Culture / TV

Why is everyone talking about ‘Alba’? The new Netflix series already a hit

alba netflix series

Spanish language Netflix series, Alba, has stuck a chord with audiences across the globe. A 13-episode series, it has quickly become popular with Australian audiences, taking them on a winding, thrilling journey through each episode. So, why is everyone talking about Alba? Here’s what you need to know about the series. 

What is the plot of Alba? 

The plot of Alba centres on titular character’s story, portrayed by Elena Rivera, who wakes up on a beach having been sexually assaulted by friends of her boyfriend. However, she has no memory of this happening and the traumatic event leads to a series of events that uncover the tumults of wealth and blackmail within powerful networks. Alba goes to local authorities to report her experience, however finds it hard to convince them of its actuality and that it wasn’t consensual. Alongside this, her boyfriend’s friends allege she was consenting and that he was also there while it occurred. 

The series is based on the Turkish novel Fatmagül’ün Suçu Ne? and has already cemented itself as a hit in Australia, charging its way to the top of Netflix’s top 10 most-watched list within the first five days of its release. 

Where was Alba filmed?

The Alba Netflix series was filmed across Spain throughout the second half of June, 2020. Predominantly, we see Alicante and Madrid as the setting of the series, with Alba’s coastal hometown the central point as she has returned home from studying in Madrid. 

The real life location is the Spanish municipality of Finestrat, located in the Alicante provence, sitting alongside the Puig Campana mountain, with a small population of little more than 6,000 people. 

What other shows is Alba similar to? 

To get a sense of Alba’s content and flow, there are a few other shows that have a similar plot and make. Unbelievable – starring Toni Collette and Kaitlyn Dever – is the most overtly similar series, centring on a series of assaults that took place between 2008 - 2011. Michaela Coel’s I May Destroy You is also in a similar vein, as is Apple Tree Yard and Lies and Deceit. 

Where can I watch Alba in Australia? 

Alba is currently available to stream on Netflix. 

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