Fabulosas Flores

Fabulosas Flores was an absorbing Chilean television series that aired in 2016. Directed by Marialy Rivas, with a well-crafted screenplay from Pedro Peirano and Sebastián Silva, this captivating drama encapsulates the essence of a dysfunctional family struggling to maintain a balance between personal happiness and societal expectations. Essentially, the plot revolves around the eccentric and diverse members of the Flores family that absolves the television drama from monotonous clichés.

The title “Fabulosas Flores” provides a clue in Spanish for what awaits the viewer – fabulous flowers, which is an apt metaphor for the strong and unique women of the Flores family. This television series artistically combines drama and elements of dark comedy to paint a portrait of a contemporary family unit in Santiago, Chile. Despite carrying the weight of numerous social challenges, the Flores family emanates resilience and proves that the idea of 'perfect family' is a fluid and ever-changing concept.

At the heart of this television drama are three distinctive and robust characters: Rosario, Bernardita, and Mercedes "Mechita" Flores. Rosario, the matriarch, shuffles between sustaining her family and catering to her own dreams and aspirations. She is often seen juggling her responsibilities with the struggles that come with being a recently divorced, over-forty woman in modern-day Chile.

Bernardita, the eldest daughter, portrays the complexities of a young adult coming-of-age in a technology-dominated society and striding with the anxiety of discovering her own voice. Then there’s Mercedes or Mechita, a teenager, who channels her energy and youth into fighting for social justice issues, adding an essential and relevant subplot to the show.

This multi-generational female-driven narrative stands out in “Fabulosas Flores”. The superbly fleshed-out characters carve a distinct space for themselves in the audience’s heart while discussing critical societal pressures, parenthood issues, gender stereotypes, love, compassion, youth activism, and self-discovery. Intriguingly, the male characters in the series, while complementary to the story, add more depth and layers to the women of the Flores family.

Mischievous yet warm-hearted, the drama captures authentic and relatable discussions around the dinner table as the family stumbles, adapts, and grows through the unfolding chaos. Viewers will find themselves effortlessly drawn into the daily life of the Flores family, and before they know, they'd be experiencing an entire gamut of emotions, from laughter to tears.

Despite the grimness of certain themes, the series refrains from taking itself too seriously, and much of its charm lies in the delicate humour imbued in each episode. It delivers an engaging view of modern Chilean life, touched with emotional nuances and light-hearted moments, feeding the viewer’s curiosity about South American culture and family dynamics.

The brilliance of “Fabulosas Flores” is further charged by commendable performances, particularly Maria Elena Swett, who plays the demanding role of Rosario with remarkable grace and Charisma. Loreto Aravena and Agustina San Martin, playing Bernadita and Mercedes respectively, contribute equally compelling performances, splendidly manifesting all the highs and lows of their characters with adept emotion and believability.

Visually, the series is a delight to watch with clean and crisp cinematography that adds a sense of realism to each episode. It encapsulates the urban landscape and chaos of Santiago but juxtaposes this with the warmer, more intimate settings of the Flores household.

It's no surprise that the series was lauded for its sincere portrayal of women in different stages of life. It is a candid mirror of reality, de-glamorized, yet painted in the most beautiful hues of respect, empowerment, and achievement.

In conclusion, "Fabulosas Flores" provides a mesmerizing blend of drama and humor while exploring the intricacies of life. It is a truly compelling depiction of modern family life that does not shy away from the less glamorous aspects. The situations, emotions, and characters are uniquely relatable, making it an engaging watch, particularly for those who enjoy family dramas with a distinct personality and profound intellectual depth. So, brace yourself for a rollercoaster ride with the Flores women – it's something you would not want to miss.