Top Streaming Picks: Muppets Return, Cake Chaos & Chess Champions
This week's streaming lineup offers a delightful mix of nostalgia, intrigue, and pure entertainment, with seven standout shows arriving on platforms like Disney+, Netflix, and Prime Video. From beloved puppet revivals to gripping real-life stories, there's something for every viewer.
The Muppet Show: A Nostalgic Revival
The Muppet Show makes a triumphant return, blending top-tier nostalgia with fresh energy. Aimed at both longtime fans and new audiences, this one-off special features the anarchic charm of Miss Piggy, Kermit, and the gang, alongside guest stars like Sabrina Carpenter and Seth Rogen. With simmering beef between Miss Piggy and Carpenter, cameos from Maya Rudolph, and snarky commentary from Statler and Waldorf, it's a whirlwind of musical spoofs and self-aware humour. Some may find it tries to squeeze too much in, hinting that a full series could be the next logical step. Available on Disney+ from Wednesday 4 February.
Investigation of Lucy Letby: A Troubling Case
Netflix's The Investigation of Lucy Letby delves into the harrowing crimes of the convicted nurse, featuring previously unseen footage of her arrest and questioning. While it doesn't add significant new insights, it briskly summarises the uncertainties surrounding the case, including the lack of motive and procedural issues at the hospital. The documentary raises the troubling question: if Letby didn't kill seven babies, why did they die? Available on Netflix from Wednesday 4 February.
Mo Gilligan: In the Movement – Brit in America
Popular London comic Mo Gilligan brings his gentle observational comedy to Netflix with his first standup special from the United States. Leveraging his new outsider status, Gilligan explores the experience of being a Brit in America, the impact of fame on his family, and humorous takes on modern dating, like the many manifestations of "the ick." Honed from years of red carpet banter, it's solid, relatable entertainment. Available on Netflix from Tuesday 3 February.
Is It Cake? Valentines: A Pink Confection
In possibly the pinkest TV special ever made, Is It Cake? Valentines offers a hysterical celebration hosted by the irrepressible Mikey Day. Real-life couples attempt to render items like gigantic red lips, candles, and romantic novels in flour, eggs, and icing, leading to cakey-breaky hearts and absurd fun. Without nutritional value but irresistible as part of a balanced diet, it's a sweet treat for viewers. Available on Netflix from Wednesday 4 February.
Queen of Chess: A Gripping Documentary
This gripping documentary, Queen of Chess, tells the real-life story of Hungarian chess prodigy Judit Polgár, echoing themes from The Queen's Gambit. It explores the sexism she faced, with critics claiming women lack the logical reasoning to excel. Polgár's journey includes breaking into the world top 100 at age 12 and a 15-year battle against Garry Kasparov, filled with innovation and controversy. A must-watch for chess enthusiasts. Available on Netflix from Friday 6 February.
Arctic Circle: Finnish Crime with a Twist
The Finnish crime drama Arctic Circle stands out with its taste for the bizarre. In its fourth season, police chief Nina Kautsalo investigates mysterious deaths at a retirement home linked to an astronomical event from two millennia ago. The plot expands to include space exploration, international terrorism, and a revival of a religious sect, offering a unique blend of crime and sci-fi. Available on Channel 4 from Friday 6 February.
Finding Harmony: A King's Vision – Royal Insight
In a departure from royal tradition, Finding Harmony: A King's Vision offers an intimate look at King Charles III's environmental commitments. Narrated by Kate Winslet, this carefully choreographed documentary explores his work with the King's Foundation, positioning him as a maverick holding firm to sustainability visions against vested interests. While not "warts and all," it provides insight into his lifelong dedication to nature. Available on Prime Video from Friday 6 February.
With this diverse selection, streaming platforms deliver a week packed with entertainment, from lighthearted fun to thought-provoking dramas, ensuring viewers have plenty to enjoy.
