Netflix has a tense new disaster show that has already won first place

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If you want to dive into a show that will have you gripping the edge of your seat, Netflix’s The latest disaster drama “La Palma” could 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 (December 17) “La Palma” has entered Netflix’s top 10 and landed in the No. 1 spot. This is actually very impressive for a show that has only been on streaming service for over four days, and it may not budge from the top spot for a while.

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 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. 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.

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. The show was created by Martin Sundland, Lars Gudmestad and Harald Rosenløw Eeg (Bølgen), and directed by Kasper Barfoed, and was written by Gudmestad and Rosenløw Eeg. It stars Thea Sofie Loch Næss, Anders Baasmo Christiansen and Ingrid Bolsø Berdal.

The story takes place on the real-life island of La Palma, home to the volatile Cumbre Vieja volcano, which last erupted in 2021. Although fictional, the drama draws heavily on real-world events and features intense, realistic action that places viewers in the middle of the ecological crisis.

While it may seem odd to release a disaster series during the holiday season, it seems many of us are ready to enjoy a dose of existential drama along with our holiday celebrations. Plus, the show itself is actually set around Christmas time, as the family of four visits Spain for the holidays.

Should you stream ‘La Palma’ on 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 35% (as of December 17), 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? 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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