El Secreto del Río

El Secreto del Rio/The Secret of the River is best summed up in the following quote, "Un gran amigo vale más que mil amore." or "A great friend is worth more than a thousand loves."

This is the story of two children brought together by circumstance. They become friends first reluctantly, and then in earnest; bound together by a secret that they feel they must keep, the secret of the river.

It is a story of struggle against society, family, friends and self and ultimately finding love and acceptance in community and demonstrating the power of pure friendship. As children, the friendship of Manuel, Erik and Paulina is pure and protective. All three are figuring out the world in which they live where the adults are also proving that they're figuring it out too trying to balance tradition with a world that is moving quickly and yet at the speed of the Isthmus.

The director uses flashbacks in touching and illustrative ways without giving in to being maudlin or treacly to emphasize the innocence of their friendships.

Additionally, this series of eight episodes wraps up the story lines well while leaving open the possibility of other explorations of the relationships this show establishes.

Direction, good. Acting, expecially from the kids, was really excellent. You never see this level from kids. I use to like series based in México and produced there, but this one really stands alone for its plot, the way It develops, sensitivity; without talking about gangs, narcos (we already had a bunch of shows like that) but still showing something real, a story involving common people in a place that Is not Cdmx nor Cancún or the northern border with Usa. You may find yourself understanding what will happen slowly, step by step, in a way that resembles more literature than tv shows. Most of all, It Is really well written. I think It is one of the best Netflix TV series right now, surely something to watch.

This is one of the best shows I've ever seen. It is beautifully touching. Well written, fully rounded, courageous and with a story that is made for these times. I wish everyone could see this series. Maybe, it would help the world better understand this issue. Help it be a kinder, more tolerant and a better place for everyone.

The actors are all very talented and bring truths to a subject that is still taboo in some cultures. The creators should be hailed for a great work of art.

The cinematography is outstanding and entertaining with a grittiness and realism that is authentic and beautifully executed.

Let me start off by saying you have to have a mature mind in order to properly digest this material. That means looking beyond the obvious and concentrating on the nuance on display here. The main characters are like oil and water; but at the same time, they are the same. Again, In order to fully comprehend what is on display here requires a very nuanced mind.

The writing and acting here is just a masterpiece. The writing is balanced and consistent with very small hiccups here and there. The young protaganists also are just fantastic. They display a range in acting that is perfection. The project also includes a fabulous musical score, fantastic cinematography and on location filming. This is just flat out a masterwork. Its a must watch.

For me, certainly one of the ten best series seen in a long time. The actors, both children and adults, are excellent and very touching.

The story is unusual and gripping, it is told in a very simple way, without all the usual clichés about Mexico, and the discovery of this world and its very special culture fascinates and makes you think. I recommend the original version with subtitles to enjoy the nuances of the language and voices.

It is a pure masterpiece that carries very high and very far the values of friendship, respect, compassion, beauty, patience and perseverance... You may need some tissues at some moments, not included here. ;-)