Netflix’s latest Spanish thriller, A Widow’s Game (original title: La viuda negra), delivers a chilling true crime story that stays remarkably faithful to the real-life case behind it. Centered around the notorious “Black Widow of Patraix,” this film plunges viewers into a sinister narrative that blurs the line between fact and fiction, offering an intense psychological thriller that grips from start to finish despite a somewhat lengthy runtime.
Set in Valencia, A Widow’s Game follows Maria Jesus, or “Maje” (played by Ivana Baquero), a young nurse whose seemingly ordinary life unravels after the murder of her husband. Stabbed seven times in their parking garage, his death sparks a complex investigation led by a veteran detective (Carmen Machi). As the layers peel back, Maje’s multiple secret relationships emerge, casting suspicion and revealing a darker side to her “widow” persona.
This Netflix movie is more than just a crime story — it is a deep dive into human psychology and the tangled motivations behind deception and betrayal. The portrayal of Maje challenges viewers’ perceptions, making this film a compelling study of character and morality. The strong cast, including familiar faces from the Spanish film industry like Tristán Ulloa and Pedro Casablanc, elevates the movie’s impact, delivering performances that are both realistic and captivating.
Directed by Carlos Sedes, who previously worked on The Asunta Case (another gripping true crime drama for Netflix), A Widow’s Game benefits from a writing team well-versed in adapting real events to screen. The story’s rich complexity almost calls for a miniseries format, yet the film manages to maintain tension throughout its extended length.
A Widow’s Game premieres on Netflix on May 30, 2025, promising a dark, suspenseful journey that reflects the brutal realities of its true crime origins while showcasing standout performances by its stellar cast.
