‘Baby Bandito’ Netflix Series Review - Love, Heists, and Unseen Twists

"Baby Bandito," Netflix's latest thriller series, bursts onto the screen with the velocity of a skater's kickflip, promising a heist of epic proportions and a rollercoaster of emotions. Directed by Julio Jorquera and released on January 31, 2024, this show skates on the edge of reality, inspired by true events that unfold against the backdrop of Chile and the romantic allure of Rome.

Let's roll into the heart of the matter, where Kevin Tapia, the eponymous "Il Baby Bandito" in Europe, is our skateboarding anti-hero. Nicolas Contreras takes on the role of Kevin, a risk-loving skater with a penchant for danger. Kevin's world takes a thrilling turn when he becomes infatuated with Genesis, portrayed by the enchanting Francisca Armstrong. The plot kicks into high gear when Kevin, driven by reckless love, decides to pilfer a $7 million heist plan from a dangerous gang, all in the name of securing a future with his beloved Genesis.

The series crackles with tension as Kevin and his crew pull off the grandest heist in Chilean history. The show's setting, primarily in the vibrant streets of Chile, provides a visually rich canvas for the unfolding drama. However, here's where the first chink in the armor appears – the visuals, while competent, lean towards the generic. The cinematography lacks the innovation that could have elevated the series to greater heights. The un-creative direction, unfortunately, fails to inject a distinctive flavor into the storytelling, leaving it somewhat languishing in the shadows of its potential.

Despite these drawbacks, the narrative's pulse quickens as the action shifts to Rome. The Eternal City becomes a playground for Kevin and Genesis, where their pursuit of a life less ordinary leads to a crescendo of passion and risk. The series successfully captures the essence of an exhilarating journey, intertwining the thrill of the heist with the allure of an unconventional love story.

Nicolas Contreras gives a commendable performance as Kevin, infusing the character with the rebellious spirit of a skater willing to take on the world for love. Francisca Armstrong as Genesis provides a captivating counterpart, her on-screen chemistry with Contreras adding a layer of authenticity to the tumultuous love story. The ensemble cast manages to keep the narrative engaging, despite the occasional stumble in the pacing.

One of the standout aspects of "Baby Bandito" lies in its exploration of the repercussions of social media in the aftermath of the heist. In an age where every move is documented and shared, the series delves into the impact of the virtual world on real-life consequences. It cleverly weaves in contemporary themes, making the narrative not just a thrilling heist story but also a commentary on the intersection of technology, love, and crime.

Now, let's address the elephant in the room – the color grading. Unfortunately, it falls victim to the same lack of inspiration that plagues the visuals. The color palette, while not entirely displeasing, remains unremarkable. A series with such a bold premise deserved a more daring and inventive approach to color, something to match the rebellious spirit of its protagonist.

Despite these critical observations, "Baby Bandito" manages to keep its head above water, primarily due to its inherent charm and the chemistry between the lead actors. The series presents a wild ride, blending the adrenaline-pumping elements of a heist with the poignant beats of a love story. It's a delicate dance between danger and desire, executed with flair, even if the visual and color elements fall short of reaching their full potential.

In conclusion, "Baby Bandito" is a series that surfs the waves of excitement, occasionally wiping out on the shores of visual mediocrity. While the negatives may act as speed bumps, the overall journey is still an enjoyable one. It's a tale of love and larceny that embraces its flaws with a nonchalant shrug, inviting viewers to hop on the board and ride the unpredictable waves of Kevin Tapia's tumultuous world. So, grab your popcorn, suspend disbelief, and join the heist – it might not be a flawless execution, but it's certainly a daring one.

Final Score- [6/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
Follow @AnjaliS54769166 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times