The Dark Rise of a Notorious Argentine Figure in Netflix’s New Series

From Petty Crime to State Terror

Netflix is set to premiere a gripping new Argentine drama titled Gordon on November 18. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Pablo Trapero, the series features Money Heist star Rodrigo de la Serna in the lead role. The show explores the chilling true story of a man who evolved from a common car thief into a brutal death squad member during Argentina’s turbulent 1970s.

The narrative focuses on the transformation of a petty criminal into a state-sanctioned torturer during the nation's infamous Dirty War. Trapero uses the series to examine how such a perverse psychopath managed to infiltrate the highest levels of power. By tracing his path through the shadows of history, the show provides a harrowing look at institutional corruption and the fragility of morality during state-sponsored violence.

How Did a Criminal Become an Instrument of State Power?

The series meticulously recreates the atmosphere of 1970s Argentina, a time defined by political instability and fear. Rodrigo de la Serna delivers a complex performance, capturing the chilling detachment of a man who traded street crime for systematic human rights abuses. Trapero’s direction emphasizes the psychological decay of the protagonist, refusing to shy away from the brutal reality of his actions as a government operative.

The show challenges viewers to confront the uncomfortable reality of how a society allows such monsters to thrive. By unpacking the protagonist's rise, the series exposes the systemic failures that enabled individuals to weaponize their cruelty under the guise of national security. It serves as a stark reminder of how political regimes can weaponize the criminal underworld to maintain absolute control.

The upcoming release is expected to spark intense debate regarding historical accountability in Argentina. By bringing this dark chapter to a global audience, the series forces a confrontation with the past. It highlights the lasting scars left by those who operated within the death squads, ensuring that the victims of that era are not forgotten.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the central premise of the series? The show follows the life of a car thief who becomes a notorious torturer and death squad member during Argentina’s Dirty War. It examines his rise to power and the societal conditions that allowed his cruelty to flourish.

Who is the primary creative force behind the project? The series is directed by renowned filmmaker Pablo Trapero. It features a lead performance by Rodrigo de la Serna, widely recognized for his role in the global hit Money Heist.