The Nurse, Netflix
This Danish true-crime thriller tells the story of a seemingly kind and charming nurse who was convicted for four counts of attempted manslaughter over a period of 16 years. The stylish and thoughtful series begs questions about Danish society, the law and humanity. From the producers of The Chestnut Man, it is sure to be a mega hit. Watch it.
A Small Light, Disney +
In this utterly divine drama, which was ‘inspired by actual events’, Anne Frank’s father’s secretary Miep Gies helps the family into hiding. The Guardian says: ‘A Small Light’s emotional strengths appear under a great cloud, of course. We know the ending, despite the moments of rousing hope and temporary triumph that allow us, just for a second, to believe that it may be different. Yet the point is not to despair, but to illuminate courage.’ Watch it.
Judy Blume Forever, Amazon Prime
For many women who are now of a certain age, Judy Blume’s novels were vital reading. In her breakthrough novel Are You There God, It’s Me, Margaret (1970) and subsequent corkers, she discussed themes like sexuality, grief and bullying that barely featured in young adult fiction. Now the beloved US writer, 85, has collaborated on a charming documentary about her life and career. Throughout the film Blume and legions of her fans, who will be forever grateful, explain the impact her writing had on a generation. Watch it.
The Diplomat, Netflix
There is a lot of buzz about Netflix’s stylish new drama, The Diplomat. When Kate Wyler takes up the post of US ambassador to the UK, her already troubled marriage – to a political star played by Rufus Sewell – falters. Purists will need to overlook the first episode’s absurd ending. The series, shot beautifully on location in London, is plain sailing from there. Watch it.
Obsession, Netflix
Obsession is a remake of 1992’s unforgettable erotic thriller Damage, which starred Jeremy Irons and Juliette Binoche. Critics have bones to pick with the series, in which Richard Armitage plays the seducer, and are anyway questioning the need for a new Damage. We think it will win its fans and that you deserve the right to make up your own mind. (Or you could just watch Damage again.) Watch it.
Andrew: The Problem Prince, Channel 4
With the Coronation over, royal watchers may feel a little hungry. The world is divided into those who have no time at all for this particular beleaguered prince and those who are compelled towards every gruesome detail of his downfall. The latter camp will lap up this documentary that goes behind the scenes of his disastrous Newsnight interview. Watch it.
By Becky Ladenburg
May 2023
