A little drama and rock n’ roll in the 60s: “45 revoluciones”

where to watch: Netflix

when to watch: When you’re in the mood for something a little too dramatic, something you can’t think too hard about. (All this happens in six months…?)

you should note: It’s a glorified, artsy soap opera. I won’t deny it. 13 1 hour episodes; highly bingeable. One of the creators is female.

tl;dr: A soapy show about three characters launching a record label in Spain at the height of rock and roll, and of censorship during Franco’s regime. I found it thoroughly enjoyable.

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If you’ve read my “About” page, you know I’m a Linguistics major. How does this apply to TV, you ask? Well, I like languages. One language in particular—Spanish.

I have an obsession with the Spanish language, and also with Spain since I went on a school trip there. This manifests itself as my love for telenovelas, especially the period ones from Spain.

So before you read further, make no mistake—45 revoluciones (“45 rpm” in English) is something of a soap opera. It’s dramatic, not terribly unpredictable, and everyone is pretty to look at. 

But, it’s also one of the least over-the-top Netflix telenovelas from Spain that I’ve seen (I’m looking at you, Cable Girls). If you like Spanish shows, dramatic shows, the 60s, romance, idealists, fights over company shares, or music, I encourage you to check it out.

the premise

There’s nothing particularly original about the premise itself; in fact, much of the show feels familiar. Guillermo Rojas is an idealistic alcoholic who has an idea—he wants to start a subsidiary of Golden Records that focuses exclusively on music that appeals to young people. He’s a classically likable male hero that has significant flaws and has made some big mistakes in the past. His right-hand man woman is Maribel, a young, spunky, overqualified secretary (Peggy Olson who?). Finally, there’s Rober(t). He’s a gorgeous young rebel. A guitarist and a singer, he’s the star of the new Futura Records, and Guillermo’s discovery. 

The characters may be archetypal, but the unique setting sets the show apart. It’s not just anywhere in the 60s, it’s Spain under Franco. Though the show never gets super gritty, it doesn’t shy away from the difficulties being a rock n’ roll musician under a fascist regime presents. As someone really interested in Spain’s history, I found it fascinating and super compelling. 

the cool aesthetic

While the setting and the premise were engaging, I couldn’t take my eyes off the show because of its aesthetic. I mean, European music execs in the 60s. The costumes are awesome!! The look of the show is exceptionally appealing. Beyond the clothes and the beautiful 1960s set pieces and props, the show employs many artistic visual techniques. It regularly uses a very retro split-screen effect, lots of tight close-up shots, and plays with lighting.

in conclusion

Who doesn’t like a little drama in their life now and then? The show’s not deep, but it’s moving and visually pleasing. It likely won’t be renewed for a second season, and it shouldn’t be—a million things happen in the first season, and it all comes to a satisfying close. If you like a little light-hearted drama, and especially if you like Spanish shows, give it a shot. 

find more on Netflix

you might also like: Money Heist, Mrs. Maisel, GLOW