Express

"Express" is a thrilling Spanish-language original series that premiered on the Starzplay streaming platform in January 2021. The show marks Starzplay's first original series produced in Spain and is part of the platform's commitment to delivering high-quality, localized content to its global audience. Created by Iván Escobar, known for his work on "Locked Up" ("Vis a vis"), "Express" delves into the increasingly relevant world of fast-paced crimes and their impact on society, personal lives, and the intricate balance between security and freedom. Set against the backdrop of contemporary Madrid, "Express" introduces audiences to a disturbing new trend in crime: express kidnappings. These are quick abductions where the victim is held for a short period, typically only a few hours, with the sole purpose of extorting money, often via electronic transfers. This form of crime exploits the immediacy of technology and banking, pressures families for rapid ransom payment, and capitalizes on the emotional turmoil experienced during the critical window of time. The series centers on the life of a criminal psychologist and negotiator, Barbara, who is also a victim of express kidnapping. Barbara's harrowing personal experience becomes the catalyst for her career in a specialized unit within the police force, focused solely on combating this new wave of crime. Driven by her past trauma and a fierce sense of justice, she dedicates her professional life to resolving similar cases and apprehending the perpetrators. Barbara possesses a unique blend of empathy and psychological acumen, which makes her an exceptional asset to the unit. She is adept at getting into the minds of both the victims and the abductors, understanding the psychological mechanisms at play, and using her expertise to turn the tables on the criminals. Her work involves a delicate dance of maintaining negotiations, keeping victims calm, and using her sharp instincts to stay one step ahead of the kidnappers. "Express" brings forth a strong, multi-layered female lead who navigates the complexities of her traumatic experience while being a powerhouse at work. The show doesn't shy away from exploring the nuances of a modern-day professional woman facing enormous strain in both her personal and professional lives. Barbara's struggle symbolizes the resilience required to face her fears head-on and the determination to provide a sense of closure for the victims she helps. The series also captures the psychological ramifications of express kidnappings on the individuals and families involved. It paints a vivid picture of the panic, the emotional rollercoaster, and the long-lasting scars that such incidents inflict. Through various cases that unfold over the episodes, viewers get a multifaceted view of the socio-economic factors that give rise to such crimes and the different forms they can take in urban settings. With a gripping narrative that unravels the intricate relationships and the dark underbelly of the city, "Express" takes viewers on a suspenseful ride through each meticulously planned abduction. The show skillfully balances procedural elements with serialized storytelling, allowing for both individual episode arcs and an overarching plot that connects the dots between different characters and their evolving stories. As Barbara and her team confront a myriad of cases, the series exposes the complexities of the criminal mind and the sophistication of criminal networks that exploit the anonymity and connectivity of the digital age. The show's creators offer a commentary on the vulnerability of our interconnected lives and the paradox of technological advancement that can both aid law enforcement and empower criminals. The aesthetics of the show are striking, with a contemporary visual style that captures the pulsating energy of metropolitan life and the stark contrasts between the light and dark aspects of the city. The cinematography, along with the production design, contribute to the intense atmosphere, immersing the audience in the high-stakes environment Barbara operates within. On a broader level, "Express" touches on themes such as the societal impact of crime, the efficacy of the justice system, and the ethical questions related to the boundaries law enforcement can push in the pursuit of saving lives. It challenges viewers to think about the complexities of negotiation, sacrifice, and the difficult choices faced by those on the front line against new forms of crime. Overall, "Express" presents a bold, innovative take on the crime genre. It combines thrilling action, complex characters, and provocative storylines to keep audiences on the edge of their seats while probing into deeper societal issues. As such, "Express" is a show that not only entertains but sparks conversations about the changing landscape of crime and justice in the modern world.

Express is a series categorized as a . Spanning 1 seasons with a total of 8 episodes, the show debuted on 2022. The series has earned a no reviews from both critics and viewers..