For a taste of something a bit different, I thought my second review would be on something that I've been rather obsessed with for the last week. If you've read our "About" page you probably already know that two of my majors are Spanish and History hence it should come as no surprise that one of my favourite TV shows at the moment is a combination of both. Now, if you're not a native Spanish speaker or the extent of your Spanish is ¡Hola! and ¡Gracias!, fear not! This show has started to air in the US so English subtitles are readily available.
I discovered this little gem as I was scrolling through page after page of Spanish TV shows in an attempt to find something I could use to get more exposure to the language. It struck me immediately as it didn't seem to be one of those typical telenovelas with the exaggerated love stories and dramatic acting. I struggled to find a website that would let me view the show in NZ (as it doesn't air here) but eventually, through some internet magic, managed to get a good stream. If you're in the US, you'll find it on Hulu.
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| Sira Quiroga played by Adriana Ugarte |
The story follows a young girl named Sira Quiroga (Adriana Ugarte) who grows up in Madrid with her seamstress mother and through her childhood learns how to sew and make garments. A romance with a dashing typewriter salesman, Ramiro, played by Rubén Cortada (who, holy crap, is GORGEOUS) leads her from Madrid to Tangier, Morocco where her life changes forever. The time period crosses over with the Spanish Civil War though is set mostly in Morocco where we hear only bits and pieces of the horror of what is happening in Spain. Sira takes up her trade as a dressmaker and makes a powerful friend in Rosalinda Fox and of course, Félix, the next door neighbour.
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| Sira Quiroga and Rosalinda Fox |
This show has a distinctly historical feel with a touch of glamour, espionage and just the right amount of drama. I was surprised at how fast the show moved. Within the first episode we see her grow from child to adult, fall in and out, and in love again and move from Madrid to Tangier...in the first episode! They seem to have cut out all the unnecessary bits making each episode like it's own mini movie. The characters are delightful. Sira is an excellent protagonist that grows from a naïve and frail young girl to a powerful, independent woman with only success in her future. She doesn't beg your pity and neither is she reduced to just the subject of someone's affections. Rosalinda and Félix are both incredibly likeable characters that move the plot forward and also create a sense of family for Sira in Morocco. Candelaria takes on the mother figure shape when Sira first comes to Tetouan and remains an influence in her life. I may possibly have been biased in my adoration of Ramiro. It's those eyes! And of course there's Jamila, Sira's ever loyal housemaid that you can't help but love.
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| Rubén Cortada as Ramiro *sigh* |
Thus far the series has been absolutely excellent and I simply can't wait to watch on! In fact there's a high chance I'll be watching at least one episode tonight. If you're up for something a little different definitely give this show a watch. The first episode will have you hooked!
KEEP
9/10
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