Money Heist, known as La Casa de Papel in Spanish, is a gripping heist crime drama television series created by Álex Pina. The narrative unfolds through two meticulously planned heists orchestrated by the enigmatic Professor, played by Álvaro Morte.

The series intricately weaves between the Royal Mint of Spain and the Bank of Spain, providing a unique perspective from the eyes of one of the robbers, Tokyo, portrayed by Úrsula Corberó.

Originally conceived as a limited series in two parts, Money Heist premiered on Spanish network Antena 3 from May to November 2017.

Netflix later acquired global streaming rights, re-cutting the series into 22 shorter episodes for a worldwide release in December 2017 and April 2018.

Subsequently, the show saw a renewal for an additional 16 episodes with a higher budget. The subsequent parts were released in July 2019 and April 2020.

A fifth and final part, released in two volumes in September and December 2021, marked the conclusion of the series.

In the wake of Money Heist: The Phenomenon, a documentary exploring the show's impact, a two-part documentary titled Money Heist: From Tokyo to Berlin was released on Netflix.

Furthermore, the series has transcended its Spanish origins, with a South Korean remake titled Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area in 2022.

A direct spin-off named Berlin, featuring Pedro Alonso reprising his role, is set to be released on December 29, 2023, expanding the Money Heist universe.

Money Heist is not confined to Spanish locales; it was predominantly filmed in Madrid but also features significant scenes shot in Panama, Thailand, Italy (Florence), Denmark, and Portugal (Lisbon).

The series garnered widespread recognition, winning the International Emmy Award for Best Drama Series at the 46th International Emmy Awards.

Critics praised its intricate plot, interpersonal dramas, innovative storytelling techniques, and its contribution to evolving Spanish television.

Beyond its narrative, Money Heist left an indelible mark on popular culture. The Italian anti-fascist song "Bella ciao," featured prominently in the series, became a summer hit across Europe in 2018.

By that time, the show had become the most-watched non-English-language series and one of the most-watched series overall on Netflix, connecting deeply with viewers in Mediterranean Europe and Latin America.

Set in Madrid, the series revolves around the Professor recruiting eight individuals with city names as aliases for a daring plan.

The first heist targets the Royal Mint of Spain, where €984 million is to be printed and escaped with after holding 67 hostages for 11 days.

The subsequent heist focuses on the Bank of Spain, involving gold and a new set of challenges.

The initial season introduces the failed bank robbery aftermath, leading to the Professor's proposal to Tokyo. Code-named for cities and dressed in red jumpsuits, the robbers face internal conflicts, violence, and hostage challenges.

The season concludes with the successful escape from the Royal Mint, although with casualties.

Set three years post the first heist, the Professor resumes plans to assault the Bank of Spain after Europol captures Rio.

Part 3 concludes with Lisbon rejoining the gang inside the bank, while Part 4 explores the aftermath of the gang's confrontation with the police, internal struggles, and the tragic death of Nairobi.

Volume 1 witnesses the gang facing an assault by the Spanish army, internal conflicts, and the sacrifice of Tokyo.

Volume 2 delves into alliances forming between former enemies, the search for the stolen gold, and a twist involving the gang's survival, concluding with the gang successfully robbing the Bank of Spain.

Conclusion

Money Heist stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of international television, captivating audiences with its intricate plot, character dynamics, and unconventional storytelling. Its global impact, critical acclaim, and expansion into new territories solidify its place as a groundbreaking series in the world of entertainment.