Merlí. Sapere Aude

What a beautiful series this has been. I hadn't realised it was a follow-up to an earlier drama, so I shall be searching out the original now. But as for this, I found it to be utterly beguiling. Every character was so believable, with all the frailties and vulnerabilities of youth, but with marvellous performances from 'older' cast members too. It felt effortlessly authentic, a testament to the level of acting, direction and production of all involved. Beautiful and so moving.

An exceptionally well written, acted, and directed series. A group of first year philosophy students come to terms with both student life and their own sexual identities as the series develops. It manages to get over some very complex philosophical concepts with relative ease, relating them to the thoughts and actions of the characters, demonstrating that philosophy has practical applications and is not all esoteric. The characters are well developed over the course of the two series, dealing with the inequalities of existence, the hard knocks of life, as well as the highs. The sex scenes were convincingly erotic. Carlos Cuevas does a brilliant job as the lead.

I have not seen Merlí, but have no problem getting into this sequel. This is partly due to the really good actors, and partly, of course, to the story, which I was a little skeptical about at first, because lately I find too many Spanish series with pretty boys and naked butts on Netflix. However, that's really only an accessory here, because this series doesn't want to be a telenevola with hot Latinos. The title says it all, dare to be wise - we are dealing with philosophy, or rather with students who study philosophy at the university in Barcelona and struggle with various lecturers, good or bad grades and of course the obligatory love affairs. You quickly realize that Barcelona has more to offer than a few beautiful neighborhoods, and those who want to can work through ethical and philosophical questions, sometimes humorously. A really successful mixture.

Having watched season one and enjoyed it, I felt season 2 would be similar. But this is actually outstanding this season. The acting, the storyline, the emotions, several episodes in this season have been incredible. The soundtrack too is very special and especially the closing piece to this episode.

Congratulations to the writers, directors produces etc for telling this emotional story and thanks to Carlos Cuevas for taking this on. One can't quite believe when you enter episode 2 what to expect but its handled with real honesty and beauty. Now one of my favourite all time shows I will recommend on so many levels.

Absolutely loved it...maybe not as much as the original series...but quite good. Focuses on Pol Rubio as he starts his university studies in philosophy. Most action involves the colleagues that Pol meets at the "Uni" (Mineva, Rai, Biel, Oti, Amy, Etienne...) and some of the story involves Bruno Bergeron. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!