The holiday season brings a vast selection of new television content from a returning hit series like Squid Game alongside other fresh dramas. From a gritty series based on the troubles to light romantic comedies there is a selection available for different viewers during the holiday break on popular streaming platforms such as Netflix Disney+ and Paramount+.
'Squid Game' Season 2: Returning to the Battleground of Social Inequality and Personal Sacrifice on Netflix
The smash Korean drama series Squid Game has returned after a break bringing back the stark desperation underlying the game where society's injustices continues driving victims to risk everything. Lee Jung-jae acting as Gi-hun must bear the physical and emotional scars of previous competitions now committed to stopping the competition though this time his efforts will require his greatest sacrifice. Squid Game now in its second season explores themes regarding powerlessness facing larger entities with brutal actions highlighting injustice. Netflix will start streaming this new chapter from December 26 continuing exploration into social commentary by this series.
'Say Nothing' Offers Nuanced Perspective into the Troubles through Personal Stories from Disney+
Say Nothing a drama about the Troubles requires great precision as it discusses an ongoing painful conflict with recent tragic memories in a narrative approach from a specific perspective. The show provides insight from both paramilitary volunteers and also the family of the abducted Jean McConville with key IRA figures Dolours and Marian Price. Lola Petticrew along with Hazel Doupe will bring the stories to life in gripping nuanced and at times disturbing performances that touch upon the recent conflicts. The adaptation of Patrick Radden Keefe's novel debuted on Disney+ in a release for streaming now providing deeper story context .
Queen Woo' Explores Political Maneuvering, Sensuality and Bloodshed in Korean Goguryeo Kingdom on Paramount+
Queen Woo set in the ancient Korean Goguryeo kingdom dives into themes that include palace politics with a strong emphasis on racy sequences and brutal conflicts. Queen Woo Hee was loosely adapted from history however much information is conjecture from historical records that go back about two millennia. This powerful Queen attempted to consolidate her rule following her father King Ko Nam Moo’s death by marrying his younger brother but it did cause conflict. The series debuted on Paramount+ streaming service beginning Monday December 23.
'The Famous Five' Modern Adaptation Explores Gender Stereotypes at Sinister Prospect Hotel on BBC iPlayer
The Famous Five often associated with British wholesomeness features modern touches through the direction of Nicolas Winding Refn notably George who boldly challenges common gender standards set in that time period. In their latest story the five friends reunite at the ominous Prospect Hotel described as not quite the spot for children where they investigate a murder of a jazz pianist adding a layer of mystery to the children's stories. The show combines classic themes of friendship for children with sinister elements for adult audiences currently streaming on BBC iPlayer starting from December 23.
'The Road Trip' Provides Funny and Spicy Romantic Drama Exploring Past Relationships on Paramount+
The Road Trip an adaptation of Beth O'Leary's book tells the story of a couple that separated some time ago after a recent traffic accident causing Addie portrayed by Emma Appleton plus Dylan acted out by Laurie Davidson who must journey together in a forced road trip experience to a mutual friend's wedding in Spain. Initially their past breakup seemed straightforward but multiple flashbacks create a deeper and layered approach which begins shifting views on the rights and wrongs along with feelings left unexplored during initial separation. The series will be streaming on Paramount+ beginning Boxing Day.
'Rivals' Blends 1980s Glamour with Powerful Characters In a Tale of Sex and Power On Disney+
Jilly Cooper’s series titled Rivals brings colourful glamour along with a blend of 80s sex and powerful characters making the series enjoyable. The story shows regional television power battles with a focus on sex and alcohol making it an easy commission for series order given it’s wide ranging scope with an incredible ensemble cast. Katherine Parkinson played Lizzie and Danny Dyer acted Freddie together making a strong onscreen pairing creating intrigue for where their story will lead. Disney+ now has available all seasons of Rivals after release as another new series to watch .
'Black Doves' Delivers Absurdist Spy Thriller With Star Power Lead Cast Members Streaming On Netflix
Black Doves offers audiences mindless entertainment with an espionage story that revels in its own absurd plot even as logic may seem shaky for those that look for strict detail. Sarah Lancaster takes on the role of Reed the icy head of the covert Black Doves agency. Key operative Helen played by Keira Knightley who is married to a government minister and a trigger man named Sam role played by Ben Whishaw both are pulled into conspiracy stories that rise in danger during each episode. This thriller released for streaming by Netflix is currently available offering unique approach to the spy genre.