[BluBonnet]

Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal Electrify in Hulu’s Thrilling Boxing Drama ‘La Máquina’

Two decades after their debut together in “Y Tu Mamá También” and more than a decade since “Casa de Mi Padre,” lifelong friends Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal (who both serve as executive producers) have reunited on screen again for Hulu’s first Spanish-language series, “La Máquina.” A stirring and engaging drama, despite its manic, campy scenes, the limited series follows acclaimed boxer Esteban “La Máquina” Osuna (Bernal), desperately trying to define his legacy. When Esteban hits a major stumble in the boxing ring, his best friend and manager, the bewildering and Botox-loving Andy (an unrecognizable Luna), decides to take matters into his own hands. However, his solution to extending the boxer’s career unearths long-held secrets between the friends.

“La Máquina” opens in Las Vegas. Just minutes before Esteban’s fight against a younger boxer, Protasio (Mercito Gesta), the audience finds Andy preoccupied with the glitz, glamour and women of Vegas. Meanwhile, Andy’s brother-in-law and assistant, Saúl (Andrés Delgado), desperately searches the casino’s kitchen for Esteban’s lucky drink, a Fresquita-brand tamarind juice. Saúl’s search proves futile. Thankfully, Esteban’s ex-wife and co-parent, Irasema (a brilliant Eiza González), saves the day. With his lucky drink in hand, Esteban seems prepared to face his adversary. However, almost as quickly as the match begins, the 38-year-old awakens in the back of an ambulance, a neck brace cradling his head.