Directed by Humberto Hinojosa Ozcáriz (Camino a Marte, Paraiso perdido), Untamed Royals is Netflix’s newest foray into the world of dark drama. The movie centers on a privileged group of young adults who use their wealth and influence to commit heinous acts without consequence. While the premise isn’t entirely novel, it’s one that continues to draw viewers, and Untamed Royals takes this concept to some disturbing depths.
A Gritty Dive into Privilege and Power
The opening moments of Untamed Royals immediately set the tone for what’s to come. We meet Xavier, a young man from an extraordinarily wealthy family, who has been in therapy for two years, though it’s clear that it hasn’t made much of a difference. His detachment from reality becomes evident when he orchestrates a robbery at his own home, with the help of his equally privileged friends. This elaborate setup is just the beginning of a series of dark events that will unfold throughout the movie.
As the story progresses, we are introduced to Officer Rodrigo, who is assigned to investigate the robbery. The film doesn’t shy away from showing the trauma inflicted on the house staff during the staged crime, contrasting sharply with the callousness of Xavier and his friends as they move on to their next target. The narrative also touches on the scapegoating of a former driver, highlighting how easily the rich can manipulate the system to their advantage.
Not for the Faint of Heart
Untamed Royals is not a movie for everyone. It’s heavy, with themes of murder, sex, and dysfunctional relationships woven into a narrative that doesn’t offer much in the way of redemption. If you’re looking for a light, romantic, or uplifting film, this isn’t it. Instead, Untamed Royals is an intense look at the darker side of privilege, where money can buy freedom, but not morality.
The film’s gritty realism might be a bit much for some viewers, especially given its graphic nature. There are moments that are downright uncomfortable to watch, and that’s precisely the point. Untamed Royals doesn’t aim to make you feel good; it aims to make you think—about power, about privilege, and about the societal structures that allow the wealthy to escape justice time and again.
A Reflection on Society
At its core, Untamed Royals offers a sharp critique of the stark divide between the wealthy elite and the working class. Xavier and his friend Gerardo, who stand at the center of the film’s crimes, are emblematic of how the rich can navigate around the law, leaving others to bear the consequences of their actions. The film suggests that, while the rich may evade immediate punishment, their actions create ripples that affect everyone around them.
Final Thoughts
Untamed Royals may not be everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s okay. It’s a challenging watch, full of dark themes and unsettling moments. However, if you’re in the mood for something that’s a bit more thought-provoking and aren’t afraid to confront some uncomfortable truths, it’s worth adding to your weekend watchlist. The story is compelling, the characters are complex, and the film offers enough substance to warrant a discussion after the credits roll.