‘Crime Diaries: The Celebrity Stylist’ Netflix Movie Review - A Gripping Thriller Based on True Events

Crime Diaries: The Celebrity Stylist is a Netflix original movie that tells the story of a brutal crime that shocked Colombia in 2011. The movie follows the investigation of a young detective, Ana María (Juana del Río), who is given 20 days to solve the case of the murder of a famous stylist, Leonardo Rincón (Ernesto Benjumea), and his mother, Cecilia (Myriam de Lourdes Santana Rosa), who were found stabbed to death in their home. The movie is based on the book "The Celebrity Stylist Case" by journalist Alberto Salcedo Ramos, who covered the real-life case for the magazine Semana.

The movie is a fictionalized version of the real-life murder of Mauricio Leal, a Colombian celebrity stylist who was killed in 2011 along with his mother. The movie changed some names and details, but it followed the main events of the investigation. For example, the detective Ana María is based on the real detective María Claudia Rojas, who solved the case in 20 days. The movie also used some footage and photos from the actual crime scene and trial.

The movie begins with the discovery of the bodies by Leonardo's assistant, Camilo (Camilo Colmenares), who calls the police. Ana María, a rookie detective who has just been transferred to Bogotá, is assigned to the case by her boss, Santana (Walter Luengas). She soon realizes that the case is not as simple as it seems, as she uncovers a web of secrets, lies, and motives involving Leonardo's clients, friends, family, and enemies. The movie also shows flashbacks of Leonardo's life, from his humble beginnings as a hairdresser to his rise to fame as a celebrity stylist, and his involvement in a drug trafficking network.

Crime Diaries: The Celebrity Stylist is a captivating blend of crime drama and fashion intrigue. The series masterfully captures the glamour and allure of the fashion world while exposing its ruthless underbelly.

The movie is a gripping thriller that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, as Ana María follows the clues and faces the challenges of solving a high-profile case under pressure. The movie also explores the themes of ambition, fame, corruption, and justice, as it portrays the dark side of the glamorous world of celebrities and the media. The movie is well-directed by Jacques Toulemonde Vidal, who creates a tense and realistic atmosphere, and is well-acted by the cast, especially Juana del Río, who delivers a convincing and nuanced performance as the determined and courageous detective.

The movie pulls back the curtain on the often-hidden underbelly of the fashion world, revealing a realm where ambition knows no bounds and rivalries run deep. The series delves into themes of envy, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of success, exposing the dark side of an industry that many perceive as glamorous and unattainable.

The movie relies too much on the voice-over narration of Ana María, which sometimes breaks the immersion and tells rather than shows the information. The movie could have benefited from more dialogue and interaction between the characters, and more visual and cinematic storytelling.

In conclusion, Crime Diaries: The Celebrity Stylist is a captivating and thrilling movie that offers a glimpse into a notorious crime that shook Colombia. The movie is a must-watch for fans of true crime and mystery, as it showcases the work of a brave and dedicated detective who seeks to find the truth and bring justice to the victims. 

Final Score – [8/10]
Reviewed by - Arpita Mondal
Publisher at Midgard Times