Las Azules - Season 1

Following the success of Lessons in Chemistry and its numerous Emmy nominations, Apple TV+ introduces a new feminist historical drama: Las Azules. Set in 1970s Mexico, this series tells the inspiring story of the country’s first female police officers. Faced with a serial killer targeting women, the Mexican government seeks to distract the terrified public with a bold initiative: what better way to demonstrate control and save the image of the police than by appointing women as police officers? In Las Azules (or Women in Blue), we follow four women who enlist, each driven by their own motivations but united in their desire to improve their society. Maria (Bárbara Mori, Rubí) is a housewife who has long dreamed of being a detective, yet is stuck in an unhappy marriage. Her sister Valentina (Natalia Téllez, Montserrat) is an activist, protesting corruption and violence against women, while navigating a tumultuous relationship with a journalist. Angeles (Ximena Sariñana) is a forensic scientist who feels like she could do more, but also struggles to find her place in the world and connect with others. Finally, Gabina (Amorita Rasgado) comes from a large family of police officers and aspires to join their ranks to show that she is just as much a police officer as they are.

These four women are ready to take on the world, but the world is not ready to be taken on by them

These four women end up in the same team, ready to take on the world. It, however, quickly becomes apparent that the world is not ready to be taken on by them. Instead of a gun, they get a whistle to alert ‘real’ police officers of any danger. Instead of a practical uniform, they get tight skirts which seem designed to make the officers eye-candy, rather than to be agile. And instead of engaging in meaningful police work, they find themselves directing tourists to museums, sorting files, and answering phones—far from the responsibilities they had envisioned.

Meanwhile, the serial killer known as El Encuerador continues his spree. The women become increasingly invested in the case and decide to pursue it on their own, operating in secrecy as the rest of the police force shows little interest in their contributions.



This season therefore intertwines three narratives: the pursuit of El Encuerador, the women’s struggle for recognition within the police force, and the impact of their work on their personal lives, as not everyone in their circles supports their new roles.

These storylines are well integrated; while distinct, they overlap and interact meaningfully. For my taste, the serial killer story line could have had a bit more of a presence in the first few episodes, but when it finally gains traction about halfway through the season, it is intriguing. Especially episode eight was done well, mixing past with present, finally providing us with some answers.

Character development could have been stronger however: the four leads often feel somewhat one-dimensional, especially at the outset. While Maria and Valentina experience some growth, it leans toward predictability. Gabina and Angeles, moreover, remain rather flat. There was certainly potential for deeper exploration.

Although Women in Blue follows a well-trodden path, it does so with finesse

Overall, the series does not excel in originality, as many plotlines and character types feel familiar. For instance, the police academy training scenes have been depicted countless times before. Nevertheless, Las Azules remains highly enjoyable. Although it follows a well-trodden path, it does so with finesse. The cast effectively brings their roles to life, and the cinematography captures the essence of the 70s, both nostalgic and troubling. The serial killer storyline, while not groundbreaking, adds a compelling layer to the narrative and was executed well.

If you're seeking a feminist series that highlights women fighting for their place in the world, Las Azules is worth a watch. The season concludes by resolving the Encuerador case, yet leaves the door open for a potential second season. Here’s hoping for more!