Oriol Paulo's 'En nombre de otro': The future of Spanish thrillers is already here

Is Netflix simply playing it safe by backing a director with a proven track record, or are we witnessing a calculated move to solidify Spanish thrillers as a global genre powerhouse? The upcoming release of Oriol Paulo's 'En nombre de otro' on December 11, 2026, seems to suggest the latter, signaling a deliberate strategy by the streaming giant to invest in established talent and a winning formula.

Netflix recently unveiled the release date and teaser poster for 'En nombre de otro' (known as 'Proxies' in some markets), a film directed and co-written by Oriol Paulo alongside Guillem Clua. This new thriller will premiere globally, featuring a stellar cast including Eduard Fernández, Mario Casas, Blanca Suárez, Nicolás Francella, and Alexandra Jiménez. The premise immediately hooks: on Christmas Eve morning, a man walks into a police station confessing to multiple murders, but the real mystery lies in his timing and motives, linking his confession to a seemingly closed case that defies all logic. Filmed across various locations in Catalonia and produced by Paulo's new company, Juanita Films, it promises the intricate, twist-laden narrative that has become his signature.

Oriol Paulo: The Architect of Spanish Suspense

Oriol Paulo has, in our view, become synonymous with the modern Spanish thriller, earning a reputation as one of the filmmakers who has redefined the genre over the last decade. His previous works, such as 'Contratiempo' (The Invisible Guest), 'Los renglones torcidos de Dios' (God's Crooked Lines), and the Netflix series 'El inocente' (The Innocent), showcase a remarkable ability to craft intricate plots where nothing is quite as it seems. These are stories built on a foundation of misdirection and psychological depth, often culminating in a signature final twist that leaves audiences reeling. Netflix has clearly recognized this consistent quality; both 'God's Crooked Lines' and 'The Innocent' are already available on the platform, allowing new viewers to explore his distinctive style.

This isn't merely about creating suspense; it’s about crafting a narrative puzzle that viewers are compelled to solve alongside the characters. Paulo's films are not passive viewing experiences; they demand engagement, challenging the audience to piece together fragmented clues and question every assumption. It is this intellectual engagement, combined with sharp pacing and strong performances, that makes his work so potent and, crucially, so rewatchable. When Netflix throws its considerable weight behind a new project from Paulo, it’s not just endorsing a director; it's endorsing a particular brand of high-octane, cerebral entertainment that resonates widely.

Netflix's Strategic Investment in a Proven Formula

The commissioning of 'En nombre de otro' is a clear indicator of Netflix's continued, and wise, investment in established Spanish directorial talent. Far from being a gamble, this is a calculated strategic move. By supporting filmmakers like Oriol Paulo, who have a proven track record of creating compelling content and attracting a dedicated audience, Netflix ensures a consistent flow of high-quality productions. The platform is not just acquiring content; it's cultivating relationships with creators whose work aligns with its global ambitions.

Furthermore, the production of 'En nombre de otro' by Juanita Films—Paulo's own Barcelona-based company—underscores a deeper commitment. Juanita Films was founded to champion original stories with a distinct narrative identity and clear international appeal, making this partnership a synergistic alignment of goals.