“Acapulco” is a family-centered, fun, good-hearted TV series that tells the story of Maximo Gallardo (Eugenio Derbez), who found fame and fortune working at a grand, luxury resort Las Colinas in Acapulco—unfolding through flashbacks of modern-day-times to the 80s.
On a day off from his life as a financial mogul, Maximo welcomes his nephew Hugo (Raphael Alejandro) for a relaxing day. In celebrating his young relative’s birthday, Maximo delights him with the tale of his own teenage days, working at the luxury Las Colinas resort in Acapulco, Mexico. As the show cuts back and forth between present-day and 1984, Maximo slowly introduces his younger self (Enrique Arrizon) to his family members and coworkers.
Childhood friend Memo (Fernando Carsa) helps him navigate life at Las Colinas as he pines after his hopeless crush Julia (Camila Perez). Rivals Hector (Rafael Cebrián) and Chad (Chord Overstreet) do their best to impress the resort’s manager (Damián Alcázar) and the owner (Jessica Collins). After long days keeping a constant slew of poolside guests satisfied, Maximo comes home to his heartfelt mother, Nora (Vanessa Bauche), and spirited younger sister, Sara (Regina Reynoso).
In Max’s story to Hugo, “Acapulco” draws on some clever film and TV elements for generational storytelling. The hazy memory at times is charming, while some details get altered, some dialogue is at times hilariously lip-synced, and a handful of moments play on Hugo’s outlooks. Their banter is enough to create an intriguing story that keeps the viewer hooked.
The language at times is in the native Mexican with English subtitles. This technique adds to the authenticity of the series while paying homage to its culture. What I truly love about the series is seeing the other side of how a resort is run, along with the lobbying for better jobs, problems between staff members, situations with customers, and those wild customer demands. The show creates empathy for all and allows a glimpse to the other side of how much work it takes to please all. Yes, the brightly colored pink facades, gorgeous sunsets, and deep blue of the sparkling sea against the bright rays of sunlight create a beautiful environment—yet without the attentive staff to address one’s every need, it’s just another façade.
I’ve enjoyed the development of the characters and look forward to viewing Season 3 on Apple TV+.
Sarah Knight Adamson© January 7, 2022