The start of a new year always brings about plenty of new films and TV shows, but after being spoilt for choice it can be hard to know what to watch first. So here are Platform’s top picks for January…
The White Tiger
Balram Halwai was raised in poverty with the desire to one day be a servant. However, after becoming a driver for a rich Indian couple, he soon realises that he means nothing to them and is used as a scapegoat after a car crash. But, this betrayal fuels him to take matters into his own hands. He fights against the corrupted system and rises in society.
Vikings
The show first began back in 2013, but 2021 has started with the release of the final ten episodes. With a weakened Bjorn, adventurous Ubbe, doubtful Hvitserk and ambitious Ivar, the bloodshed is inevitable. But who will be left standing, and who will control the Northern gem of Kattegat?
Cobra Kai
The first two seasons of the Karate Kid spin-off series were filled with drama, humour, and incredible fight scenes, and the third season only got better. From Miguel’s recovery process to the cancellation of the All Valley Tournament. Plus, the season also welcomes loads of Karate Kid Part 1 and two cast members, including Elisabeth Shue as Ali Mills, Tamlyn Tomita as Kumiko, and Yuji Okumoto as Chozen.
Below Zero
This Spanish action thriller is perfect for anyone who enjoys films like The Fugitive and Con Air. It follows the journey of Martin, a National Corp Police officer who with his partner is tasked of delivering prisoners to their jail. But on icy roads in foggy conditions, it’s no surprise someone takes advantage, but which of the six prisoners is trying to orchestrate an escape?
The Little Things
Denzel Washington stars in this latest crime thriller as Deke, alongside Rami Malek as Detective Baxter and Jared Leto as Albert Sparma. The film follows the life of Deke who teams up with Baxter to search for a serial killer, but as they search for the little things to catch the killer, they uncover a lot of big problems.
Riverdale Season 5
After defeating the Blackhood, Gargoyle King, and numerous others, it is not surprising that the core four find themselves in another sticky situation for Season five. Now it seems someone is creating videos to torment them. With prom, graduation, and college around the corner. there is a lot at stake. Netflix is releasing weekly episodes of the latest series, with two out already for you to stream.
Fate: The Winx Saga
Netflix has adapted yet another one of our childhood classics and made it into a thriller action TV series. However, it’s not quite as we remember it – as these fairies don’t have wings. Watch as Bloom and her friends learn more about their magic and fight against burned ones, all whilst dealing with typical teenage drama. The show is full of friendships, fighting and fairy magic, and all six episodes are on Netflix now.
The Dig
With WW2 just around the corner, this film is about a wealthy widow hires archaeologist Mr Brown after finding burial sites on her estate. But this is a dig like no other, as the team find a wooden ship and other items from the Anglo-Saxon period. The film is based on a true story, starring Ralph Fiennes as Mr Brown and Carey Mulligan as the widowed Edith Pretty.
The Great Escapists
This show is the perfect binge watch for all the Top Gear/Grand Tour fans, as Richard Hammond teams up with Tori Belleci for Amazon’s latest survival series. Together, the petrol head and scientist create a civilisation on the island, whilst working on their many escape plans. From automatic fish catchers to go-karts and helicopters, maybe being on a desert island isn’t that bad.
WandaVision
Disney’s latest Marvel Studios release their latest TV series, following the lives of Wanda Maximoff and Vision in their new suburban lives. The series is exclusive to Disney Plus and began releasing episodes in January. But with superpowers and altering realities, not all is as it seems.
These are just ten of the amazing shows and films released this month. There are plenty more for you to watch, whether you’re streaming on Netflix or watching TV.
By Laycie Beck
Feature image: Ohio State News – The Ohio State University