those who have grown attached to the ensemble cast, this shift in focus might feel like a departure from the dynamic that made the earlier episodes so engaging.
Despite these minor setbacks, "Ángeles" is a standout episode that adds layers to the series' overarching narrative. It delves into the complexities of its characters with a deft hand, offering viewers a deeper understanding of what drives these women to keep pushing against the odds. The episode leaves you with a sense of unease, as the lines between right and wrong, justice and revenge, become increasingly blurred. It's a powerful reminder that in the world of "Women in Blue," nothing is ever black and white.
In conclusion, "Ángeles" is a compelling watch, driven by a strong performance from Ximena Sariñana and thoughtful direction from Fernando Rovzar. It might not be the most action-packed episode of the series, but it more than makes up for it with emotional depth and psychological complexity. If you’ve been following the series, this episode is not to be missed. It sets the stage for what promises to be an explosive final stretch, leaving viewers eager to see how the story will unfold.
Final Score - [8/10]