D'une main de fer

The TV series in question is nothing but a chaotic mishmash of gratuitous violence and graphic sexual content, seemingly designed to shock rather than tell a coherent story. From the very first episode, it becomes clear that the writers have little else in mind beyond throwing every taboo and shock value scene they can think of into each episode. The result is a non-stop barrage of outrageous characters-A voodoo/Santeria shaman, pirates, fight club pretenders. In short, nothing more than a mindless and forgettable sequence of fighting stunts and spontaneous sex scenes. One a positive note, you'll never feel like you missed something, since every scene feel the same.

I must admit that after watching the first episode I was not positive at all. I found it poor and very planned, like trying to imitate the really good series on this topic. But oh boy! I'm glad I gave it one more chance, starting with the second episode it's something quite different, very exciting and with great action scenes and better dialogues, I also really like the combination of the different characters. Very powerful! Many scenes will take you to the edge of your sofa due to the tension and suspense.

I found the sex scenes totally unnecessary, although I have always seen it as something very typical of Spanish series and movies.

The great cast of actors is a very good choice and the photography in the seaport of Barcelona is an interesting and different premise.

The actor, Eduard Fernández, Joaquin Manchado in the series, is really good in his role, he becomes the capo, the Barcelona 'godfather' of a criminal network that he manages with an iron fist, and not just metaphorically. ...but..the decision to replace his hand with an iron hook, due to an accident, seems exaggerated if I may say so.

If you're a fan of these cruel bloody crime thrillers, a lot of good action and mystery plots, then don't miss this one. Is a really good production.

Show has the proper mixture of everything that make a good crime show. Crime family with tensions between members. Crime enterprise hiding behind the facade of legitimate business. Large shipment of drugs going missing. Various crime families circling each other "we are friends, we work together but we'll punch on you if we see you as weak". Colombian drug cartels. Undercover cops. Events from decades ago still casting shadows and secrets. But somehow it all fails to come together and leaves us with a disjointed story that is all over the place, betrayals that make little sense, people acting stupidly..... Too bad.

Iron Reign is a watchable Spanish crime drama set in the criminal underbelly of the Barcelona port. The short eight episode long season one combines intrigue, drama, treachery, police, drugs and even a love triangle.

Unfortunately, the potential of the story is lost amidst flashbacks, confusing story twists, too many main characters and subplots within subplots.

The basic storyline concerns one family, the Manchados, who manage everything illegal at Barcelona port. The plot focuses on a cocaine drug deal with foreign sellers which, due to double dealing within the family, goes off the rails and efforts to stave off a disaster as a result of the failed deal. Meanwhile, Spanish authorities have set their sights on bringing down the Manchados by infiltrating the family.

Can't say anymore without giving away too much.

Iron Reign is an easy series to watch. It may not win critical acclaim but it's far from a waste of time. The ending may not be to one's liking but Netflix is setting viewers up for season two.

Iron Reign (2024) is one of the most gripping and surprisingly underrated series of the year. From the very first episode, it pulls you deep into a world of crime, power, and family loyalty. The storytelling is intense, fast-paced, and filled with twists that you never see coming. Each character is well-crafted, especially the lead who perfectly balances strength and vulnerability. The atmosphere is dark but rich, and the cinematography beautifully captures the tension in every scene. What makes it stand out is how unpredictable the plot is-you constantly feel like anything can happen. Despite its quality, it hasn't received the attention or rating it truly deserves. Iron Reign is a hidden gem worth watching.