Netflix’s ‘The Gardener’ Shoots to #1: Dexter Meets Dark Romance in Hitman Thriller

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A fresh thriller series has just debuted on , and it’s already garnering praise and climbing the charts to become one of the top 10 shows on the streaming platform. Comparable to timeless thrillers like Dexter, introduces us to Elmer, a man who, following an accident, loses the ability to feel emotions. Taking advantage of this predicament, Elmer’s mother molds him into a professional killer. However, complications arise when he develops feelings for his upcoming target…

I’m thrilled to share that my recent pick, “The Gardener,” premiered on Netflix towards the end of last week, and it’s been a phenomenal ride ever since! It has soared to the top globally, and in the US, it’s sitting comfortably at position #3. This means it’s sharing the limelight with other blockbuster streaming shows like “Pulse,” the captivating medical drama, the cultural sensation known as “Adolescence,” and the latest season of “Black Mirror.” I couldn’t be happier about this!

Originating from Miguel Sáez Carral, the series titled “The Gardener” or “El jardinero” delves into a romantic-thriller narrative. The lead role of Elmer is played by Álvaro Rico, who’s known for his work in “Elite“. In this production, Cecilia Suárez, recognized from “The House of Flowers“, portrays La China Jurado, Elmer’s mother. Catalina Sopelana, a familiar face from “Sky Rojo” and “Entrevías“, takes on the character Violeta. The ensemble cast also includes Emma Suárez, María Vázquez, and Francis Lorenzo. Six gripping episodes of “The Gardener” are now available for streaming on Netflix, with the official synopsis provided below.

In a nutshell, “The Gardener” narrative revolves around Elmer and his mother, La China Jurado, who manages a seemingly ordinary garden center. However, this business is merely a cover for a flourishing illegal enterprise – contract killings. With an accident leaving him devoid of emotions, killing comes naturally to Elmer. Yet, during the planning stages of murdering Violet, a sweet nursery school teacher, he unexpectedly develops feelings for her. As his mother plots to end Violet’s life, Elmer grapples with learning how to love.

‘The Gardener’ Is Perfect for Fans of Netflix’s Other Original Thrillers

It’s easy to see the resemblance between these characters, as they both possess the capacity to kill and are influenced by their parents. However, there is a significant distinction in their motives: Dexter targets evil-doers, while Elmer is manipulated by his mother to kill anyone she deems necessary. For those seeking a comparable series or simply one about an assassin gardener, “The Gardener” is definitely worth checking out if it scratches that particular entertainment itch for you.

Initial responses for the show “The Gardener” are starting to roll in, and they’re a bit varied. Joel Keller from Decider commented that although there are some far-fetched aspects in “The Gardener”, these elements are rooted enough in reality to make them appear credible. The more realistic this series seems, the more enjoyable it will be, according to him. On the other hand, Karina “ScreamQueen” Adelgaard from Heaven of Horror had higher expectations, stating that she anticipated something more (or simply different) than what “The Gardener” offers. This may have influenced her overall impression. She encourages viewers to give it a try on Netflix, approaching it with an open mind as you might find it more entertaining than she did.

Ultimately, according to Mary Kassel from Screen Rant, the series “The Gardener” might have been more effective as a film rather than a television show. However, she noted that admirers of Netflix’s other original suspenseful and emotional thrillers and dramas should find it straightforward to immerse themselves in Netflix’s newest TV crime drama. In summary, her opinion suggests that the story could have been stronger on the big screen, but fans of Netflix’s similar productions should enjoy this new television offering.

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2025-04-15 16:03