A Perfect Story (2023) User Reviews

I loved watching these two fall in love...but it was the strangest ending I have ever seen for a rom-com.

[cgvsluis · 8/10 · 2 August 2023]

Anna Castillo is wonderful as Margot and Álvaro Mel is equally wonderful as David. These two have amazing chemistry in this slow burn romance that starts out as a mutually beneficial relationship that turns into genuine friendship and then love.

As a romantic I enjoyed every minute of these two falling in love and I also enjoyed the celebration (even though it was joked about) of a heteronormative relationship. It was sweet and natural and young and fresh and I think romantics like me will love it.

The cast was appropriately small, which gave the story an intimate feel, particularly on the vacation in Greece. David is a carefree character who lives on his best friend's couch, has three part-time jobs and just got dumped by the lovely but shallow Idoia. Margot is a repressed heiress who is being patronized in the boardroom and literally runs away from her wedding and controlling mother after a panic attack. These two meet by chance in a bar, when Margot's sisters take her out dancing. David, as the bar tender, kindly fills her shot glass with water...when her sister's ignore her "no" and insist they all do shots together. When Margot picks up her drunk sister's phone at the bar the next day...she witnesses Idoia's strange pull on David and steps in to help as a good deed. This begins a beautiful friendship. The two agree to help each other get their significant others back, which includes Margot helping David become an adult and David helping Margot loosen up.

These two really light up the screen with their chemistry and the gorgeous Greek backdrop sets the mood for their developing feelings. The sets and wardrobe were well done and it was fun to see a neighborhood festival in Spain. In the end I liked that the message wasn't about beauty or money...although I think both David and Margot are beautiful.

My one and only note is that the ending was the oddest ending I have ever seen for a romantic comedy and it left some confusion for certain watchers as to what actually happen at the end. I think romantics will love this limited run series based on the books by Elisabet Benavent (which I wish they would translate into English!), I strongly recommend.

This review is based on watching the series in it's original Spanish language with English subtitles.

Relaxing and funny series

[jmjqpry · 8/10 · 22 August 2023]

This play uses a lot of parallel narration to tell stories which provides us, audiences, rich possibilities. But every coin has two sides, This makes the whole viewing experience not smooth, although it adds a lot of content that the audience will imagine. Although it is an old-fashioned plot, it ignores some practical situations with artistic methods, which makes the whole play obviously layered. You can clearly know that these quisistic moments are just a dream after all, and we will eventually return to reality. The last episode of the play uses the last few minutes to force the time to give the audience a happy ending, but the so-called bad ending is more likely to be a real ending. So in this play, you can have romantic reverie and heartbreaking but realistic choices. But generally it's a qualified tv and I love it.

Decisions and communication

[glori1491 · 8/10 · 19 August 2023]

This series begins with a first chapter in which many viewers can stop watching it, since it is very slow, boring, with an actress of Margarita with very little expression, even with a little bad acting, however later we see that she wanted to demonstrate How did Margarita feel in those moments? This series teaches us that the main problem in human relations is the lack of communication, since they teach us many situations where Margarita wants to say something but doesn't, be it with her mother, at work, with her sisters and mainly with David. , to the point of how we see in one of the endings separating for not communicating. It also shows us how David believes that he cannot be with Margarita due to his economic level. It is a journey of self-knowledge, David shows Margarita to free herself a little, she arrived at the right time, they both came together in a moment of vulnerability. Actually, my favorite ending was the second one, even though it is the most cliché, but I liked that they gave 2 endings, since it teaches us how a decision can change an entire destiny. It is a series that entertains and makes time pass, I have not read the book, but I read that it is more similar to the book. I liked that they were not based so much on sex scenes, which is seen a lot now in Spanish series, and I liked that it had a closure. David looked a lot like Andrew Garfield to me.

If you like series about romance, this is for you, otherwise don't come close.

A beautiful love story containing all the right stuff

[Stephen_SJ · 10/10 · 9 August 2023]

In summary, I loved this series. I used to be a huge rom com fan but moved away from them of late as few drew me into the characters or story. This was the opposite. I immediately liked David and Margo and was rooting for them both. Alvaro Mel and Anna Castillo were perfection in their roles. Their chemistry was spot on. I believed the friendship, the lust and the love. Some of the "embarrassment" scenes were the best- things that happen in real life but not often seen in rom coms. I tend to find European love stories to be more realistic as they are less afraid to tackle uncomfortable topics. It did not overplay the drama so it was a feel good movie to watch and left you happy and wanting more than the five episodes. I also love the concept explored about how small decisions can change everything. It's fascinating, a bit scary and oh so true. So in summary, it's funny, it's romantic, it's well written and directed, it's well acted, the leads are adorable with great chemistry. See it! Also, I seldom leave 10 star reviews and I don't know anyone involved in the making of the series, although I wish I did. If you love romance, watch it and enjoy!

Edit: I am adding this as an edit after reading some of the other reviews. Several reviews discussed confusion over alternate ending. For some reason, I wasn't confused at all. Maybe it's just my interpretation but the ending in my mind was the one where David went after her and did not let her get away. The explanation for the prior scenario was given - exploring the concept of how a small decision ( like if David chose not to go after her) would have changed everything ( think the movie Sliding Doors). I think this was not random as the concept was explored in more minor ways throughout the movie when we caught glimpses of what they wanted to say to each other but were afraid to and then where showed what they actually said instead. Those decisions affected the path of their relationship -generally delaying its progression. Ultimately if David let his fear overtake him and didn't pursue her, we got to see how that would have played out. But he grew emotionally and did not let that happen. So that's just my take. I guess the beautiful thing about art is everyone can interpret it in their own way.

Just what I needed!

[antonijagranic · 10/10 · 20 August 2023]

This emotional, funny, intriguing and passionate mini series is exactly what I needed this summer. Cast is amazing, chemistry between Margot & David inspiring and contagious.

Double ending made good point how life is all about little things, and those create our destiny. There is quite few hot scenes that added some edge to the story, but those were made with a good taste, not too much, not too little. For me personally actors succeeded to transfer energy and fire through the screen. I wish there was season 2 but also everything what needed to be told is told. I recommend to everyone who is into beautiful summer romance story.

Great chemistry very confusing ending.

[dsjohnson-62250 · 9/10 · 3 August 2023]

Enjoyed this a lot but the ending was really weird.

The chemistry between the two leads was off the charts and the dialogue felt extremely natural and even in non dialogue scenes these two looked like they were really into each other and that made you buy into the romance all the more.

Now for the weird stuff. Throughout the entire series they used the device of having the two characters say what they were really feeling only to cut back and reveal they were only thinking that and not really saying it. Sometimes this was very clear and other times it was very confusing (I watched the Spanish version with English subtitles so maybe was more clear for Spanish speakers). This all culminates with a baffling final half hour where they takes this tactic to the max only to pull back and go a different way entirely. Very strange.

That being said this was still very good and is relatively quick watch.

Big things depend on small decisions

[kovaxbela-33962 · 10/10 · 9 August 2023]

This series is a reminder of how small things can make a big difference. If someone tells me to watch a movie about how a poor boy and a rich girl fall in love, I'd rather find an excuse. The film is first and foremost incredibly good because the characters immediately creep into your heart, even the most negative ones. The film was also brave in that it repeatedly showed how much sooner the romance could have been born or how easily it could have been broken off forever by an insignificant little decision, comment or lack thereof.

We knew from the first moment that the film was going to have a happy ending, so we were able to enjoy the journey all the way through, how the two young people struggle, first and foremost with themselves, to get there.

Slow burn perfection

[banananatime · 8 August 2023]

The alternate ending doesn't really matter to me, as I see it does for some people. I personally think it's just supposed to show people how impactful each of their actions are in life. Regardless, these two people have a lovely friendship AND more, and it's beautiful to watch. Not to mention, the actors are literally perfect and it felt so wonderful to watch them... I kept thinking to myself that I hope this book is translated into English because I really love slow-burn romances and considering this was made into a 5 part Netflix series it's probably a worthwhile book to read as well. The scenery was nothing to complain about for the movie though ;)

Trully a perfect story!

[veljcomp · 10/10 · 3 August 2023]

I loved how, for a change, a cute couple doesn't end up in bed having sex after their first date.. or second... or third!

This, as in real life, makes these things much more interesting, exciting and worth living for!

The actors did a great job as if they were in love the whole time while filming it.

Those who lived and felt something similar will love it!

Those who didn't, will hopefully learn what they should be looking for!

The creators of this great TV show are definetely in the first of these 2 groups!

A vast majority of these stories is cheesy, too romantic and fake. These guys made it real, lovely and, as the title itself says it, perfect - 10/10, ending included!

Not a perfect story

[milly_ele · 5/10 · 11 August 2023]

The 5 star rating is because the filming locations were perfect. I hate to be a Debbie downer, but I couldn't follow this love story. The runaway bride leaves her handsome and successful fiancée, who loves her and she seems to love for a couch surfing bum. It's not realistic and there was nothing leading up to the reasons why she left her fiancée. They made him out to be a good guy so I had trouble following the whole thing. I understand the couch surfer's reasons for leaving his girlfriend, but he was no catch himself. And why were there 2 endings? It's not like this was played in the movie theater and 2 endings were needed so as to not spoil it.

Loved this romcom

[sharylea · 9/10 · 4 August 2023]

Loved this mini series. The two lead characters were fabulous. They felt genuine and I laughed and felt their sadness during their conflict. Although others didn't like the ending, I was just relieved that there was a different possible ending otherwise it would have felt unfinished. But possibly also more realistic. Who hasn't walked away instead of saying what you truly feel? Fantastic chemistry. Well worth binging.

Also the English dubbing was well done. Sometimes it is obvious but this series the voices worked well with the visuals.

It's a shame that I've finished it. I wonder how long I should way before watching it again...

Should have been called A Frustrating Story

[apriljudithking · 5 August 2023]

Im all for creating unique romcoms but this one just took a frustrating turn. When the world is hard enough in which to find your person and then these two actually do, they spend the majority of the film talking themselves OUT of being with each other. It's beyond frustrating to watch and I find myself just getting angrier and angrier.

Also, why she would choose the stagnant man child who does zero growing throughout the entire film and kicks up a fuss over a stupid shirt is beyond me.

I'm just glad it was only 5 episodes. By the fifth I was ready to call it quits.

I will give them props for the gorgeous locations.

It's like a great adaptation of a book you want to star in

[mccabe-shannon · 9/10 · 11 August 2023]

This show is so adorable! I'm a huge fan of rom coms and beach reads and this is perfect in that genre.

The casting is really well done. They have great chemistry and play their respective parts really well but are also better together. The direction is also great.

If you want good scenery- this is for you! The scene set ups are gorgeous.

It's bit of a slow burn. It's only 5 episodes but goes fast. But you really feel it. So I get the oxymoron of slow burn fast show ha. But you'll get it.

There are some things I'm not 100% on but that's to be expected. I'm not sure if it's being an American audience or just in general. I did spend a summer in Madrid forever ago so there is some nostalgia but very little shown, more so just the feeling. Some of the hairstyles and clothes are definitely more European.

It's adorable. The dubbing isn't great. But it's not distracting when you get into it.

A few complaints- the alternate endings don't translate as well with dubbing, but even if the did it should have been another episode. Like oh penultimate "what could have happened" and last "what does".

I get sad when something I love ends that's so clearly wrapped up as a miniseries. I really just wanted more. They rushed a lot near the end.

I'd say we got to see why his relationship wasn't great but didn't know her reasoning til the end. Had I known more upfront it would have kept me from conjectures that made me not pay attention. The beginning makes me root for them.

But again, so great. Definitely worth like 4 hours of your time!

Contract Love Story Between 2 Strangers

[PalmBeachG · 8/10 · 18 August 2023]

Typical love story that involves a contract via a handshake and a promise to help each other get back together with their significant others. Starting off as strangers first, then friends who don't lie to each other, then lovers when they cross the line and they create a mess for both of their lives. Also typical love story between the rich girl and the poor guy (but he doesn't know she is rich until after he falls in love). The poor leading man is very lovable and positive despite all of his shortcomings that you can't help but love his character and he did a great job acting his role. Not sure about the ending- thought it could have been better.

What was that

[ssheikh_11 · 3/10 · 11 August 2023]

Perhaps my 37 year old brain is getting too old to understand what 20 something year olds go through in their love lives but the lead Margot was the most self obsessed narcistic woman I have ever seen on screen. It was basically watching her self victimize herself despite the fact she had everything and then fall for a man who needs hand holding to start life as an adult. Not to mention the fact she is technically having an affair with this 'soulmate'. Absolutely no moral compass whatsoever. Why an audience needs to care about either of them will always remain a mystery or perhaps the era of having characters with empathy as a trait is just gone.

Weird Ending

[canali-911-638429 · 5/10 · 20 August 2023]

At the beginning I thought it was an interesting series to watch and continued until the end. The pictures were good enough to cherish my weekend but the story was a bit unconvincing. I did not get what they wanted to do with 2 endings. Also I did not get why she chose to run away from the wedding, her relationship with muscular man and we did not see the confused mind as well explained. I would recommend to watch it for good visuals and that is why I gave 5 stars. Acting was okish. The increasing number of women in the board members was one of today's popular topics and it was good to see this as a message.

Bad casting!

[eclecticstays · 3/10 · 13 August 2023]

Whoever did the casting must be either drunk or blind! As if any normal woman would leave the absolutely perfect Mario Ermito for the eminently forgettable and nondescript actor who plays the leading man? I was going to stop watching this incredibly long and boring torture, and only stayed because the action moved to Greece.

The problem is that the scenario is pathetic and the actors are so miscast, that they can't redeem it. For example, the 3 sisters are supposed to be Spanish heiresses to a billionaire? Please! . So, honestly don't lose your time on this absurd and excruciatingly lackluster "comedy".

A Perfect Story - of two Annoying People

[deesestone · 1/10 · 25 February 2024]

David and Margot - two annoying and unfaithful people who delude themselves into thinking they are not disloyal and unfaithful to their so-called loves. Off they go to Spain kissing and hugging and turning each other on, dancing (very badly by the way). Cavorting in the waves naked, without actually doing the dirty but hey, that's unfaithful in my books, who are they kidding? She's rich, he's not, I skipped over most of the episodes so don't know how or when he found out, but he feels he has to prove himself, so opens a flower shop as that is where he seems to have acquired some skills. Is there an alternative ending and we see both? Not sure and who cares.

4/10, don't like the message it's sending to the people.

[Jonathannba1234 · 13 December 2023]

Ok hear me out, I'm totally with women and how they should choose to what to do with their lives and what to do with their bodies and whatnot, BUT these movies are sending the wrong messages to the women nowadays.

This isn't the first tv show/movie that is glorifying women cheating and finding a better guy to find "happiness" and not even caring about their spouse/boyfriend or even her family or kids.

On the other hand, I haven't seen a single movie that glorifies a man cheating on his spouse/girlfriend. It's because they always trying to demonize men who cheat. SO BUT WHY IS IT PORTRAYED ROMANTIC AND BEAUTIFUL FOR A WOMAN TO CHEAT ON HER SPOUSE/BOYFRIEND AND NOT AN EVIL ACT?

A Visual Escape Hindered by Predictability and Poor Execution

[a_gegundez · 5/10 · 29 August 2023]

If you're in search of a TV series that offers picturesque landscapes and stunning photography, look no further. This Spanish show boasts captivating locations that transport viewers to charming vistas, making it a saving grace in an otherwise lackluster viewing experience. Unfortunately, that's where the positives end.

The series falls flat due to its laughably ridiculous and overly sentimental storyline. From the very beginning, it becomes painfully apparent that originality and creativity were not priorities during its development. The plot unfolds predictably, leaving little room for surprises or engaging twists that could have redeemed the show.

One of the most disappointing aspects is the lead actor's performance and the characterization of the protagonist. The acting feels forced and unnatural, failing to establish any connection between the viewer and the character. This lack of authenticity leads to a cringe-worthy experience, leaving you questioning the casting choices and character development.

In the end, despite the show's potential to provide an entertaining escape through its stunning visuals, it ultimately fails to deliver on multiple fronts. The glaring issues with the storyline, acting, and character development overshadow the picturesque settings, rendering them almost insignificant. Regrettably, this series becomes a prime example of wasted potential and a missed opportunity to create a well-rounded and enjoyable viewing experience. Save yourself the embarrassment of recommending it to others and opt for a more worthwhile show instead.

They rushed the story

[anamaris-10858 · 4/10 · 11 April 2024]

If you've ever read this book, this series will leave you with a bad taste in your mouth. They rushed too much in telling a story, in developing the characters, they left too much epic dialogue out. David and Margot's relationship develops slowly and with details, that's why at the end the love feels so real, something that didn't happen with this series. In general, they could have done many more chapters with more details. His sisters are also important in the story and go unnoticed.

If you have the chance read the book, it's a story you won't want to put down, I read it in one day because it's very easy to read and entertaining, plus the hot scenes are soooo much better.