This week’s selection of new and notable television releases offers a wide range of subjects, from interpersonal dramas to documentaries and historical dramatizations.
On Netflix from 1 May, Tina Fey's comedy "The Four Seasons" explores the complex dynamics of three longstanding couples during their annual holiday. The story centres on Nick, played by Steve Carell, who reveals his boredom and decision to leave his wife Anne, portrayed by Kerri Kenney-Silver. The narrative balances elements of cringe comedy, including a vow renewal party gone awry, with poignant reflections on the challenges of middle age and fading aspirations. The film is an adaptation of a 1981 movie originally starring Alan Alda, who makes a cameo appearance in this version.
Disney+ premieres Jeff Pope’s gripping drama "Suspect: The Shooting of Jean Charles de Menezes" on 30 April. The series revisits the tragic and controversial 2005 shooting of Brazilian electrician Jean Charles de Menezes by the Metropolitan Police in London. The drama unfolds against the tense backdrop of the 7 July bombings and subsequent security operations. Edison Alcaide provides a sensitive portrayal of Menezes, with the production critically examining both the police mishandling and the victim’s story.
Also on Disney+, the intimate documentary "Flintoff," available now, focuses on the life of Andrew Flintoff, a celebrated English cricketer. The film chronicles Flintoff’s career highlights, including his central role in the iconic Ashes series, as well as the personal struggles he faced following a serious car accident. Flintoff speaks candidly about the pressures of public life and the ongoing impact of his injuries.
Netflix marks the tenth anniversary of its acclaimed food series with "Chef’s Table: Legends," released on 28 April. This special edition revisits influential chefs such as Alice Waters, a pioneer of the farm-to-table movement, José Andrés, known for combining fine dining with humanitarian efforts, and Jamie Oliver, recognised for making good cookery accessible on reasonable budgets.
Apple TV+ presents "Carême" from 30 April, a lavish period drama centred on Antonin Carême, a 19th-century French chef credited with shaping French culinary tradition. The series portrays Carême, played by Benjamin Voisin, as a decadent figure intertwining culinary mastery with personal indulgence. Lyna Khoudri co-stars in the production, which offers a melodramatic and risqué take on Carême's life story.
Argentine science fiction fans can look to Netflix’s release of "The Eternaut" on 30 April. Adapted from a graphic novel by Héctor Germán Oesterheld, the show depicts survivors in an underground bunker facing the aftermath of a deadly toxic snowfall and alien invasion in Buenos Aires. While it utilises familiar apocalyptic themes, "The Eternaut" provides engaging entertainment set within a distinctive cultural context.
Finally, Netflix also debuts "Turning Point: The Vietnam War" on 30 April, a documentary series marking 50 years since the conflict's end. This latest work brings forward Vietnamese voices to complement American narratives and examines the war’s lasting influence on US national identity. The timing of the series adds resonance amid current political turbulence.
Together, these offerings provide a diverse mix of drama, history, culinary arts, and documentary storytelling for viewers interested in both contemporary and historical topics.
Source: Noah Wire Services