Imagine Orange Is the New Black but with more lip gloss, sharper nails, and drama levels turned up to telenovela 100 – that’s Fugitivas, en busca de la libertad (2024). Daniela Álvarez steps into her breakout lead era in this Mexican reboot of the 2016 Chilean hit Preciosas, packed with rebellion, redemption, and ride-or-die sisterhood.
Four fierce mujeres just broke out of prison, and crash-land into a sketchy bar and flip it into their HQ for redemption, revenge, and a lil’ bit of reggaetón. They’re done doing time for crimes that they may (or may not) have committed, and now they’re mixing cocktails and chaos while dodging cops, ex-lovers, and their scandalous pasts.
Each woman’s got a secret, a score to settle, and killer style to match. From forging new identities to finessing friendships thicker than their rap sheets, this wild quartet is rewriting their story one drink (and drama) at a time. Think Orange Is the New Black meets Desperate Housewives, but way more chaotic and 100% telenovela-certified.
A hidden gem with just enough grit, heart, and chaos to keep ya hooked.
Based on: Preciosas (2016, Chile)
Ok, this one surprised us. Every year, networks roll out a few lower-budget novelas with lighter star power and dry-toast energy. Most are forgettable, but Fugitivas said, “not on my watch, babe.”
Where it took off running:
The plot is juicy, the murder mystery actually keeps you guessing, and for once, it doesn’t feel like a greatest-hits album of recycled tropes (okay, a few sneak in, but we’ll allow it). But the best surprise here were all the fresh faces! Instead of the usual TelevisaUnivision glam squad, we actually got new blood, and it worked. Daniela Álvarez Reyes breaks out and slays in her first lead role. Who knew that lead actress material was just sitting there in the wings this whole time? Trust, she’s one breakout away from becoming the next big thing.
Where it tripped:
This isn’t a PBS masterpiece theater mystery, it’s a telenovela. That means every character is contractually obligated to make at least one terrible life choice that defies logic, just to keep the drama alive. It’s tradition… but sometimes you’ll be rolling your eyes at the screen like, be serious. Also, the first few episodes were absolute fire, but then it starts dragging its heels – as novelas love to do. They hook you completely, then suddenly take a scenic detour. Tradition.
Worth watching?
Yes, despite all the cracks we just took at it. If you can roll with a few rough edges, the energy of this novela is what sells it.
Telebesitos Tip 💋
Keep an eye on Daniela Álvarez Reyes this girl’s gonna be that girl very soon.
