This week, streaming platforms are offering a diverse array of content, from a Japanese action-packed series reminiscent of Squid Game to a heartfelt documentary featuring Chris Hemsworth. Here’s a look at what’s worth watching.
Last Samurai Standing: A Japanese Action Spectacle
Last Samurai Standing, now streaming on Netflix, is a thrilling Japanese series that combines historical drama with intense action. The show opens with a gripping battle scene set in 1869, marking the end of the samurai era in Japan. Fast forward a decade, and the series follows Shujiro Saga, a once-renowned samurai, now struggling to survive amidst poverty and disease.
With the enactment of the “Sword Abolishment Edict,” former warriors, including Shujiro, are lured into a deadly competition promising a lucrative cash prize. The series draws clear parallels to Squid Game, with its life-or-death contests and shadowy organizers, yet it stands out with its unique setting and cultural nuances.
Adapted from Shogo Imamura’s novel Ikusagami, Last Samurai Standing is not just about its action sequences, though they are a highlight. The series delves into the motivations of its characters, offering flashbacks that reveal their pasts and the circumstances that led them to the competition. The choreography, led by Junichi Okada, is a testament to the dedication to martial arts authenticity, with each episode presenting a new, thrilling combat scenario.
“Action heads should delight in a series where the fighting is so intense, sweat literally sizzles on a hot sword.”
Chris Hemsworth: A Road Trip to Remember
On Disney+, Chris Hemsworth: A Road Trip to Remember offers a poignant look at the actor’s journey with his father, Craig, following a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. The documentary blends scientific insight with personal reflection, as Chris and Craig embark on a journey that revisits the past to spark memories.
Dr. Suraj Samtani from the University of NSW Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing provides expertise on Reminiscence Therapy, a method used to enhance cognitive health. The film captures the emotional spectrum of their journey, from revisiting their Melbourne home to exploring the Northern Territory on motorcycles.
“The dad’s looking at his son with a lot of love,” Hemsworth notes, encapsulating the film’s core sentiment.
While the documentary attempts to cover a lot within its 50-minute runtime, it succeeds in highlighting the importance of emotional expression, particularly among men, in dealing with difficult situations.
Other Streaming Highlights
Bump: A Christmas Film
On Stan, Bump: A Christmas Film serves as a delightful addition to the beloved series. Set between the final episodes, the film offers fans one more chance to engage with the characters, particularly Angie, played by Claudia Karvan. The movie maintains the series’ balance of chaos and comfort, providing a fitting postscript to the show’s emotional journey.
NFL RedZone
For sports enthusiasts, Disney+ offers NFL RedZone, a dynamic way to keep up with America’s National Football League. Hosted by Scott Hanson, the show provides a comprehensive look at Sunday games, switching between highlights and live updates to ensure fans don’t miss a moment.
Good Boy
AMC+ presents Good Boy, a supernatural thriller where a dog, played by director Ben Leonberg’s own pet, becomes the unlikely hero. The film uses low-budget effects and unique perspectives to create a chilling atmosphere as the dog attempts to protect its owner from unseen threats.
Spaced
Finally, Spaced on Binge remains a classic for fans of British comedy. Created by Simon Pegg and Jessica Hynes, and directed by Edgar Wright, the series is a nostalgic trip back to the late ’90s, filled with pop culture references and absurd humor that laid the groundwork for the creators’ future successes.
Whether you’re in the mood for action, heartfelt stories, or nostalgic comedy, this week’s streaming picks offer something for everyone. As platforms continue to expand their offerings, viewers can look forward to even more diverse and engaging content in the weeks to come.
