Baby Bandito is a Chilean heist drama television series that premiered on Netflix on January 31, 2024. Inspired by the infamous 2014 heist in Santiago, Chile, where $10 million was stolen from an armored truck, the series combines elements of crime, drama, and social commentary to craft a modern and gripping story.
The series is directed by Julio Jorquera Arriagada, Fernando Guzzoni, and Pepa San MartΓn, with writing credits to Diego MuΓ±oz and contributions from Juan AndrΓ©s Rivera, Luis PΓ©rez GarcΓa, and Valeria Hofmann. Produced by Fabula, a renowned Chilean production company, Baby Bandito explores not only the mechanics of a major heist but also the personal struggles, relationships, and moral dilemmas faced by the characters in its aftermath.
The story follows Kevin Tapia (played by NicolΓ‘s Contreras), a skilled skateboarder from a lower-income neighborhood in Santiago, Chile. Frustrated by the economic hardships and inequality faced by his community, Kevin gathers a diverse and talented crew of misfits to pull off the biggest heist in Chilean history. Dubbed the βBaby Banditosβ by the media, the group plans and executes the robbery of an armored truck, stealing millions of dollars in a daring and meticulously coordinated operation.
However, the story doesnβt end with the heist. After the initial thrill of their success, the crew faces mounting challenges. Reckless love, greed, internal conflicts, and the lure of social media begin to unravel their tight-knit group. As their newfound wealth brings attention and scrutiny, they must navigate betrayal, suspicion, and the consequences of their actions.
The narrative intertwines the adrenaline of the heist with deeply personal stories, offering a nuanced look at how crime impacts individuals, their relationships, and their communities. It also raises questions about systemic inequality, justice, and the lengths people will go to escape their circumstances.
Critics have praised Baby Bandito for its dynamic storytelling and social relevance. The series has been lauded for its strong performances, particularly by NicolΓ‘s Contreras and Francisca Armstrong, who bring depth and complexity to their roles.