The Coyotes is a thrilling and heartwarming drama show starring Michael Chiklis that premiered on Netflix in 2021. It follows the story of Ben Clemens, a retired border patrol agent, who is forced to return to the border between Mexico and the United States to repay a debt he owes to a young Mexican woman, who had saved his life years before. The debt involve smuggling her and her son across the border into the US. But things quickly take a turn when Ben discovers that the woman and her son are not the only ones he is helping to cross over illegally.
As the story progresses, The Coyotes delves deeper into the complexities of immigration and border control and paints a realistic picture of the challenges faced by both immigrants and the officers meant to stop them from crossing the border. Unlike most shows on the topic, The Coyotes manages to create a balance between the two sides and portray all its characters as real people, complete with their flaws and motivations. The show's creators have done an excellent job of giving an unbiased view of the situation while still creating a show that is entertaining and suspenseful.
Michael Chiklis gives an outstanding performance as Ben Clemens, a troubled protagonist caught between his loyalty to his country and his desire to make amends for his past mistakes. Throughout the show, Chiklis brings depth and complexity to his character, making him relatable and endearing even in situations where he makes morally questionable decisions.
Meanwhile, the supporting cast of The Coyotes shines just as bright as its lead, with a wide range of characters that all feel authentic and compelling. Juan Diego Botto is particularly noteworthy as a charismatic and dangerous coyote who guides people across the border illegally. He brings a layer of intensity and humanity to his character that makes him a scene-stealer and a fantastic antagonist for Ben.
The Coyotes' cinematography also deserves special mention, with stunning shots of the harsh landscapes that border the US and Mexico. The show's use of light and color is exceptional, creating a vivid and immersive experience that really brings the setting to life. In addition, the action sequences are well-choreographed, and the sound design is superb, adding to the show's tension and realism.
Overall, The Coyotes is a compelling and exciting drama that tackles an enormously complex and controversial topic with respect and nuance. The show balances its themes of morality, loyalty, and redemption with action and suspense, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the topic of immigration or just good storytelling. Its strong performances, stunning cinematography, and engrossing story make it a standout addition to Netflix's ever-growing catalog of original shows.
The Coyotes is a series that ran for 1 seasons (6 episodes) between December 2, 2021 and on Netflix