Two Graves Netflix Review: Is the Miniseries Format a Mistake?

Netflix has released a new Spanish-language mystery titled “Two Graves.” The show is directed by Kike Maillo. It premiered on the streaming platform on May 17th. The story follows the disappearance of two teenage girls in a coastal town.

The police quickly close the unsolved case. A determined grandmother then launches her own investigation. The series has sparked debate over its unusual three-episode format. Many viewers are questioning if it works as a miniseries.

A Promising Premise That Loses Its Way

The plot centers on two friends, Veronica and Marta. They vanish after a local party. Marta is later found dead, but Veronica is never seen again. The official investigation stalls and is shelved.

Veronica’s grandmother, Isabel, refuses to give up. She begins her own search for the truth. Her quest uncovers dark secrets in the small community. The story touches on themes of justice and sacrifice.

However, the narrative feels rushed and uneven. The first two episodes move slowly with little payoff. The final episode then delivers a flood of information. This pacing makes the central twist feel unearned and confusing.

The Problem With The Three-Episode Structure

The main criticism of “Two Graves” is its format. It is presented as a miniseries but feels like a stretched-out movie. A feature film runtime would have suited this story better. The three episodes create an awkward rhythm.

According to industry analysis, this trend is common on streaming services. Platforms sometimes extend content to keep subscribers engaged longer. But this approach can hurt storytelling. Character development and plot depth often suffer.

In this case, the format prevents deeper exploration of its themes. Complex issues like police failure and organized crime are introduced briefly. They are never fully explored or resolved in a satisfying way.

Strong Performances Cannot Save The Story

The cast delivers capable performances despite the material. Kiti Manver stands out as the grieving yet resilient grandmother, Isabel. She carries the emotional weight of the entire production.

Alvaro Morte, known from “Money Heist,” plays a lead detective. His character remains frustratingly stoic and underdeveloped. Hovik Keuchkerian has a compelling role as a feared gangster. His screen time is too limited to make a significant impact.

The direction and cinematography are competent. They effectively capture the mood of the Spanish setting. Ultimately, the pieces do not come together into a cohesive whole.

Thought you’d like to know

What is ‘Two Graves’ on Netflix about?

It is a Spanish mystery about two girls who disappear after a party. One is found dead, and the other is missing. The story follows the missing girl’s grandmother as she investigates on her own.

How many episodes are in ‘Two Graves’?

The series consists of only three episodes. Each episode is approximately 45 to 50 minutes long. The entire story is told within this limited run.

Is ‘Two Graves’ based on a true story?

No, ‘Two Graves’ is not based on actual events. It is a fictional narrative created by screenwriter Agustin Martinez. The story is set in the fictional town of Frigiliana, Spain.

Why are viewers criticizing the show?

Many critics say the story is too thin for three episodes. They argue it would have been better as a single movie. The pacing is slow, and the final reveal feels rushed.

Who are the main actors in the cast?

The series stars Kiti Manver as Isabel and Alvaro Morte as Inspector Zaera. Hovik Keuchkerian also features in a key supporting role. The cast is composed of seasoned Spanish actors.

Is ‘Two Graves’ worth watching?

It may appeal to fans of slow-burn European mysteries. Viewers seeking a complex, character-driven story may be disappointed. The short runtime makes it a low-time-investment watch.