Sky High

Behind the Scenes of Sky High (2020): Netflix’s Spanish Thriller That Soared with Miguel Herrán

Sky High (Hasta el cielo), the 2020 Spanish action-thriller directed by Daniel Calparsoro, became a breakout hit for Netflix, blending high-stakes heists with raw emotional drama. Starring Miguel Herrán (Money Heist) and Carolina Yuste, the film follows a young car thief drawn into Madrid’s criminal underworld after a fateful encounter with a gang leader. While the movie’s adrenaline-fueled plot captivated audiences, its production and cast dynamics added layers to its success—though some details remain shrouded in typical industry secrecy.

The Making of a Netflix Blockbuster

Sky High was one of Netflix’s early forays into Spanish-language original films, and its production leaned into the platform’s global reach. Behind-the-scenes footage highlights the film’s gritty, on-location shoots in Madrid, where director Daniel Calparsoro (The Warning) aimed for authenticity. The movie’s 121-minute runtime suggests a deliberate pace, balancing action with character-driven tension—a hallmark of Calparsoro’s style.

Miguel Herrán, already a rising star from Money Heist, took center stage as Ángel, the film’s conflicted protagonist. His chemistry with co-star Carolina Yuste (Estrella) was a focal point, with Netflix’s marketing emphasizing their dynamic as the heart of the story . The cast also included heavyweights like Luis Tosar (Cell 211), whose presence added gravitas to the criminal underworld depicted on screen.

While the film’s budget and on-set challenges aren’t detailed in the available evidence, the production’s scale is evident in its high-octane set pieces, including a standout heist sequence that became a trailer highlight . Rumors of reshoots or script changes remain unconfirmed, but the final product’s polish suggests a tightly controlled shoot.

**Cast Dynamics and Post-Sky High Trajectories**

The ensemble cast brought depth to Sky High, but their careers took divergent paths after the film’s release. Miguel Herrán’s star power continued to rise, with roles in The Cook of Castamar and Modelo 77, solidifying his status as a Spanish leading man. Carolina Yuste, meanwhile, earned critical acclaim for her performance, though her post-Sky High projects leaned toward smaller, character-driven roles .

Asia Ortega, who played Sole, and Fernando Cayo (Rogue) maintained steady careers in Spanish cinema, though neither reached Herrán’s level of international recognition. Luis Tosar, a veteran of the industry, returned to his roots in crime dramas, while Dollar Selmouni’s role as a supporting antagonist marked one of his more visible film appearances .

A notable absence in post-release buzz is Richard Holmes, whose character’s fate in the film left fans curious. However, no evidence confirms whether he pursued further acting work after Sky High .

Reception and Legacy: Mixed Reviews, Strong Fanbase

Sky High premiered to a divided critical response. While some praised its energy and Herrán’s performance, others criticized its pacing and derivative plot. SensCritique users rated it a modest 5/10 based on 85 votes , and Rotten Tomatoes’ audience score (though not explicitly listed in the evidence) likely reflected a similar split.

Despite the lukewarm reviews, the film found a loyal audience on Netflix, where its blend of crime drama and romance resonated with viewers. The official trailer and behind-the-scenes featurettes played a key role in its marketing, emphasizing the film’s high-stakes action and emotional core.

One lingering question is whether Sky High will get a sequel. The film’s open-ended finale left room for continuation, but as of now, no official announcements have been made. Rumors of a spin-off or follow-up remain just that—rumors .

The Verdict: A Solid, If Not Groundbreaking, Thriller

Sky High may not have reinvented the crime genre, but it delivered exactly what it promised: a gripping, visually dynamic ride with a charismatic lead. Its production was a testament to Netflix’s growing investment in international content, and its cast’s post-release trajectories highlight the film’s role in shaping their careers.

For fans of Spanish-language thrillers, Sky High remains a must-watch—flaws and all. And with Herrán’s star still on the rise, the door is open for more stories from this criminal underworld.