The new Adult Swim series “Women Wearing Shoulder Pads” stands out as its first Spanish-language offering, delivering substantial content in a brief runtime of approximately 11 minutes per episode. Since its debut on August 17, the show has captivated viewers with its unique blend of storytelling featuring murder, romance, and surprising comedic elements, all encapsulated in a fantastical ’80s Ecuador setting.
In the initial episodes, audiences are treated to an eclectic mix of storylines that includes murder plots, intimate moments, and even whimsical visuals like a child riding a giant guinea pig—a cuy, as referred to in the episode subtitles. This melange of melodrama evokes comparisons to classic American television, drawing inspiration from series like “Melrose Place,” yet it carves its own niche through innovative stop-motion animation.
The Central Narrative
At the heart of “Women Wearing Shoulder Pads” is the character Marioneta Negocios, voiced by Pepa Pallarés. The story revolves around her efforts to rebrand cuys as domestic pets rather than culinary options. This initiative pits her against Doña Quispe, a butcher and celebrity chef voiced by Laura Torres, creating a dramatic and often humorous feud that impacts not only the protagonists but also their acquaintances and lovers.
Creator Gonzalo Cordova envisioned this distinctive show during a challenging time, seeking to infuse his personal experiences and heritage into the narrative. “In the middle of a pandemic, I was looking for work… and it didn’t sit right with me,” he reflected in an interview. “So in a big fit of frustration, I wrote this pitch in a weekend… A few weeks later, I pitched it to Adult Swim, and the whole thing was there.”
Cultural Influences and Aesthetic
Cordova’s artistic vision draws heavily from the vibrant, campy tones of Pedro Almodóvar, whom he credits as a significant influence both in the thematic elements and the visual aesthetic of the show. “I grew up hearing family stories about Ecuador that were all so melodramatic and exaggerated,” Cordova noted, linking these personal narratives to the colorful and dramatic style that defines his work.
To authentically capture the ’80s aesthetic, Cordova meticulously researched the decade, utilizing design books from the period to inform costume choices and visual styles. He sought to create an atmosphere reminiscent of classics such as “Working Girl,” deliberately steering clear of clichéd representations like “movie ’80s.”
Production Challenges
The animation was expertly crafted by the Mexico City-based studio Cinema Fantasma, run by brothers Arturo and Roy Ambriz. The complexity of the production posed challenges, given the requirement for extensive miniature sets and multiple costume changes. Arturo explained, “Every day we were running and trying to figure out where this puppet was required… usually when you see stop-motion productions, there is one set with two characters and the same clothing.” This level of detail enriches the show’s comedic and melodramatic elements simultaneously.
Intertwined Humor and Drama
As the first season unfolds through eight episodes, Cordova and his team blend humor with heightened drama, creating a narrative landscape where absurdity and serious moments coexist. “Some of the stuff that made me laugh the most is going to be the stuff that people think is dramatic,” Cordova shared about the juxtaposition of thematic tones within the show.
Future Directions
While “Women Wearing Shoulder Pads” has not yet secured a second season, Cordova has already conceived plans to explore new genres for potential future episodes. “I think I want to go in that direction” hints at a possible incorporation of film noir elements alongside the established melodrama.
Cordova emphasizes a creative philosophy drawn from his experience working with renowned creators like Lisa Hanawalt. His guiding principle: “It’s okay to throw anything at the wall if you’re bringing your own passions and obsessions to the experience,” reflecting his commitment to authenticity in the storytelling process.
“Women Wearing Shoulder Pads” airs weekly on Sunday nights on Adult Swim, further exploring its outlandish yet sharply poignant narratives in a vibrant animation style.
