Spanish Film “The Courier” Becomes a Global Hit on Netflix
The Spanish film “The Courier” (El Correo) has become a global sensation on Netflix, attracting 7.5 million viewers in its first three days on the platform. This makes it the most-watched non-English language film on the streaming service worldwide. The film, which premiered in January, was already a hit in Spanish cinemas, grossing 1.6 million euros and attracting nearly a quarter of a million viewers.
Plot and Cast of “The Courier”
“The Courier” is a fast-paced thriller with political overtones, set against the backdrop of the real estate boom and corruption in Marbella in the early 21st century. The film features Luis Tosar in the cast and is directed by Daniel Calparsoro, known for his adept and over-the-top action filmmaking. The film also stars Arón Piper and Nourdin Batan, who play a young criminal and his sidekick getting into the real estate business in Marbella.
Real Events Inspire “The Courier”
The film is based on real events and tells the story of a smart, young man from Vallecas who becomes a courier of dirty money, assisting with its timely laundering before being passed to tax havens. The film does not shy away from making references to real characters from press reports and court cases, such as Marbella’s town planning councillor played by José Manuel Poga.
Iconic Locations in “The Courier”
Filmed in the spring of 2023 on the Costa del Sol, “The Courier” takes advantage of a multinational setting with locations in Madrid, Geneva and Brussels. However, the settings that really shine on screen are those of Marbella, including the entrance arch to the town and the legendary Golden Mile.
Star-Studded Cast of “The Courier”
Produced by Vaca Films and distributed by Universal Pictures, the film’s cast also includes María Pedraza, Nourdin Batan, Laura Sépul, and Luis Zahera. Zahera plays a policeman following the trail of corruption, hot on the heels of this gang of luxury criminals.
Release of “The Courier” in Spain
Although Netflix has acquired the international rights to this film and it has become an unexpected success, in Spain we will still have to wait a few days to see it on the small screen, as Movistar+ has the exclusive rights for Spain, releasing “The Courier” on its platform on Friday 24 May.
