As I began watching this telenovela, I came to quickly realize that it incorporates a large variety of different subplots. If I’m being quite honest, it’s difficult to follow, but this is what makes this story of love and hardship so captivating. The Queen of Flow takes place in Colombia and follows the tenacious story of a woman named Yeimy Montonya who was framed and placed into prison in order for her ex lover, Charly Flow, to have a successful music career. Despite being in jail, the men involved in her demise attempted to kill her during her release. What’s peculiar is that the writers built this sense of anger for the audience to feel, but later on exposed that Montoya isn’t innocent either. This addition is very unique because we aren’t necessarily given the entire story in the beginning like many telenovelas do, which has made this story all the more better. However, as the story continues, I’m noticing the frequent occurrence of the abuse of power.
The first few episodes of The Queen of Flow are flashbacks of how the situation began. It opens with the high schoolers Yeimy, Charly, and Juan who live in a dangerous area overtaken by gangs. Although this story on the surface is about music and the love story between Yeimy and Charly, it underhandedly addresses a larger issue. That women and those less fortunate are particularly affected by gang life. For instance, there have been several instances in the show where women have been forced to appease dangerous men. Such as Charly’s mom repeatedly denying the gang leader Duver’s advances yet still allowing him in her home to keep Charly and herself safe. I believe that these moments are included on purpose to convey that powerful men frequently use their status to control women in difficult situations which is unfortunately commonplace in certain communities. However, this isn’t the only type of power imbalance shown. Yeimy’s parents are forced to pay Duver for protection, yet when they attempt to stop paying, they’re murdered. In Colombia and many other countries, families are constantly living in fear of gangs, but nothing is done. This appears to be inherently due to classism and sexism which is demonstrated by the gangs targeting those affected by these topics.
Despite living in these tough conditions, the teenagers were still full of hopes and dreams. They are passionate about becoming involved in the music industry, however, struggle with both the internal and external battle of gang life, hopelessness, and morality. I’m quite nervous to witness how this story proceeds, seeing that it comes to Yeimy seeking revenge for her dead family and imprisonment. But I look forward to uncovering more themes as the telenovela continues.
Hi Mya,
ReplyDeleteFrom your description of Queen of Flow, I would say that this telenovela "de ruptura" captures the life of a hispanic family in an unfiltered and culturally representative way. It does expose sad truths about living in a Latin American country, but this is a great example of representation in a more diverse context. From what you have discussed, it seems like Queen of Flow shows a large part of the issues we see in many Latin American families. A lot of times households are are comprised of single mothers that work tirelessly to provide for their families. Kids often grow up in rough areas and become involved in crime as a way to obtain things they don't necessarily have within reach, and this is where the gang activity shows up, especially in countries such as Colombia. I feel like telenovelas that include the topic of gangs and crime can sometimes give an outsider the illusion that this is what happens in all hispanic countries; however, I always appreciate the fight and the unwavering hope that, in my eyes, always triumph. Themes such as classism and sexism can also be seen in different countries around the world, and aren't just limited to Latin America. I am curious to know what happens with Yeimy and her mission to seek revenge for her family and imprisonment.
Hi Mya!
ReplyDeleteYour telenovela seems super interesting! With a lot of subplots, it can be hard to follow but as things develop and tie together it all usually ends up being worth it. You brought up gangs in the show and the effect they have on the character’s living situations and general character dynamics. This is so important to, on one hand, bring light to the economic situations many are living in. Being in low-income areas overrun by gangs plagues corners of the world and as your telenovela shows, affects the youth. Not only this but power dynamics with men is a huge factor in this. As you mentioned, these dangerous men had power over women living in the area. Using a telenovela to shine a light on this is so important since many people are unaware of or ignore these situations. By bringing awareness to these situations, it’s possible that people are more likely to come together and do something about it.