Get ready for a thrilling January filled with must-watch TV shows! As a TV critic, I'm here to guide you through the streaming maze and help you navigate the endless choices. Decision fatigue, be gone! We've got an exciting lineup ahead, so let's dive right in.
Netflix: Unveiling the Best of January
My top pick on Netflix is the captivating mystery series, "His & Hers" (January 8). Get ready for some intense exchanges as this show explores the depths of our closest relationships. With stars Jon Bernthal and Tessa Thompson, it's a must-watch for fans of contemporary drama. But here's where it gets controversial: can a British filmmaker bring a unique twist to an American series? We'll find out!
Also on Netflix, Matt Damon and Ben Affleck reunite in "The Rip" (January 16), an action-packed thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With a talented supporting cast, including Steven Yeun and Teyana Taylor, this one's a real treat for fans of compromised cops and unexpected twists.
Agatha Christie's Legacy: A Period Thriller
The iconic Agatha Christie mystery universe kicks off the year with "Agatha Christie's Seven Dials" (January 15), a three-part period thriller adapted by Chris Chibnall. With a star-studded cast, including Martin Freeman and Helena Bonham Carter, this show promises to be a captivating journey through time and suspense. And this is the part most people miss: the menacing clockwork tone, reminiscent of "Knives Out"!
Binge: Unveiling Hidden Gems
My top recommendation on Binge is the espionage-themed "Ponies" (January 16). In this unique take on the Cold War, two women discover their capabilities and the schemes of their Soviet hosts. It's a thrilling comic-drama with a twist, and you won't want to miss it! Also on Binge, "Run" (January 1) explores the life of a notorious criminal, Brenden Abbott, through a captivating six-part series. With George Mason and Keiynan Lonsdale leading the cast, it's a thought-provoking look at psychology and relationships.
Disney+: A World of Magic and Superheroes
Ryan Murphy, the creator of "American Horror Story," brings us "The Beauty" (January 22), a beautiful-people-go-body-horror adaptation that's sure to be a wild ride. With an impressive cast, including Evan Peters and Rebecca Hall, this show might just be the wildest release of the month. But is it the best? You'll have to decide for yourself!
Also on Disney+, "Wonder Man" (January 28) takes a satirical look at the superhero genre. With Deston Daniel Cretton, who brought us the excellent "Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings," at the helm, this show promises to be a fun and unique take on the superhero trope. And with Ben Kingsley returning as Trevor Slattery, it's a must-watch for Marvel fans!
HBO Max: Offbeat Adventures and Medical Dramas
For a change of pace, my top pick on HBO Max is "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms" (January 19). This offbeat fantasy adventure is a welcome break from the usual wartime plotting. With a focus on a naive young knight and his chirpy squire, it's a humorous and genuine take on the Game of Thrones universe. Also on HBO Max, "The Pitt" (January 9) returns for its second season, continuing its groundbreaking medical drama with a new installment set on a hectic Fourth of July weekend.
Stan: Australian Stories and Sharp-Edged Dramas
Brooke Satchwell delivers a career-best performance in "Dear Life" (January 1), a sharp-edged comic-drama about grief and redemption. With a tough sense of humor and unrelenting pain, this series is a must-watch for fans of Australian television. Also on Stan, "Goolagong" (January 4) tells the story of a groundbreaking Australian tennis player and Indigenous figure, Evonne Goolagong, through a biographical drama made with her input and that of her husband.
Amazon Prime Video: Spy Thrillers and Heist Dramas
"The Night Manager" (January 11) returns for its second season on Amazon Prime Video, with Tom Hiddleston reprising his role as the reluctant MI6 operative, Jonathan Pine. This time, the focus shifts to Colombia, and we're treated to the return of Olivia Colman as Pine's supervisor. Also on Amazon Prime Video, Sophie Turner stars in the heist thriller "Steal" (January 21), a British production set in the offices of a pension fund's investment arm. It's a thrilling ride with a Die Hard-esque echo.
Apple TV: White-Knuckle Thrillers and Comic Dramas
"Hijack" (January 14) is a white-knuckle hijacking thriller that will keep you on your toes. With Idris Elba returning as the corporate fixer, Sam Nelson, this time he's on a train in Berlin's underground rail system. Can he outsmart the intruders? Also on Apple TV, "Shrinking" (January 28) continues its frisky journey with a second season, but will it need to course-correct to get back to its trademark Californian angst?
ABC iview: Australian Biopics and Groundbreaking Stories
"Goolagong" (January 4) is my top pick on ABC iview, a biographical drama about the iconic Australian tennis player and Indigenous figure, Evonne Goolagong. With a talented cast and the input of Goolagong herself, this show promises to be a powerful and inspiring watch. Also on ABC iview, "In Flight" (January 8) is a British crime thriller that explores a parent's worst nightmare.
SBS On Demand: British Crime Thrillers and Documentaries
My top recommendation on SBS On Demand is "In Flight" (January 8), a British crime thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With a compelling story and a talented cast, including Katherine Kelly, this show is a must-watch for fans of gripping drama. Also on SBS On Demand, "Girl Taken" (January 8) is a taut psychological thriller based on Hollie Overton's novel, "Baby Doll."
