Return to the Scene of the Crime with Money Heist spin-off ‘BERLIN’

Money Heist spin-off Berlin has consistently claimed its spot in Netflix’s top series category since its launch on December 29, 2023, and for good reason: it stars none other than fan-favorite Berlin (Pedro Alonso) and introduces his “old” thrilling crew, which includes code virtuoso Keila (Michelle Jenner), locksmith Roi (Julio Pea Fernández), engineering and physics academic Damián (Tristan Ulloa), enigma Cameron (Begoña Vargas) , and gadget and weapon expert Bruce (Joel Sánchez),

While the story takes place years before the audacious heist at The Royal Mint of Spain, Berlin has engineered a gripping reunion for fans by bringing back some iconic characters from the previous series, including Raquel Murillo (Itziar Ituo) and Alicia Sierra (Najwa Nimri).

Showrunners Lex Pina and Esther Martinez reveal a new angle on this prequel, stating that while Berlin is a “lighter” take on the beloved series, its emphasis on “love” is what distinguishes it from the original material

We always look for elements that really connect with the viewer, and love is one of those elements. And there are so many facets to love. In fact, the story shows a range of types of love in which the characters vie to show different moments of love, to show different situations.

Berlin titular character actor Pedro Alonso has this to say about the project and his character in this prequel, echoing the showrunners’ sentiments

I’ve often heard that Berlin is a cynic. Not at all. He’s sarcastic, he has a diabolically dark sense of humor, and he can be fascinating, a real prick, whatever you want, but not a cynic. He’s a man who’s committed to rediscovering a great life, falling in love in the face of common sense and logic. A man who’s made to love, in spite of everything.” actor Pedro Alonso

Aside from the innovative and captivating narrative, Berlin captivates spectators with its magnificent scenic surroundings, with the series being shot in 146 places around Spain, including Madrid, Almeria, and León, as well as the romantic city of Paris. Scenes from the episode were shot in prominent Parisian locations such as the Church of Saint Julien Le Pauvre, Château d’Ormesson-sur-Marne, Sacré Coeur, and other streets in Montmartre.

Beyond these stunning settings, the show’s carefully chosen soundtrack enchants with songs that were originally recorded for the series, such as Francis White and Nikki García’s “Bullets and Flowers,” POL 3,14’s “No me mires,” and Pipo Romero’s “Tout Ou Rien.”