Smiley

I wasn't sure what to expect with this series. The trailer looked promising but I've been duped by trailers before. The series starts with a call to a wrong number that sets up a chain of reactions and introduces us to the various storylines, all of which were well written and carried out - a stagnation marriage, a lesbian couple at the crossroads of their 7 year relationship, a widow and her long lost childhoold friend. The main story centers around Bruno and Alex, two polar opposites on the gay spectrum who meet by accident and discover there's a white hot chemistry between them. Yes, Carlos Cuevas is very easy on the eyes but that's not the only reason to watch. I intended to view just the first episode and ended up binge watching all eight episodes in one sitting. This series reminded me of the great 2000 Spanish film 'Km.0' which was amazing. Highly recommend this to fans of limited romantic drama series.

Finally, I saw a film in which there is no negativity, wars and militarism, dull people who are tired of themselves. Here, gays and lesbians are no different from anyone - everyone communicates with everyone about their innermost dreams and desires. People live, resting from the imposed stereotypes of "right" and "wrong". The film shows life as it should be in a civilized society. All people equally empathize with each other and just live their lives. This is the essence of the film - no one hides their feelings from anyone and does not impose them on others. Imaginary hypocritical tolerance has been replaced by ordinary life, everyone has the right to their own life, if this does not interfere with other people's lives. Life is Beautiful and amazing. Real life is always devoid of stereotypes.

Old telephones and wrong numbers, misunderstandings, the inability to express true feelings and blossoming LOVE. That is Smiley.

All the classic elements of rom-com rolled into a delightful Christmas gift from Spain and Netflix.

Throw in a handsome cast of fine actors and this Spanish comedy just flies.

It touches on a wide range of issues including family, and rejection but mostly the search, the timeless search, for love.

This series is joy. Sit back and join Bruno and Alex as they navigate the pitfalls of modern romance in a fabulous looking Barcelona.

We may all know where we are going but the journey is half the fun!

I found Bros probably one of the most self indulgent actor/writer projects of recent years, and understand why it bombed as a rom com. Smiley, on the other hand succeeds with characters you want to follow on their romantic journeys through all the episodes! I enjoyed how it was an ensemble, so rather than a focus on just the leads, you can enjoy the supporting players performances and storylines. The chemistry between the two leads, was undeniable (something a project like Bros failed on miserably), and you find yourself rooting for them to find what they are looking for in the end. I won't reveal any spoilers, but I was wondering while watching how they came up with the title, and was pleasantly surprised with the reveal at the end. I think American writers and producers, disappointed by the failure of Bros, should applaud and appreciate how this Spanish production did it right and exceeded expectations for a male/male rom com.

Even if you're not in love with all of the characters... you can definitely find a few to love in this passionate, smart, and yes, sometimes a little maddening series. Carlos Cuevas is so sexy and such a joy to watch in anything. I dare you not to fall in love with him. Or....how about just finding someone to love in this show and enjoy. Perfect for the holidays.

The original spanish is the best...however if that's not possible it's still very much worth it.

Love being able to see shows from Spain that are done so well. Merlí was also an excellent series. I hope we'll get a second season and a third, and a....