“Land of Women” on Apple TV+ is like a sangria that’s been sitting out too long—refreshing at first but eventually, you realize it’s just a tad too sour. This six-episode dramedy stars Eva Longoria as Gala, a New York socialite whose life goes from chic to shriek when her husband's debt forces her into hiding in a quaint Spanish town with her mother and teenage daughter. What unfolds is a concoction of small-town charm, familial secrets, and a couple of clumsy hitmen thrown in for good measure.
On the sunny side, Longoria delivers her usual charismatic performance, bringing her trademark flair to the role of Gala. Her chemistry with Carmen Maura, who plays her mother, Julia, is delightful. Maura’s portrayal of a woman facing her past with wit and resilience is a treat. Their interactions, peppered with sharp humor and poignant moments, are the backbone of the series.
The setting, a picturesque Spanish wine town, is practically a character in itself. The visuals are stunning, capturing the rustic beauty of northern Spain. The small-town quirks, from nosy neighbors to local festivals, add a layer of authenticity and charm that makes you want to pack your bags and join the fiesta.
The narrative is a cocktail of comedy and drama, with a splash of thriller. The comedic elements, particularly the bumbling hitmen, provide light-hearted moments that are genuinely funny. The drama, revolving around family secrets and the past catching up, adds depth to the story, keeping viewers engaged beyond the laughs.
However, not all is well in this vineyard. The plot, while engaging, sometimes feels like a soap opera that’s trying too hard to be sophisticated. The twists and turns are predictable, and the suspense elements lack the edge needed to keep you on the edge of your seat. The pacing, too, can be uneven, with some episodes dragging their feet like a sleepy siesta.
Victoria Bazúa, who plays Gala’s teenage daughter Kate, is a mixed bag. While she brings youthful energy to the screen, her character often feels underdeveloped, serving more as a plot device than a fully realized person. Her teenage angst and rebellion feel cliché, lacking the nuance that would make her struggles more relatable and compelling.
The series attempts to juggle multiple themes—family, identity, and redemption—but ends up dropping a few balls. The exploration of Julia’s past and the reasons for her 50-year absence from her hometown are intriguing but could have been fleshed out more. The theme of starting anew in a foreign land, while timely and relevant, sometimes gets overshadowed by the more melodramatic elements of the plot.
“Land of Women” also suffers from tonal inconsistency. It swings between light-hearted comedy and serious drama without always sticking to the landing. The result is a show that can feel disjointed as if it’s unsure whether it wants to be a heartwarming dramedy or a suspenseful thriller.
In summary, “Land of Women” is a series with a lot of potential that doesn’t quite hit the mark. It’s a pleasant watch, thanks to its strong performances and beautiful setting, but it falls short of being a must-see. If you’re in the mood for something light with a touch of drama and a dash of humor, it’s worth a watch. Just don’t expect it to be the toast of the town.
For those who adore Eva Longoria and enjoy a blend of comedy and drama set against the backdrop of a charming Spanish town, this series will certainly provide a few laughs and heartfelt moments. Just be prepared for some predictable turns and a bit of narrative wobbling. Like a glass of wine, it’s enjoyable but not quite vintage.
Final Score- [6/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
Follow @AnjaliS54769166 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times
Note: All 6 episodes are screened for this review.
Premiere Date: June 26, 2024, on Apple TV+ with the first two episodes followed by a new episode every Wednesday.