Netflix’s ‘Alpha Males’ expands globally: A deep dive into its success and adaptations

A comedy that resonates

Netflix has struck gold with its Spanish comedy series, “Machos Alfa” (translated to “Alpha Males” in English). The show, which delves into the lives of four middle-aged friends grappling with modern masculinity, has not only captivated audiences in Spain but is now set to charm viewers worldwide. With a fourth season confirmed in Spain and international adaptations underway in Germany, France, the Netherlands, and Italy, the series is proving to be a global phenomenon.

The essence of ‘Machos Alfa’

Created by the talented duo Alberto and Laura Caballero, “Machos Alfa” explores the midlife crises of four friends as they navigate the evolving landscape of masculinity. The series, which premiered in December 2022, quickly climbed Netflix’s top 10 in Spain, maintaining its position for 13 weeks. The second season launched in February, and while the third season has wrapped production, its release date remains under wraps.

For those unfamiliar with the series, you can catch a glimpse of its charm by watching the trailer.

Germany’s take on ‘Alpha Males’

Germany’s adaptation of “Machos Alfa” is set to begin production this fall. The cast includes notable names like Tom Beck, Serkan Kaya, Moritz Führmann, and David Rott. This version promises to bring a unique German flavor to the beloved Spanish series.

France’s ‘Super Mále’

In France, the adaptation titled “Super Mále” began production in January. Spearheaded by Noémie Saglia, the creator of “The Hook Up Plan”, this version is set to offer a fresh perspective on the original narrative. Saglia, along with Estelle Koenig and Julien Teisseire, has crafted the script, while Olivier Rosemberg directs episodes 4-6. The show is produced by Grand Amour and Petite Panthère.

For a sneak peek, check out the trailer.

Dutch adaptation: ‘Haantjes’

The Netherlands’ version, “Haantjes”, started production in May. Directed by Anna van der Heide and Anna van Keimpema, and written by Luuk van Bemmelen and Richard Kemper, this adaptation is set to bring the Dutch sensibility to the story of modern masculinity.

Italy’s ‘Maschi Veri’

Italy’s adaptation, “Maschi Veri”, also began production in May. Produced by Groenlandia, the eight-episode series is penned by Furio Andreotti, Giulia Calenda, and Ugo Ripamonti. This version promises to infuse the Italian cultural context into the narrative of “Machos Alfa”.

The strategy behind the adaptations

The decision to adapt “Machos Alfa” for various international markets wasn’t initially planned. However, the show’s universal themes of toxic masculinity and male fragility resonated with Netflix executives across different territories. This led to a swift greenlighting of multiple adaptations even before the first season aired in Spain.

Larry Tanz, Netflix VP and Head of Content for EMEA, highlighted the collaborative nature of the decision-making process. Executives from various countries often share ideas and content that excites them. When the Spanish team showcased early footage of “Machos Alfa”, it quickly garnered interest from other territories, leading to the rapid development of localized versions.

Comedy’s universal appeal

While comedy can be challenging to export due to cultural differences, “Machos Alfa” has managed to break this barrier. The show’s contemporary themes and relatable characters have made it an exciting proposition for various markets. Unlike traditional reboots, each adaptation of “Machos Alfa” is treated as a unique original, inspired by the Spanish version but tailored to resonate with local audiences.

Measuring success

Each adaptation of “Machos Alfa” will be evaluated on its own merits. Netflix plans to measure the success of each version based on audience size, completion rates, and engagement, comparing them to other local originals rather than to each other. This approach ensures that each adaptation is judged fairly and on its own terms.

A reflection on global storytelling

The success of “Machos Alfa” and its international adaptations underscores the power of storytelling that transcends cultural boundaries. As viewers, we are reminded of the universal themes that connect us, regardless of where we come from. The journey of “Machos Alfa” from a Spanish hit to a global phenomenon is a testament to the evolving landscape of entertainment and the shared human experiences that bind us.

For more insights and to watch the trailers of the various adaptations, visit the following links:

As we look forward to these adaptations, one can’t help but wonder how each version will bring its unique flavor to the universal themes of “Machos Alfa”. The anticipation is palpable, and the excitement is real.