New Netflix Disaster Series Surges in Streaming Rankings Despite Low 29% Audience Rating

Despite receiving mixed reviews from audiences, Netflix’s latest disaster series is gaining traction on streaming platforms. The genre of disaster narratives, whether inspired by real events or purely fictional, has shown a consistent ability to attract viewers on Netflix. One notable example is “Society of the Snow,”directed by J.J. Bayona, which emerged as the third most-watched film on Netflix during the first half of 2024. This gripping drama recounts the harrowing true story of a Uruguayan rugby team stranded in the Andes Mountains following a devastating plane crash in 1972.

Hot on its heels, “Under Paris”claimed the fourth position in viewership. This French film, directed by Xavier Gens, showcases the trials of a marine biologist battling an enormous shark threatening the city of Paris. As we transition into the new year, a unique miniseries consisting of just four episodes is also gaining momentum.

A Fictional Narrative Inspired by Real Events

The miniseries La Palma is rapidly ascending the charts on Reelgood, placing fifth in audience popularity during the week of December 19 to 25. Crafted by the creative team of Martin Sundland, Lars Gudmestad, and Harald Rosenløw Eeg, with direction by Kasper Barfoed, this four-part drama focuses on a catastrophic volcanic eruption in the Canary Islands. The storyline not only portrays the threat of global disaster but also follows a young scientist’s race against time to avert a potential ecological crisis faced by a family of four.

While the series is fictional, it draws inspiration from the real-life island of the same name in the Canary Islands.

According to Reelgood, the show competes with other popular titles like “Dexter: Original Sin”on Paramount+, “Shrinking”on Apple TV+, and “The Agency”on Showtime, while “Yellowstone”leads the list.

Featuring actors such as Thea Sofie Loch Næss, Anders Baasmo Christiansen, and Ingrid Bolsø Berdal, La Palma has not been warmly received by critics. Garnering a mere 29% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from over 250 verified ratings, the series has faced criticism for its narrative logic and resolution.

Our Perspectives on La Palma

Potential Appeal for Genre Enthusiasts

Sara with her mother and brother in La Palma

The miniseries might be worth exploring, especially for those with an affinity for the disaster genre. Fans of survival tales may find echoes of themes present in “La Palma”within J.A. Bayona’s earlier film, “The Impossible,”celebrated especially for Tom Holland’s impactful performance. Despite the similarities, “La Palma”offers its unique perspective, relying heavily on the viewer’s mood and taste for narrative depth.

For further insights and updates on trending content, visit Reelgood.

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