A Second Chance: the global success of "If I Had Known" on Netflix

In the vast catalog of Netflix, there is a miniseries that has captured the attention of viewers around the world: "If I Had Known". This eight-episode series has become an unexpected success on the streaming platform. Starring Megan Montaner, this Spanish production tells the story of Emma, a woman trapped in a marriage with no way out who receives an unexpected opportunity to relive the last ten years of her life. The story takes a fascinating turn during a lunar eclipse, when Emma is magically transported back ten years, just before her husband proposed to her. This second chance allows her to reconsider her decisions and rethink her life with knowledge of the future, a plot that echoes other Netflix titles like "Perfect Strangers". The key to success lies in the fact that it is a story that resonates with the real lives of many people who would like to have a second chance because they recognize the possibility of correcting past mistakes and changing the course of their lives. This aspiration is based on the hope of achieving a more fulfilling and satisfying version of themselves and their relationships. A second chance allows for reflection on past decisions, learning from previous experiences, and applying that knowledge to improve. It also provides the opportunity to heal wounds, redeem actions, and pursue dreams that were left unfinished. In essence, seeking a second chance is an act of faith in the capacity to grow and transform. The creation of "If I Had Known" was not without its challenges. Originally, this miniseries was going to be filmed in Turkey under the title "If Only", but issues with Turkish authorities due to the inclusion of a homosexual character led to the project's cancellation. Netflix decided to move the production to Spain, keeping creator Ece Yörenç and adapting the story for a Spanish audience. This adaptation was handled by Irma Correa, known for her work on "Alba". The same production where Miguel Fernández worked, but he is not the only name that resonates alongside Megan Montaner, as Michel Noher, known for his role in Dani de la Torre's "The Unit", will be in charge of making Emma reconsider her entire life. Also participating are Eduardo Lloveras ("Intimacy") and Amber Williams ("The Chosen"). The chemistry between the actors and their convincing performances have been crucial to the series' success. But returning to its protagonist, the year 2023 was particularly notable for Megan Montaner, who starred in three series on different platforms: "La caza: Guadiana" for RTVE, "30 Coins" for HBO Max, and "Entre tierras" for Antena 3. This last series also made its way to Netflix, quickly becoming the most-watched series in Spain, surpassing even "The Three-Body Problem". Montaner has proven to be a versatile and charismatic actress, capable of bringing success to any project she participates in. The direction of "If I Had Known" was entrusted to Liliana Bocanegra ("The Queen of Flow") and Alejandro Bazzano ("Money Heist"), who made the most of the natural locations in Seville, Madrid, and Paris to bring the story to life. The series was produced by Boomerang TV, ensuring high production quality and an engaging narrative. Since its premiere, "If I Had Known" has received praise from both the audience and critics. Its blend of drama, romance, and science fiction has captured the imagination of viewers, making it one of the most popular series on Netflix in several countries. The series stands out not only for its thrilling plot but also for its exploration of universal themes such as second chances and the pursuit of happiness. It is Emma's journey to herself, a series that speaks of dreams, hopes, the meaning of our lives, family, friends, love, and inevitable destiny. "If I Had Known" offers a light and addictive narrative, perfect for binge-watching over a weekend. The series has been particularly popular among those who enjoy love stories and has been compared to other successful Netflix productions like "Coffee with the Scent of a Woman". Its short format and captivating plot make it a perfect choice for those looking to disconnect from their daily routine. "If I Had Known" is further proof of the talent and creativity in the Spanish television landscape. With a stellar cast, an engaging plot, and high-quality production, this miniseries has managed to capture hearts around the world. Available on Netflix, there is no doubt that it will continue to be a success for a long time. If you haven't seen it yet, this is your chance to discover why everyone is talking about it.