If I Hadn't Met You

If I Hadn't Met You is an entrancing TV series that debuted on Netflix in 2018, embracing elements of romance, drama, and fantasy as it poses fascinating questions about fate, choice, and parallel universes. Produced in Spain under its original title "Si No Te Hubiera Conocido," this science-fiction narrative unfolds through 10 captivating episodes keeping viewers on the edge of their seats with its beguiling blend of emotional drama and thought-provoking speculative fiction.

The series revolves around the protagonist, Eduard, a man in his forties leading what seems to be an ordinary life with his wife Elisa and their two children, Òscar and Clara. Fate delivers a cruel blow as Eduard experiences a devastating family tragedy that leaves him lost and bereft, plunging him into the depths of despair. But the universe, or rather multiverse, has other plans for him.

In a classic twist of fate, Eduard crosses paths with a mysterious woman named Dr. Liz Everest who possesses an enigmatic device capable of opening doors into parallel universes. The possibility of these alternate universes offers Eduard a beacon of hope, a tantalizing chance to change his present by altering incidents in his past. The series, therefore, weaves a fascinating tale of Eduard's journey across various parallel realities and how his life could have turned out under different circumstances, offering a fresh take on the age-old question: "What if?"

As he ventures across these alternate realities, Eduard encounters different versions of himself and his loved ones shaped by the choices they have made, redefining his understanding of his life, love, and loss in the process. These voyages through time and space shape Eduard's emotional and psychological journey as he grapples with the physical and metaphysical consequences of his actions and decisions.

What makes If I Hadn't Met You stand out is its ability to eloquently bridge the gap between science fiction and emotional drama. It delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of love, loss, guilt, and redemption all while posing provocative questions about destiny and free will. The narrative unfolds with enough mystery, suspense, and emotional intensity to keep viewers riveted. Each episode peels back more layers of the intriguing multiverse concept and Eduard’s personal journey, often leaving audiences with more questions than answers, paving the way for a viewing experience that is both intellectually and emotionally engaging.

The series is buoyed by authentic, compelling performances by the lead actors, particularly Pablo Derqui who brings Eduard to life with exceptional depth and emotional understanding. His transformation and journey through different universes offer an opportunity for Derqui to showcase a range of performances, each one distinct yet bound by the common thread of his character’s undeniable humanity. The chemistry between the lead characters adds further depth to the narrative, facilitating the portrayal of intense emotional scenes that tug at the heartstrings.

Shot against the stunning backdrop of Catalonia, Spain, If I Hadn't Met You also features breathtaking visuals that add to the cinematic appeal of the series. The production design successfully recreates diverse realities within the same universe, distinguishing them with subtle differences that collectively contribute to the captivating visual storytelling.

Overall, If I Hadn't Met You is a compelling exploration of parallel universes and human emotion, a riveting amalgamation of science fiction and soul-stirring family drama. Its unique blend of speculative ideas, heartfelt storytelling and deeply human characters make it more than your average science-fiction series. The show is an immersive viewing experience that enthralls the viewers and keeps them hooked right up to the very last frame while leaving them pondering the possibilities of 'what ifs'. With its fascinating concept, stunning visuals, and captivating plot, If I Hadn't Met You is a memorable addition to Netflix's international spectrum of shows, carving a niche for itself within the genre of science fiction.