Netflix has unveiled its latest Spanish series, El Jardinero, on April 11, 2025, a unique blend of thriller and romance that promises to captivate audiences. The series, created by Miguel Sáez Carral and written alongside Isa Sánchez, consists of six compelling episodes produced by DLO Producciones, featuring a talented cast including Álvaro Rico, Cecilia Suárez, and Catalina Sopelana.
At the heart of El Jardinero is Elmer, portrayed by Álvaro Rico, a young man whose life took a dark turn after a childhood accident left him incapable of feeling emotions. Raised by his manipulative mother, La China Jurado (Cecilia Suárez), Elmer is groomed to be a professional hitman, with their family-run nursery serving as a front for his mother’s clandestine murder-for-hire business. The chilling premise sets the stage for a story that intertwines themes of love, loss, and moral conflict.
The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Elmer is assigned to kill Violeta, a kindergarten teacher played by Catalina Sopelana. However, instead of carrying out the hit, Elmer finds himself falling in love with her, igniting emotions he thought were long extinguished. This unexpected romance complicates his life further, forcing him to confront the duality of his existence as a killer and a man in love.
“The love is presented as a radioactive weapon capable of destroying everything when mixed with toxicity, possessiveness, and trauma,” notes a review from El Diario. This encapsulates the emotional turmoil Elmer experiences as he grapples with his feelings for Violeta while navigating his mother’s controlling nature and her relentless pursuit to eliminate her son’s newfound love.
The series is set against the lush backdrop of Galicia, where the vibrant landscapes not only enhance the visual storytelling but also play a crucial role in the narrative. The filming locations in Pontevedra, including the iconic Praza da Ferrería and the gardens of the Pazo de Lourizán, contribute to the show’s atmospheric depth. The production team worked intensively in various locations, ensuring that the rich architectural and natural beauty of the region is central to the story.
Throughout the series, the relationship between Elmer and his mother is a focal point, showcasing a complex dynamic filled with manipulation and dependency. La China Jurado’s character is portrayed as a deeply flawed individual, whose past traumas fuel her controlling behavior. Critics have noted Suárez’s performance as compelling, adding layers to a character that is both villainous and tragic.
As the plot unfolds, Elmer’s emotional awakening is tied to a shocking twist—he develops a brain tumor that restores his ability to feel. This turn of events not only heightens the stakes for Elmer but also serves as a catalyst for his transformation. The series cleverly uses this plot device to explore themes of redemption and the human capacity for love, even in the darkest of circumstances.
“The series doesn’t aim for realism but rather presents a perverse fable about love, death, and redemption,” says a review from Cultura en Serie. This playful self-awareness is part of what sets El Jardinero apart from typical offerings in the genre. The creators have infused humor and a distinct aesthetic into the storytelling, making it a refreshing addition to Netflix’s lineup.
Moreover, the series invites comparisons to iconic works such as Dexter and Psycho, drawing on familiar tropes while crafting a narrative that feels both original and engaging. The combination of dark comedy and emotional depth resonates with viewers, offering a unique viewing experience that balances suspense with heartfelt moments.
In addition to the strong performances and engaging plot, the cinematography by Rafa García enhances the overall impact of the series. The visuals shift between the bucolic and the sinister, reflecting the ambiguous nature of the characters and their motivations. This careful attention to detail contributes to the series’ immersive quality, drawing viewers into Elmer’s tumultuous world.
As the series progresses, audiences are left on the edge of their seats, eager to discover how Elmer’s journey will unfold. The tension builds with each episode, culminating in a gripping climax that challenges the characters’ moral compasses. Will Elmer choose love over loyalty to his mother? Can he break free from the cycle of violence and manipulation?
Ultimately, El Jardinero is more than just a thriller; it’s a story about the complexities of human relationships and the transformative power of love. Netflix’s strategic approach to content creation, leveraging audience data and trends, has resulted in a series that, while entertaining, also provokes thought and discussion.
With its intriguing premise, strong performances, and stunning visuals, El Jardinero is poised to become a standout series in Netflix’s catalog, appealing to fans of both romance and suspense. As viewers tune in, they will surely find themselves captivated by Elmer’s journey and the darkly humorous world he inhabits.
As the series unfolds, it promises to be a rollercoaster of emotions, leaving audiences eagerly awaiting each new episode. Netflix has once again demonstrated its commitment to delivering compelling narratives that resonate with viewers around the globe.
