If you’re looking to dive into a show that will have you gripping the edge of your seat, Netflix’s newest disaster drama “La Palma” could be the one to watch. Directed by Kasper Barfoed, this show debuted on the platform last week on December 12 and has already managed to climb the charts, overtaking one of my favorite thrillers of the year, “Black Doves.”
At the time of writing (December 17) “La Palma” has rocketed into Netflix’s top 10, landing in the No.1 spot. This is actually very impressive for a show that’s only been on the streaming service for over four days, and it might not budge from the top spot for a while.
The show follows a determined young scientist who fights to warn the world of a massive volcanic eruption that looms with the potential to trigger a global disaster. Meanwhile, a Norwegian family navigate the escalating threat of an ecological catastrophe.
If you’re a fan of intense disaster dramas like “Chernobyl” or “The Impossible”, you might not want to miss “La Palma” now that it’s streaming. However, just because something claims No.1 doesn’t always mean it’s worthy. Here’s everything to know about “La Palma” and whether it’s worth a spot on your watchlist.
What is ‘La Palma’ about?
On the scenic island of “La Palma”, a tragic accident involving a glass-bottomed boat claims the lives of unsuspecting tourists. Shortly after, Fredrik (Anders Baasmo Christiansen), Jennifer (Ingrid Bolsø Berdal), and their children, Sara (Alma Günther) and Tobias (Bernard Storm Lager), arrive for their annual getaway. The trip seems off to a lucky start when they’re upgraded to a luxurious room, but their luck might not hold for long.
Meanwhile, geologists Marie (Thea Sofie Loch Næss) and Haukur (Ólafur Darri Ólafsson) uncover alarming evidence that a massive volcanic eruption is imminent, one powerful enough to wreak havoc not just on the island but across continents. As tremors shake La Palma, Marie and Haukur must persuade their supervisor, Álvaro (Jorge de Juan), to act before it’s too late.
What else do we know about ‘La Palma’ now that it's streaming?
“La Palma” is a four-part disaster show set on the westernmost island of the Canary Islands. Created by Martin Sundland, Lars Gudmestad, and Harald Rosenløw Eeg (The Wave), and directed by Kasper Barfoed, the show is co-written by Gudmestad and Rosenløw Eeg. It stars Thea Sofie Loch Næss, Anders Baasmo Christiansen, and Ingrid Bolsø Berdal.
The story unfolds on the real island of La Palma, home to the volatile Cumbre Vieja volcano, which erupted most recently in 2021. While the drama is fictional, it draws heavily on real-world events and features intense, realistic action that places viewers in the midst of the ecological crisis.
Though releasing a disaster series during the festive season may seem odd, it seems many of us are ready to enjoy a dose of existential drama alongside our holiday celebrations. Plus, the show itself is actually set around Christmas time as they family of four visit Spain during the festive period.
Should you stream ‘La Palma’ on Netflix?
If gripping disaster dramas are your thing, “La Palma” might be worth a spot on your watchlist. While it hasn’t received a Rotten Tomatoes score yet, its audience rating currently sits at 35% (as of December 17), which isn’t exactly glowing.
Many viewers have pointed out issues with the storyline, describing it as having “plot line failures,” and criticizing the writing despite praising the “stunning visuals.” However, some fans have found it to be a captivating experience, with comments like, “I’ve never been more invested in a natural disaster show.”
Based on the two critic reviews currently available on the site, both offer positive feedback. LeisureByte’s Archi Sengupta said: “La Palma is enjoyable and binge-watch-worthy, making us watch a terrifying reality in an engaging way.” Meanwhile, Chris Joyce from Movies and Munchies thinks the “character development is uneven and there are some unbelievable plot conveniences, but the stunning visuals, palpable moral dilemmas, and family dynamics work to offset the shortcomings so this isn’t a full-on storytelling disaster.”
Based on the mixed reviews, it’s difficult to determine if “La Palma” is a must-watch for everyone. However, if you’re into stories that delve into complex family dynamics and the high-stakes tension of natural disasters, this show delivers on both fronts.
Not feeling it? Check out what’s new on Netflix this week or stream these miniseries on Prime Video for quality entertainment.
Stream "La Palma" on Netflix now.
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