Netflix’s new Spanish series Salvador is an eight-part thriller that plunges into the violent world of neo-Nazi soccer hooligans in Madrid. The story follows a troubled ambulance driver whose life unravels when he discovers his estranged daughter is part of a dangerous far-right group. Released globally on February 6, 2026, the show mixes intense action with heavy social themes. This guide breaks down the plot, characters, and viewer reactions to help you decide whether to add it to your watchlist.
What Is the Netflix Series Salvador About?
Salvador centers on Salvador Aguirre, a man haunted by his past mistakes. Once a doctor, he lost his career and family due to struggles with alcohol and gambling. He now works as an ambulance technician in Madrid, trying to rebuild a quiet life.
His fragile peace shatters on a chaotic night surrounding a high-stakes soccer match. Violent clashes erupt between a local neo-Nazi group of fanatics called the White Souls and rival supporters. While responding to emergency calls stemming from the riots, Salvador makes a devastating discovery: his estranged adult daughter, Milena, is not only present but is an active member of the violent White Souls. Their brief, heated confrontation confirms the deep rift between them, with Milena making it clear he was never a real father to her.
The situation spirals when Milena is brutally attacked and left hospitalized. Consumed by guilt and a desperate need for redemption, Salvador vows to find out who hurt his daughter and why she was drawn into this world of hate. He begins his own investigation, plunging himself into the dark underbelly of the city’s extremist circles. His personal mission for answers unfolds alongside a formal police investigation into the night’s violence, revealing a complex web of corruption and conflicting interests.
Who Are the Key Cast and Creators?
The series features a standout performance from Luis Tosar, a highly respected actor in Spanish cinema and television. He portrays the title character, carrying the show’s emotional weight as a man fractured by regret and driven by a need to make things right. Critics note his ability to convey deep turmoil with remarkable subtlety.
The supporting cast includes:
- Candela Arestegui as Milena, Salvador’s daughter.
- Claudia Salas as Julia, a complex member of the White Souls who has her own secret motives.
- Leonor Watling as Carla, the leader of the White Souls.
- Patricia Vico as Detective Sonia Martín, who is investigating the riots.
- Fariba Sheikhan as Marjane, Salvador’s partner on the ambulance crew.
Salvador is created by Aitor Gabilondo, known for the series Patria and Muted, and is directed entirely by Daniel Calparsoro, a filmmaker recognized for his kinetic, high-adrenaline style. This combination brings together political storytelling with visceral, action-oriented filmmaking.
What Are Critics and Viewers Saying About Salvador?
Reactions to the series highlight its strengths and potential drawbacks, making it a divisive watch.
Praise often focuses on the show’s relentless pace and central performance. Many call it a perfect weekend binge, with all eight episodes designed to keep you hooked. Luis Tosar’s performance is widely praised as powerful and compelling, grounding the story. The direction by Daniel Calparsoro is described as intense and adrenaline-fueled, creating a gritty, realistic atmosphere of chaos.
However, criticisms frequently point to the main character and the show’s tone. Some reviewers find Salvador Aguirre extremely difficult to like or root for, describing him as an irritating “deadbeat dad” whose redemption arc feels forced. The series has also been criticized for its overwhelming intensity. One review notes it relies on “an accumulation of visual and sonic stimuli—everyone seems to be shouting all the time,” which can leave little room for reflection. The extreme, graphic violence depicted is a consistent point mentioned, making it a tough watch for some.
The plot’s clarity, especially for an international audience unfamiliar with the world of European soccer ultras, has been questioned. One critic stated, “Some of the first episode… might have needed a bit more explanation,” particularly regarding the rivalries between the fan groups.
A Look at the Show’s Themes and Content
Salvador is more than a simple action thriller; it attempts to dissect serious social issues. The series serves as an exploration of the ecosystem that allows extremist groups like the White Souls to form, operate, and recruit members. It looks at the emotional and ideological mechanisms that draw in young people, exploring themes of radicalization, failed parenthood, and the search for belonging.
The show does not present a black-and-white world. It portrays a grim reality where police, business figures, and political authorities may have intersecting interests, and even opposing groups are shown with moral complexities. This attempt to portray “uncomfortable grey areas” is a significant part of its narrative ambition.
Potential viewers should be prepared for strong content. The series is rated R21 or TV-MA for a reason. It contains frequent, brutal violence, including beatings, riots, and the aftermath of Molotov cocktail attacks. The themes are heavy, dealing directly with racism, neo-Nazi ideology, and familial breakdown. The language is strong, and there is medical nudity in the first episode.
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So, Should You Watch or Skip Salvador on Netflix?
Deciding whether to watch Salvador depends entirely on what you seek in a series.
You should consider watching Salvador if:
- You enjoy fast-paced, gritty thrillers that you can binge in a weekend.
- You appreciate complex, morally flawed protagonists portrayed by exceptional actors.
- You don’t mind graphic violence and are interested in crime dramas that tackle contemporary social issues like extremism.
- You are a fan of Spanish television and cinema.
You might want to skip Salvador if:
- You prefer to like or sympathize with the main character of a story.
- You are sensitive to graphic, realistic violence and intense, shouting-heavy scenes.
- You prefer straightforward, escapist entertainment over dramas with heavy political and social commentary.
- You find stories about neo-Nazis and racial violence too distressing.
Ultimately, Salvador is a well-made, aggressive series that makes no apologies for its harsh tone and challenging subject matter. It features a standout performance from Luis Tosar and relentless direction from Daniel Calparsoro. For viewers seeking a visceral, thought-provoking, and emotionally charged thriller, it offers a compelling, if difficult, journey. For those looking for lighter entertainment or a traditional hero’s story, it may prove to be an exhausting experience.
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