**Intriguing Periphery**
By Victor Delgado
Recently added to the streaming giant Netflix, “Los Reyes de Oriente,” created by Leticia López Margalli, delves into the familial bonds and friendships set against the vibrant backdrop of Iztapalapa, one of Mexico’s most renowned neighborhoods. The six-episode series, featuring actors Joshua Okamoto, Ingrid Águila, and Elías Toscano, explores themes of forbidden romance, intrigue, drama, and crime.
“Iztapalapa is essentially a main character in this series,” noted Okamoto, who plays “Javi,” one of three friends reigning over a bustling neighborhood until a tragedy pits two of them against each other. “There’s a tendency to portray these areas from a judgmental and stereotypical viewpoint. In ‘Los Reyes de Oriente,’ we aimed to bring the periphery to the forefront, making it the center and protagonist of the story,” Okamoto explained.
The show intricately weaves themes of betrayal and the testing of friendships and familial ties, with the geography of Iztapalapa playing a significant role. “The betrayals and secrets push friendships and family bonds to their limits. The geographic setting is critical to the narrative, written as a love letter to the neighborhood while aiming to explore other Mexican stories,” concluded Okamoto.
**Additional News on the Topic**
*New Netflix Series Puts Focus on Mexico’s Iztapalapa and the Realities of Life in the Periphery*
Another recent piece on “Los Reyes de Oriente” highlights the show’s unique focus on Iztapalapa, an area often depicted unfavorably in media. The series breaks away from these stereotypes, offering a compelling narrative driven by genuine characters and real-life challenges. With its premiere on Netflix, the show is set to bring international attention to the dynamics and culture of this deeply misunderstood neighborhood.
According to Ingrid Águila, “The series not only brings out the essence of Iztapalapa but also sheds light on the universal themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. It’s a story that resonates beyond borders.”
Elías Toscano also shared his insights, emphasizing the importance of authentic storytelling. “We’re telling a story that many can relate to, whether they’re familiar with Iztapalapa or not. It’s about representing a reality that’s often overlooked,” Toscano mentioned.
With its blend of intense drama and heartfelt moments, “Los Reyes de Oriente” stands to redefine how audiences perceive marginalized neighborhoods, aiming to foster understanding and empathy through its compelling storytelling.