Netflix has a new disaster drama show that has already crashed the top 10

On December 17, 2024By Littum

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” might be the one to watch. This show, directed by Kasper Barfoed, debuted on the platform last week on December 12 and has already managed to climb the charts, overtaking one of the year’s favorite thrillers, “Black Doves”.

At the time of writing (16 December) “La Palma” has entered Netflix’s top 10, landing at no.3. This is pretty impressive for a show that’s only been on the streaming service for four days, and it has the potential to climb even higher.

The show follows a determined young scientist who struggles to warn the world of a massive volcanic eruption that threatens with the potential to trigger a global catastrophe. Meanwhile, a Norwegian family navigates the escalating threat of ecological disaster.

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. But just because something hits the top 10 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?

La Palma | Official Trailer | Netflix – YouTube

Look at

On the scenic island of “La Palma”, a tragic accident involving a glass-bottomed boat claims the lives of unsuspecting tourists. Soon 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 to be off to a lucky start when they are upgraded to a luxurious room, but their luck may not last 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.

Although the drama is fictional, it is grounded in reality. La Palma is a real island and its volatile Cumbre Vieja volcano, the most active in the Canary Islands, last erupted in 2021.

Should you stream ‘La Palma’ on Netflix?

Cover of new disaster drama show

(Image credit: Netflix)

If gripping disaster dramas are your thing, “La Palma” power be worth a place on your watch list. Although it has not received one Rotten tomatoes score yet, its audience rating currently sits at 38% (as of December 16), which isn’t exactly glowing.

Many viewers have pointed out problems with the story, described as having “plot line errors” and criticized the writing, despite praising the “stunning visuals.” However, some fans have found it a riveting experience, with comments such as, “I’ve never been more invested in a natural disaster show.”

Based on the two critic reviews currently available on the site, both give positive feedback. LeisureByte’s Archi Sengupta said, “La Palma is entertaining and watchable, making us see a terrifying reality in an engaging way.” Meanwhile, Chris Joyce from Movies and Munchies believes that “character development is uneven and there are some incredible plot conveniences, but the stunning visuals, palpable moral dilemmas, and family dynamics work to offset the shortcomings, so this isn’t a complete story disaster.”

Based on the mixed reviews, it’s hard to tell if “La Palma” is one must be seen for everyone. But if you’re into stories that delve into complex family dynamics and the high tensions of natural disasters, this show delivers on both fronts.

Don’t you feel it? See what’s new on Netflix this week or stream these miniseries on Prime Video for quality entertainment.

Stream “La Palma” on Netflix now.