The Streaming Week Ahead: ‘Frasier,’ ‘The Walking Dead,’ and More on Netflix
Netflix has yet another jam-packed week of entertainment in store for viewers. From the final episodes of “The Walking Dead” to the much-anticipated return of “Lupin” and the recent horror release “The Pope’s Exorcist,” it’s a week that promises something for everyone.
As we do every week, let’s dive into the (potential) highlights that Netflix has in store for us in the upcoming seven days. From Monday to Sunday, the streaming giant is serving up a variety of exciting content, ranging from the end of a zombie era to thrilling DC action, Russell Crowe’s horror debut, and the return of a beloved Netflix series fans have been waiting for over two years.
Monday: A Breather Before the Storm
After delivering a cinematic feast at the beginning of the month with titles like Martin Scorsese’s “The Age of Innocence” and all seasons of the cult series “Shameless,” Netflix takes a bit of a breather on Monday. But don’t worry; things are about to get more exciting as the week unfolds.
Tuesday: ‘The Walking Dead’ Comes to a Close
The epic zombie saga, “The Walking Dead,” has prepared a grand finale with an XXL season of 24 episodes, divided into three parts of eight episodes each. Fans had to exercise patience during the breaks between these parts. In late 2022, the last episode of “The Walking Dead” aired, even appearing on Disney+ in some regions. However, Netflix subscribers had to wait nearly a year longer. Finally, on Tuesday, the final eight episodes will bring this post-apocalyptic series to a somewhat circular conclusion. Despite this ending, the franchise will continue with several spin-offs.
Wednesday: One of the Best DC Films
Following a lukewarm reception for David Ayer’s “Suicide Squad,” James Gunn, known for “Guardians of the Galaxy,” took a stab at a new film featuring the anti-hero team. The result, “The Suicide Squad,” lands on Netflix on Wednesday. It’s a wild and entertaining blockbuster, easily one of the best DC films to date.
For those with different tastes, options include the Philippine family drama “Keys to the Heart,” the sci-fi thriller “The UFO Conspiracy” featuring “X-Files” UFO expert Gillian Anderson, the extreme mountaineering documentary “Edge of the Abyss,” and the four-part documentary series “Beckham” about the English football star.
Thursday: ‘Lupin’ Season 3
The French heist series “Lupin” stands as one of Netflix’s biggest hits, even outshining some of the streaming giant’s major US titles. Fans have been eagerly awaiting the return of master thief Assane Diop (Omar Sy), and on Thursday, they’ll finally get to celebrate with the arrival of the third part of “Lupin.”
Additional streaming treats from outside the USA include the British coming-of-age series “Everything Now” and the Indian espionage thriller “Khufiya.”
Friday: Competition for the ‘John Wick’ Spin-off?
While “Ballerina” is set to be the upcoming spin-off of the popular “John Wick” series, Netflix offers an action film of the same name from South Korea. This action-packed movie revolves around a vengeance-driven woman, paralleling the “John Wick” narrative.
For those seeking less confusion but still a good watch, there’s the Mexican comedy “Tödliche Einladung,” reminiscent of the series hit “Only Murders in the Building,” and the sixth season of “Young Sheldon,” the spin-off of “The Big Bang Theory.”
Saturday: Fantasy Comedy From Korea
Just a day after “Ballerina,” Netflix delivers more content from South Korea on Saturday, this time in the form of a series. “Strong Girl Nam-Soon” follows a young woman with supernatural powers returning to her homeland in search of her biological family, only to get entangled in a drug scandal.
Sunday: 2023’s Movie Horror Shock
Similar to the recent dino sci-fi thriller “65,” “The Pope’s Exorcist” arrives on Netflix just six months after its theatrical release. While it doesn’t receive a strong recommendation due to its reliance on familiar exorcism horror tropes, the film does bring entertainment value, thanks in part to Oscar-winner Russell Crowe. This marks Crowe’s first leading role in a full-fledged horror film, and he appears to have had a blast with it.
Prepare for an exciting week of streaming with Netflix, filled with compelling shows, movies, and even a taste of horror for those brave enough to venture into “The Pope’s Exorcist.”