Common Sense Media Review
Buddy-cop show set in Mallorca is a positive comfort watch
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Mallorca Files
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
THE MALLORCA FILES follows British detective Miranda (Elen Rhys) , a disciplined and by-the-book investigator, who is sent to Mallorca on a case but ends up staying to work with Max (Julian Looman), a laid-back and instinctive German detective. Despite their clashing personalities, the two form an effective partnership as they solve a variety of crimes across the island, from murders and kidnappings to smuggling and corruption. Beneath the sun-drenched Mediterranean sea, danger is always just around the corner.
Is It Any Good?
This lighthearted detective dramedy knows exactly what it wants to be – entertaining, breezy, depending on a likeable dynamic duo. Each episode of The Mallorca Files follows a case-of-the-week format, striking a balance between suspense and soapy-ness while keeping the audience's attention with fun police gadgets. Looman effortlessly plays a sunshine-filled detective who has more depth than he initially lets on. And Rhys delivers a stern and focused performance of his partner who occasionally lets loose in just the right moments. Their chemistry is convincing and their individual backstories add nice personal touches.
Stunning location shootings and sweeping aerial shots show high production value, and smooth cinematography captures the beauty of Mallorca's cathedrals, caves, and emerald waters. That said, while the show is charming, it lacks a distinct wow factor compared to more iconic entries in the buddy cop genre. It immediately recalls its predecessors like Brooklyn 99 but without the same level of sharp wit or magnetic star power to elevate it beyond familiar tropes. Even if it doesn't leave a lasting impact, the show is an easygoing procedural that offers comfort.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about The Mallorca File's depiction of police and detective work. Do you think it meaningfully and authentically depicts this profession? Do you wanna pursue a career in this field? If you do, how can you prepare yourself to succeed?
How does the show's setup in Mallorca contribute to its storytelling? What's uniquely local about it?
How do the characters demonstrate teamwork and integrity? Why are these important character strengths?
TV Details
- Premiere date : August 1, 2024
- Cast : Elen Rhys , Julian Looman
- Network : Prime Video
- Genre : Drama
- Character Strengths : Integrity , Teamwork
- TV rating :
- Last updated : March 20, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate
