In the seventh episode of Women in Blue, titled "Dora," the series takes a sharp turn into a more personal and haunting narrative. This chapter stands out as it shifts the focus from the broader socio-political backdrop of 1970s Mexico to the intimate and chilling story of a young girl, Dora, whose life has been a quiet storm of trauma and secrets. As María and her team dig deeper into Dora's past, they stumble upon a web of corruption and tragedy that shakes them—and us—to the core.
The strength of this episode lies in its willingness to slow down and really dig into Dora's story. The previous episodes have been intense and fast-paced, but here, the showrunners smartly take a step back, allowing the narrative to breathe and the characters to show more vulnerability. The Azules, particularly María, find themselves deeply affected by Dora’s situation, and the audience is pulled into their emotional turmoil. This is where the episode excels—it is not just about solving a case; it’s about confronting the horrors that lurk beneath the surface of everyday life.
Visually, "Dora" maintains the show’s gritty aesthetic but with a more subdued palette that reflects the somber tone of the story. The cinematography is particularly effective in its use of shadows and tight framing, creating a sense of claustrophobia and unease that mirrors Dora’s own feelings of entrapment. The show continues to excel in its period details, immersing us in the era with authenticity without ever feeling like it's showing off.
However, the episode is not without its flaws. At times, the pacing can feel uneven. While the slower, more reflective moments add depth, there are instances where the plot seems to drag, especially when it delves too deeply into side characters or subplots that don’t quite add to the main narrative. This can make the episode feel longer than it needs to be, and some viewers might find themselves losing interest during these slower sections.
Moreover, while the focus on Dora is compelling, it also highlights a recurring issue in Women in Blue—the show’s tendency to introduce new characters and stories at the expense of fully developing its central cast. By now, we’re deeply invested in María, Valentina, Gabina, and Ángeles, but this episode sidelines them somewhat, particularly in the second half. This shift can feel jarring, and while it’s clear that the writers wanted to give Dora’s story the attention it deserves, it comes at the cost of continuity in the main storyline.
Despite these criticisms, "Dora" is a powerful episode that deepens the show’s exploration of systemic corruption and the impact of violence on the vulnerable. It’s a sobering reminder of the real-world issues that Women in Blue is based on, and it does so with a level of nuance and care that’s commendable. The episode leaves us with more questions than answers, setting the stage for what promises to be a tense and dramatic conclusion to the season.
In summary, while "Dora" may not be the most action-packed episode, it’s one of the most emotionally resonant and thematically rich installments of Women in Blue. It’s a slow burn that rewards patient viewers with a deeper understanding of the show’s world and the characters who inhabit it. The episode’s willingness to tackle difficult subjects with sensitivity and depth makes it a standout, even if it occasionally stumbles in its pacing and focus.
For fans of Women in Blue, "Dora" is a must-watch that will linger with you long after the credits roll. It’s a testament to the show’s ability to blend crime drama with thoughtful, character-driven storytelling, making it one of the more unique entries in the genre. If the rest of the season can build on the foundations laid here, we’re in for a memorable ride to the finish.
Final Score - [6/10]