Well what can I say?
Hotel Cocaine is a thrilling dive into the hedonistic and dangerous world of 1970s Miami, centered around the infamous Mutiny Hotel, where the lines between luxury and lawlessness blur. The series immediately sets itself apart with its vibrant energy, drawing viewers into a whirlwind of decadence, crime, and high-stakes drama.
Danny Pino shines as Roman Compte, the hotel's general manager, delivering a compelling performance as a man caught between family loyalty and the demands of the DEA. His portrayal of Roman is layered, showing both the character's cool competence and the cracks that form as he navigates the treacherous waters of the Miami drug trade. The Mutiny Hotel, with its kaleidoscope of colours and constant buzz of activity, becomes a character in its own right, serving as the perfect backdrop for the chaotic events that unfold.
One of the standout aspects of Hotel Cocaine is its ability to maintain a high level of excitement and tension throughout. The show's directors infuse the series with a sense of exuberance and excess that mirrors the wild atmosphere of Miami during this era. The creative team's choice to embrace a more colourful and lively aesthetic, as opposed to the often dark and gritty tones of similar shows, breathes new life into the crime drama genre.
Despite its intense subject matter, Hotel Cocaine manages to balance its drama with moments of levity and humor, especially through its portrayal of real-life celebrities who frequented the hotel. These moments provide a refreshing contrast to the otherwise high-stakes narrative, making the series as entertaining as it is thrilling.
For fans of shows like Narcos, Queen of the South, and Snowfall, Hotel Cocaine offers a fresh, vibrant take on the crime drama, with enough twists and turns to keep viewers hooked from start to finish. It's a series that not only captures the spirit of its time but also delivers a captivating story full of intrigue, danger, and unexpected moments of fun.
If you're a film junkie like myself then you'll appreciate the time and effort that Chris Brancato and everyone else put in to make this happen.
I enjoyed it. Not my place to say where it could have been improved. It is what it is.
Thank you.
