The Barrier (2020)
A gripping Spanish dystopian drama about one family's fight for survival in a divided future Madrid.
The Barrier - Series Information
- Original Title: La valla
- First Air Year: 2020
- Last Air Year: 2020
- Created by: Daniel Écija
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi, Fantasy, War, Politics, Mystery
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (64 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 13
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Spanish
- Spoken Languages: Spanish
- First Air Date: January 19, 2020 (Germany - 16), January 19, 2020 (Brazil - 16), January 19, 2020 (Spain - 16)
- Networks: Atresplayer
- Alternative Titles: Ο Φράχτης (GR), ザ・ウォール －分かたれた世界－ (JP)
- Production Companies: Good Mood
- Production Countries: Spain
The Barrier - Plot
One family's fight for survival in a future dystopian Madrid illustrates the disparity between two worlds separated by a fence — and so much more.
The Barrier - Trailer
See the divided world of future Madrid come to life in the official trailer:
One family. Two worlds.
Where to Watch The Barrier
Looking for where to watch The Barrier?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
The Barrier - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Daniel Écija
Main Cast
- Unax Ugalde
- Olivia Molina
- Eleonora Wexler
- Ángela Molina
- Abel Folk
- Daniel Ibáñez
- Laura Quirós
- Belén Écija
- Manu Fullola
- Iván Chavero
Writers
- Inés París
- Roberto Martín Maiztegui
- Daniel Écija
- Clara Botas
- Jorge Valdano
Executive Producers
- Sonia Martínez
- Daniel Écija
The Barrier - FAQs
What dystopian world does The Barrier depict?
The Barrier imagines a near-future Madrid split into two starkly unequal zones by a physical fence. The privileged live in comfort on one side while the poor struggle under authoritarian rule on the other. The story follows one family caught between both worlds, fighting to stay together and survive.
Is The Barrier based on a true story?
The Barrier is not based on a specific true story, but it draws heavily from real-world anxieties — political authoritarianism, social inequality, and territorial division. Creator Daniel Écija crafted a fictional dystopia that feels grounded in recognizable tensions, making its speculative premise resonate as a cautionary tale rather than pure fantasy.
Where can you stream The Barrier?
The Barrier is available to stream on Netflix and Netflix Standard with Ads. Both options give you access to all 13 episodes of the single season. Availability may vary slightly by region, so check your local Netflix library for the most up-to-date information.
Who are the lead actors in The Barrier?
The series stars Unax Ugalde as Hugo and Olivia Molina as Julia, a couple at the heart of the story. They are joined by Eleonora Wexler, veteran actress Ángela Molina, and Abel Folk, among others. The ensemble cast brings emotional depth to the show's high-stakes family drama.
Is The Barrier worth watching for sci-fi fans?
Fans of dystopian fiction will find plenty to enjoy here. The Barrier blends political intrigue, family drama, and speculative world-building into a tense, binge-worthy package. If you appreciated series like Colony or Snowpiercer, this Spanish production offers a similarly charged atmosphere with a distinctly European sensibility.
Who created The Barrier and who wrote it?
The Barrier was created by Daniel Écija, one of Spain's most prolific television producers. The writing team was notably large and diverse, including Inés París, Roberto Martín Maiztegui, Clara Botas, Jorge Valdano, and several others — a collaborative effort that shaped the series' layered political and personal storylines.
What are some shows similar to The Barrier?
If The Barrier hooked you, try Years and Years, Colony, Silo, or Snowpiercer for more dystopian drama with political bite. For something closer in tone and pacing, Fallout and The Man in the High Castle are strong picks. Each explores divided societies and survival under oppressive systems.
How many episodes does The Barrier have?
The Barrier ran for a single season comprising 13 episodes, each averaging around 64 minutes in length. The series concluded in 2020 and was not renewed for a second season, making it a self-contained story — though its ending leaves room for interpretation about the characters' futures.
More About The Barrier
Explore further details about The Barrier on these authoritative resources: