Telemundo’s "Guerra de Idolos" is a Mix of “Empire,” “Narcos” and “Glee”

The entertainment industry is seen as one of the most competitive career arenas in the world.  Thousands of people want to be famous, yet if they don’t have the right connections, it’s hard to get started.  U.S. shows like Empire, Smash and Glee have explored the lengths talented people are willing to go to in order to stand out and get ahead.  Now Telemundo is venturing into the same territory with Guerra de Idolos (U.S. title Price of Fame).  Its the network’s first scripted drama series with music, and although it is categorized as a telenovela it is produced very differently from most of the soap operas that populate Spanish-language television.

In general telenovelas are filmed on massive sound stages with build sets and multiple camera set ups and have an overall melodramatic tone. Guerra de Idolos, however, follows the production pattern of most American dramas:  It is shot on location with single camera set ups and has more of a reality-based feel, while still drawing in the audience with its mix of secrets and scandals.  It isn't as melodramatic as other stage-y telenovelas, but it has just as much sex appeal and as many twists and turns as some of the U.S.'s hottest dramas.

Guerra de Idolos follows Texas brothers Julio and Mateo Solar, played by Daniel Elbittar (pictured at top) and Alberto Guerra, respectively.  Mateo is one of the biggest music producers of his time, with successful artists of all genres in New York and Los Angeles.  He is also his brother’s producer and songwriter, Julio being one of the most popular Mexican singers and musicians.

 

Juan Ayala

Juan Ayala is a Brooklyn-based writer, podcaster and columnist at MediaVillage. He covers programming aimed toward diverse, multicultural and LGBTQ+ audiences under his  Multicultural TV column. His love for TV and film ranges from workplace comedi… read more