George Clooney Said Every Episode of Narcos ‘Was Like The Godfather’

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George Clooney is a highly respected figure in Hollywood, and people listen when he recommends something. When he recently called a particular show his all-time favorite, it immediately grabbed the attention of both viewers and critics. The show, a gripping crime drama on Netflix, tells the story of the powerful and dangerous drug cartels of Colombia and their eventual downfall.

Praised by critics (with an 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes) and beloved by viewers, Narcos feels more like a compelling film than a typical TV series. George Clooney’s comparison to The Godfather is fitting – the show boasts intricate storylines, characters with complex motivations, and a consistently building sense of suspense. Narcos expertly blends a focused, dramatic approach with real-life events, proving that television can be a truly sophisticated and impactful art form.

Narcos Delivers Fast-Paced, Cinematic Storytelling

The show stands out from typical films and TV series. Its grand visuals, dramatic music, and deliberate speed don’t lend themselves to quick, casual viewing. While each episode tells its own story, it also builds toward a complex, layered narrative full of strategy and intense emotional moments. Similar to The Godfather, the show goes beyond simply depicting crime; it delves into the workings of power, the bonds of loyalty, the sting of betrayal, and the heavy price of pursuing one’s goals.

The show Narcos feels incredibly authentic thanks to its detailed sets, on-location filming, and realistic portrayal of events. The setting—from the busy streets of Medellín to the dangerous jungles where cocaine is made—almost feels like another character in the story. Directors José Padilha and Fernando Coimbra, both with backgrounds in documentary filmmaking, bring a raw and intense energy to the series, as George Clooney observed, noting that ‘Every episode was .

I was completely captivated by Wagner Moura’s performance as Pablo Escobar. He didn’t just play a villain; he showed me a complex human being. It was unsettling to see Escobar as a father and someone who genuinely helped people, all while knowing the terrible things he did. It really stuck with me. And then there’s Pedro Pascal as Javier Peña. He wasn’t the typical ‘good guy’ chasing the bad guy. He felt…lost, like the world he was in was slowly chipping away at his beliefs. He wasn’t a hero, but he wasn’t a villain either – just a man struggling to do his job in a truly gray area.

Narcos Tells the True Story of Colombian Kingpin Pablo Escobar

Based on true events, including declassified DEA reports and interviews with people involved, Narcos realistically dramatizes the fight against drugs. George Clooney probably appreciates the show’s skill in making large-scale political events feel personal through its characters. While Pablo Escobar’s story is famous, Narcos goes further by showing how the drug trade operated and the devastating impact it had on people’s lives.

The show offers a fresh take on historical events, whether portraying Escobar’s violent conflicts with authorities or his strange existence as a prisoner in La Catedral. By mixing actual footage, news coverage, and narration from DEA agent Steve Murphy, it intentionally mixes reality and storytelling. The show feels more authentic thanks to its use of both English and Spanish, and it avoids simplifying the story to appeal to a wider American audience.

Both shows delve into complex issues of power, corruption, and the systems that enable them. Like its counterpart, Narcos explores the complicated world of Latin American politics, the impact of U.S. involvement, and how violence tends to repeat itself. It highlights how groups like drug cartels, governments, and the police become connected and contribute to the ongoing drug war. Rather than presenting a simple story of heroes and villains, Narcos asks viewers to think critically about the social and political factors that drive events, like drug seizures and changes in leadership.

Performances That Elevate the Material

The show also features outstanding acting that truly makes Narcos memorable. Wagner Moura’s performance as Pablo Escobar is especially remarkable – a standout portrayal of a criminal leader. Moura, a Brazilian actor, completely committed to the role, learning Spanish and undergoing a significant physical and emotional transformation. He masterfully balances the character’s threatening side with moments of surprising vulnerability, making for a truly captivating performance.

Javier Peña’s character is just as compelling, launching the actor to fame. Pascal portrays Peña as a tired and serious man, battling not only the cartel but also his own disappointment with American foreign policy. This creates a powerful connection between him and Wagner Moura’s character, becoming the emotional heart of the show, particularly as the difference between the police and criminals becomes less clear.

Narcos Was a Turning Point in Modern TV Storytelling

When George Clooney says Narcos is one of his favorite shows, he’s acknowledging a big change in how we consume stories. Increasingly, some of the most compelling narratives are found on streaming services, and this show is a great illustration of that trend.

Narcos broke new ground in television by telling a global story in a fresh way. It gave a platform to perspectives and locations that are rarely featured. When George Clooney compared it to The Godfather, he recognized a show that truly embodies the hallmarks of excellent storytelling.

The show is globally popular, culturally important, and beautifully made, solidifying its place as one of the best ever created. Similar to The Godfather, it provides a raw and insightful exploration of the most hidden aspects of what people want.

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Test Your Narcos Knowledge: From Escobar’s Empire to Clooney’s Praise
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2026-02-19 23:09