The Mexican psychological thriller Desire (original title Deseo) is scheduled for a global release on Netflix on 17 July 2026. Directed by Teresa Simone in her feature film debut, the story centers on the unraveling life of Lucero, a successful attorney whose professional stability is challenged by a complex and dangerous personal obsession. The film explores themes of emotional instability, the consequences of illicit attraction, and the fragility of long-term domestic life.
According to production details, the film examines the psychological toll of a character who, despite having a seemingly perfect life, risks everything due to an internal void. The plot follows Lucero as she becomes fixated on Matías, a swimming coach who instructs her daughter. The narrative tension escalates when the daughter also develops feelings for the same man, creating a volatile domestic environment characterized by jealousy and betrayal.
The cast is headlined by Ludwika Paleta, known for her work in Daughter from Another Mother and La Querida del Centauro, who portrays the lead character, Lucero. The supporting cast includes José María Yazpik as her husband, Fernando, and Óscar Casas as the swimming coach, Matías. The ensemble also features Leonardo Ortizgris, Matías Coronado, Pilar Pascual, and Ivana Salomón, among others.
Production and Release Timeline
While the film is set for a worldwide premiere on Netflix on 17 July 2026, it has already seen a theatrical run in select markets. The movie debuted in Mexican theaters on 7 May 2026 and in Spanish cinemas on 8 May 2026.
The project was produced by El Estudio, a production company founded in 2020 by Diego Suárez, Pablo Cruz, and Enrique López Lavigne. The script was co-written by Giulia Cardamone and Vanessa Miklos. The film marks a departure from traditional action-heavy thriller tropes, with director Teresa Simone emphasizing emotional realism and character-driven stakes over fast-paced cinematic sequences.
Official Synopsis and Plot Dynamics
The official synopsis describes the central conflict as a manifestation of Lucero’s hidden dissatisfaction. Despite a successful career and a stable 20-year marriage, a “void” drives her to pursue a risky connection with Matías. The situation is further complicated by the involvement of her daughter, which serves as a catalyst for the collapse of Lucero’s reputation and home life. The film functions as an exploration of how a single decision can lead to the systematic destruction of a long-established, comfortable lifestyle.
Trailer Reception
The official trailer for Desire is currently available on the Netflix Latinoamérica YouTube channel. The 1 minute and 42 second teaser highlights the shift from a seemingly perfect, high-status life to one defined by obsession.
Cast and Crew Information
The production features a wide array of Mexican talent, both established and emerging. The following list identifies the primary roles as reported in the film’s production notes:
- Ludwika Paleta as Lucero
- José María Yazpik as Fernando
- Óscar Casas as Matías
- Leonardo Ortizgris as Miguel
- Matías Coronado as Julián
- Pilar Pascual as Viviana
- Ivana Salomón as Lucía
- Gabi Zamora as Malena
- Jaydy Michel as Sandra
- Giovani Florido as Licenciado Ávila
- Cedma Morales as Renata
The film remains one of the notable additions to Netflix’s 2026 international content strategy, which focuses on localized stories with universal emotional themes.
Viewers outside of Mexico and Spain who wish to view Desire will require a standard Netflix subscription.
Worth a look