As someone who’s spent countless hours binge-watching international content and dabbling in the world of sommeliers, I must say that this list is a true treasure trove for those seeking a global cinematic adventure! From the witty and wild “Kaiju No. 8” to the meta and playful exploration of Franz Kafka’s life in “Kafka”, these shows offer a delightful blend of humor, heart, and unexpected twists that will surely captivate viewers across the globe.
If the prospect of several days alone with your loving family over the holidays fills you with a sense of dread, or if you just need some me time to fill those lazy winter days, The Hollywood Reporter‘s annual pick of the best binge-worthy international TV series has you covered. Take a break with an intoxicating Japanese-French family drama about wine and power, deconstruct the life and work of Franz Kafka with in a new Austrian mini-series or dive deep into the cutthroat world of international fishing with a new Norwegian comedy that’s Succession… with salmon.
All This I Will Give to You
Where to Watch: MHz Choice
Experience an enticing French murder mystery, boasting a refined, more passionate twist reminiscent of a polished British countryside play. Join Manuel, the widower of a clandestinely affluent man, as he navigates a tangled web of family enigma alongside a retired law enforcement officer. Brace yourself for aristocratic aloofness, buried secrets, and a protagonist who exhibits an intriguing blend of prickliness and complexity.
Becoming Karl Lagerfeld
Where to Watch: Hulu
An intriguing documentary series delves into the life story of the renowned fashion designer, centering around his intense rivalry and intricate bond with Yves Saint Laurent. Journey through the realm of elite fashion, witnessing its evolution through the perspective of one of its groundbreaking icons, who refused to accept the title of artist but significantly altered the fashion world. Daniel Brühl delivers a captivating performance as the arrogant, intelligent, and self-critical Lagerfeld.
The Believers
Where to Watch: Netflix
A captivating Thai show revolves around three ambitious businesspeople endeavoring to transform a financially strained Buddhist temple into a profitable venture. With its dark humor and sarcastic undertones, the series offers an entertaining journey into ethical gray areas and business stratagems.
Billionaire Island
Where to Watch: Netflix
A Norwegian dark comedy-drama, brimming with wit, that can be compared to ‘Succession’, if Logan Roy had opted for salmon fishing instead of the media industry. The narrative revolves around two competitive families vying for dominance in a ruthless fish farming sector. It’s filled with intense boardroom conflicts, undercover schemes, and family squabbles, all infused with a uniquely Norwegian humor. Ideal for those who appreciate subtle satire unfolding gradually.
La Cage
Where to Watch: Netflix
A gripping French MMA drama that delivers the classic sports triumph narrative – focusing on Taylor Keita, an aspiring fighter who seizes an unanticipated opportunity to shine in the UFC spotlight following a viral bout against a professional wrestler. However, it adds depth with a genuine emotional arc and numerous authentic fighting scenes featuring actual UFC stars.
Dan Da Dan
Where to Watch: Hulu
An exceptionally zany anime series revolving around two high school students who are obsessed with the supernatural – a psychic girl and an enthusiast of extraterrestrials. Imagine a blend of The X-Files and adolescent oddities, with a fast-paced narrative that joyfully transcends genre limitations. This show is ideal for fans who appreciate animated content that maintains a lighthearted tone while seamlessly blending genres.
Drops of God
Where to Watch: AppleTV+
Experience an engaging fusion of French and Japanese storytelling (recently awarded an International Emmy), blending elements of wine competitions and family mysteries. The narrative, adapted from a popular Japanese manga, revolves around a power struggle over an expansive vineyard inheritance, with a collection of intricate taste-testing contests at its core. Vietnamese-French screenwriter Quoc Dang Tran, known for his work on shows like “Call My Agent!” and “The Bureau”, skillfully infuses the wine tasting scenes with the suspense found in thrillers. Regardless of your knowledge about wine, this series will leave you feeling like a budding sommelier.
Kafka
Where to Watch: Chai Flicks
This German miniseries, with a touch of humor and creative experimentation, reexamines the life of author Franz Kafka. The visual style, reminiscent of Wes Anderson’s work, is used throughout each episode, which centers on a distinct character connected to Kafka. By breaking the fourth wall, it provides a witty, dry look into the writer’s realm. Starring talented European actors, this offbeat biographical series offers an enjoyable and unconventional journey into Franz’s life that highlights the fun side of him.
Kaiju No. 8
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
An entertainingly whimsical anime with an intelligent spin on the monster theme. The character Hibino is a humble maintenance worker tasked with cleaning up after colossal monsters wreck cities. Intriguingly, he acquires the power to metamorphose into a monster himself. This show combines elements of growing-up stories and action-packed adventures, while incorporating humor, emotion, and thrilling monster combat sequences. It’s less serious and more intelligent than typical monster series, providing a humorous perspective on common superhero transformation motifs.
Maxton Hall: The World Between Us
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime
An enchanting, soapy and sensual German teenage romance that flawlessly employs the enemies-to-lovers trope. Ruby, a student on scholarship, and James, an heir to a fortune, navigate school intrigues, family complications, and a love story that, while somewhat foreseeable, adds to the charm of these swoon-worthy romance series. The predictability is part of its allure, and the production quality is exceptional.
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2024-11-27 18:24