☕️ TL;DR
Recent recommendations: Film — Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle – Chapter 1: Akaza Strikes Again Film — Predators .TV (US) — Homos Season 1. TV (CN) — Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty: Chang’an .TV (HK) — News Queen 2 .TV (KR) — The Manipulation Game. TV (US) — The Diplomat Season 3. TV (JP) — Living Slow in a One-Story House. Film — The World of Wonders: 35th Anniversary Special – Legendary Autumn Special. Animation — Tatsuki Fujimoto 17–26

A few exciting trailers: Super Mario Galaxy: The Movie official trailer, Toy Story 5 teaser, The Devil Wears Prada 2 first trailer, Fallout Season 2 official trailer, People Come, People Go first teaser.

A few film & TV updates: First Kiss set for Mainland China release on December 5; Yesterday’s Youth set for December 5; Cells at Work! (Live Action) will release on November 22; Death Stranding: ISOLATIONS officially announced.

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[Film] Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle – Chapter 1: Akaza Strikes Again

• Keywords: Manga Adaptation / Fantasy / Action / Adventure
• Also Known As: Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Infinity Castle – Part 1: Akaza Returns
• Runtime: 155 minutes
• Where to Watch: In theaters; Douban link

“The strong protect the weak—that is the true law of nature!”

@SHY: The final battle is here. The Master steps into the fray himself, cornering Muzan Kibutsuji, while the rest of the Demon Slayer Corps rush to his aid—only to be transported into the demon-infested Infinity Castle. Shinobu encounters Doma, the murderer of her sister; Zenitsu reunites with his former senior Kaigaku; and standing before Tanjiro and Giyu is none other than Akaza, the Upper Rank Three who killed Flame Hashira Kyojuro Rengoku.

If Hollywood blockbusters are the crown jewels of American film, then Demon Slayer is undoubtedly the flagship of Japanese animation. Ever since Episode 19 “Hinokami” went viral, studio ufotable has spent multiple seasons and a feature film refining its production system, finally reaching a new peak with the Infinity Castle trilogy. Using 3D modeling as the base and layering it with meticulously crafted hand-drawn animation, the film constructs dynamic multi-dimensional action throughout the endlessly expanding otherworldly space—delivering visuals that are nothing short of breathtaking.

The film’s three central battles each shine in their own way. With fluid camera movements and spectacular effects, the clashes of Breathing Styles and Blood Demon Arts erupt with overwhelming force—while the showdown with Akaza remains electrifying from beginning to end. Both sides unleash everything they have; the action is grand and explosive, while the flashbacks are tender and deeply emotional—evoking tears more than once. This record-breaking entry pushes the cinematic potential of 2D animation to its limits, delivering a sensory feast rivaling even the most polished live-action blockbusters.

[Film] Predators

• Keywords: Sci-Fi / Action / Thriller
• Also Known As: Predator: Badlands
• Runtime: 107 minutes
• Where to Watch: In theaters; Douban link

Honor in his heart, charging toward death.

@SHY: Deik, a Predator considered a disgrace to his clan, sets out alone on a long and grueling off-world hunt. There, he encounters Sia—a Weyland-Yutani synthetic who has lost the lower half of her body—and the two form a temporary alliance. But threats loom from every direction: not only from the planet’s native species, but also from Sia’s former comrades. Only through blood and battle can they carve out the faintest chance of survival.

Following last year’s “Zelda saves Link” comeback moment, the Predator—long relegated to being stylishly beaten up in his own franchise—finally rises to the forefront as the main protagonist. Director Dan Trachtenberg, long hailed as the savior of the series, overturns the usual formula by placing the Predator in a disadvantaged position. Forced to face a hostile alien environment and Earth fleets armed with cutting-edge technology, the reversal of hunter and prey naturally opens the door to a far more unpredictable—and compelling—adventure.

The film knows exactly what its audience wants: satisfying, relentless action above all else. Embracing a blood-and-fire aesthetic, it stages cathartic battles between monsters, mechs, and synthetics. This time, the Predator—struggling to survive on an alien world—no longer relies solely on high-tech gear; instead, he fashions deadly weapons from whatever the environment provides, giving the action scenes not just visceral thrills but tactical nuance. While the screenplay isn’t particularly outstanding, the film is ultimately a well-crafted, thoroughly entertaining popcorn blockbuster—one that restores confidence in the future of the franchise.

[TV Series] The Sympathizer — Season 1

• Keywords: Drama / Sci-Fi
• Also known as: Wycaro
• Runtime: About 50 minutes per episode × 9 episodes; Douban link

Your health and happiness mean everything to us.

@潘誉晗:
439 days ago, scientists detected a set of mysterious signals. These signals followed a pattern, almost like Morse code, urgently waiting to be decoded. Realizing it might be some kind of genetic sequence, they immediately launched animal experiments. On this day, Carol and her agent witnessed something bizarre at a bar—everyone around them suddenly froze mid-action, bodies twitching as if someone had hit a universal pause button.

A cosmic virus from 600 light-years away had struck Earth. But instead of causing bloodshed or mass casualties, it simply merged over a billion people into one collective being. Everyone began sharing memories, resources, and consciousness—everyone except a handful of survivors, including Carol. But this created an utterly terrifying scenario: aside from the few who remained untouched, no one was themselves anymore.

When the entire world is submerged in a blissful virus and wholeheartedly embraces it, and you alone are still awake—should you act? And how do you resist billions of people?
Created by the teams behind Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, and starring Better Call Saul’s Rhea Seehorn, this apocalyptic series uses a high-concept premise to deliver a dystopian parable. Its opening is nothing short of stunning.

[Mainland China] Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty: Chang’an

• Keywords: Action / Mystery / Thriller / Crime / Fantasy / Adventure
• Also known as: Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty 3
• Runtime: About 45 minutes per episode × 40 episodes
• Available on: iQIYI; Douban link

The Tang Detective Six reunite once again~

@潘誉晗:
Picking up right where Season 2 left off, Lu Lingfeng, Su Wuming, and the rest of the six-member team return to Chang’an to escort the Golden Peach of Kang Kingdom. With the peach’s arrival, bizarre incidents begin unfolding across the flourishing Tang Empire. Anyone who consumes the Golden Peach becomes the target of an attack by a giant bird. Meanwhile, Chengfo Temple has been far from peaceful in recent months—strange cries of a woman echo through the night, casting the temple into public suspicion.

After a year-long wait, the highly acclaimed third season of the “Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty” series arrives as promised, bringing eight brand-new cases: The Golden Peach of Kang, The Crying at Chengfo Temple, The Traces of Baize, The Record of Nuogao, Five Feet from Heaven, Mural of Qiting Pavilion, The Borrower of Years, and The Prosperous Polo Match. Blending historical elements with supernatural intrigue, the series once again carries forward the Chinese horror aesthetic and ghost-tale style of its previous seasons. With light and shadow as its brush and the eerie as its ink, each atmospheric case is gleaming with mystery. Hidden within the flickering candlelight, every truth reveals and interrogates the depths of human nature. At the same time, the political duel between Emperor Li Longji and the Princess adds yet another layer of intrigue. The lavish and resplendent Tang Dynasty unfurls like an illusion-woven dream—seemingly enchanting, yet roiling with undercurrents beneath its beauty.

[Hong Kong Drama] The Queen of NEWS 2

• Keywords: Drama
• Also known as: The Queen of NEWS Season 2 / The Queen of NEWS: Continuation / The Queen of NEWS Ⅱ
• Runtime: About 42 minutes per episode × 25 episodes
• Available on: Youku; Douban link

The Queen is back.

@潘誉晗:
Riding on the momentum and acclaim of its first season, The Queen of NEWS 2 became a hit even before airing, setting a new platform record for the highest number of ads in a single episode—an undeniable testament to its commercial value. The story wastes no time either: within the first five minutes, a key character from the previous season, Leung King-yin, dies. His position is then taken over by an outsider, Koo Chau-wah, who cares only about how sensational a news story is and whether it can bring more profit to the TV division. Meanwhile, Man Wai-sum, having left SNK, decides to change her career lane and ventures into independent media.

A building collapse in Yuen Long, dark conspiracies in the real-estate world, the impact of AI anchors on the news industry… With its familiar pacing, the new season continues to tackle topics that closely mirror reality. Yet this increased realism also brings even more complex challenges to Man Wai-sum, who now fights her battles alone. Back at SNK, she had resources—now, she has only herself to rely on. At the same time, the show pulls no punches in exposing the darker side of the workplace: shirking responsibility, pressure from upper management, and more. It’s precisely through these raw revelations that the women who uphold their professional values shine all the brighter—resilient, unwavering, and powerful.

[K-drama] The Manipulated

• Keywords: Drama / Crime
• Also known as: 조각도시 / The Manipulated
• Runtime: About 60 minutes per episode × 12 episodes; Douban link

• A Shawshank Redemption–style version of Squid Game.

@潘誉晗:
Delivery worker Park Tae-jong is kind-hearted and hardworking, yet he ends up in prison for a brutal rape-and-dismemberment case. He didn’t kill anyone, but the police presented “irrefutable” evidence. Sentenced to life behind bars, his girlfriend leaves him, and his younger brother dies as a result of the scandal. Later in prison, he meets a new inmate whose case mirrors his exactly—even down to having the same defense lawyer. It’s only then that Tae-jong realizes everything was part of a meticulously orchestrated trap.

Adapted from the film Fabricated City, the series retains certain elements of the original while expanding its scope with fresh storytelling. After all, Ji Chang-wook, the lead actor of the film, stars again in the drama. This time, the narrative introduces a more enigmatic mastermind—chaebol Ahn Yo-han, a man who delights in manipulating the fates of others. Born into privilege and armed with limitless wealth and power, he specializes in cleaning up messes for the elite. To people like him, someone like Tae-jong is the perfect scapegoat.

The powerless taking on the powerful—this fast-paced revenge drama delivers both emotional catharsis and adrenaline. The action scenes are solid too.

[U.S. Series] The Diplomat Season 3

• Keywords: Drama / Thriller
• Also known as: The Diplomat Season 3
• Runtime: About 50 minutes per episode × 8 episodes
• Available on: Netflix; Douban link

Marriage—somehow even more complicated than diplomacy.

@潘誉晗:
Season 3 of The Diplomat returns with a stunning cold open—the sudden death of President Rayburn. The unexpected crisis throws everyone off balance. According to the 25th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, Vice President Grace steps in as President. But Kate knows all too well what Grace is capable of. She wants to become Vice President herself, to support Grace and keep an eye on her. Instead, Grace appoints Hal as Vice President.

The reshuffled political landscape not only alters global dynamics but also forces Kate into a personal and professional dilemma. Should she move to Washington as the Vice President’s wife, or stay in London as an ambassador? By its third season, this female-led political thriller uses its high-stakes scenarios to further explore the challenges women face in balancing career and family.

As a highly capable ambassador, Kate has all the talent she needs to prove herself. If she can rise through sheer merit, why should she become an accessory to any man? Marriage, after all, is harder to navigate than diplomacy.

[Japanese Series] Hiraya-sumi

• Keywords: Drama
• Also known as: ひらやすみ
• Runtime: About 15 minutes per episode × 20 episodes; Douban link

What does a life without worries look like?

@利兹与青鸟:
At 29, Hiroto Ikuta is still a freeter—an ordinary-looking man with no steady job, living off part-time work. Kind and introverted, he becomes close friends with an elderly woman named Hide, and upon her passing, he unexpectedly inherits her single-story Tokyo house with a small courtyard. This miraculous windfall suddenly makes Hiroto the object of everyone’s envy—the man who seemingly has no worries at all. His cousin Natsumi Kobayashi gets accepted into an art university in Tokyo and moves in with him. Naive, adorable, and prone to shouting her childhood cat’s name whenever she has a social anxiety meltdown, Natsumi is the perfect contrast to Hiroto, whose life has been slow and unchanging. And so begins their shared life under one modest roof.

Adapted from the picture book of the same name and narrated by Satomi Kobayashi, the series glows with warm sunshine tones and moves with the same unhurried pace as its title—yet each episode is only 15 minutes. The story flows through daily meals and small gatherings of friends. Hideki, a married friend about to become a father, envies Hiroto’s carefree freedom as he grapples with family pressures. Natsumi, unsure of her future and unable to confess that her dream is becoming a manga artist, struggles quietly. The girl who will soon enter Hiroto’s life is an overworked real estate agent who can’t help but grumble about how relaxed Hiroto always seems. And Hiroto himself—carefree and uncomplicated—becomes a gentle, healing harbor for everyone around him.

[Film] The World of Wonders — 35th Anniversary Special: Legendary Masterpieces, Autumn Special

• Keywords: Drama
• Also known as: 世にも奇妙な物語 35 周年 SP～伝説の名作 秋の特別編
• Runtime: 130 minutes; Douban link

No matter how far civilization advances, it will one day come to an end — but as long as humanity exists, stories will always be needed.

@Sholmes:
Tokunaga is drowning in debt when he receives an invitation to play a game of “Red Light, Green Light.” Whenever he hears the command, he must remain perfectly still for 30 seconds. If he succeeds 30 times, he’ll win 3 billion yen. Misaki and Kensuke lose their way; the couple spots a place called “Your Museum” by the roadside and decides to go in to ask for directions. Morisaki returns to his apartment after work only to be informed by city officials that he must move out. Due to a surge in crimes occurring specifically on the seventh floor of buildings nationwide, the government has decided to eliminate the seventh floor from all structures. A son, who ran away from home when he was young, grows up, marries, and moves into a house that once appeared in his father’s paintings, triggering waves of memories.

The first two stories expose the darker sides of human nature — in a cutthroat world where everyone schemes against each other, even the closest relationships demand caution. But the final story shifts toward warmth, centering on family bonds and reconciliation. No matter how many years have passed, blood ties remain unbroken. The contrast between good and evil beautifully illustrates the complexity of human nature. And when the son regrets not fulfilling his filial duties, the father’s line — “Your birth was the greatest act of filial piety” — is deeply moving.
The “Seventh-Floor Dispute” story expands the theme to a national level, evoking parallels to real events such as the absurd agricultural output reduction policy implemented when Japan’s rice prices surged. Its outrageous premise cleverly satirizes real-world bureaucracy and societal contradictions.

[Animation] Tatsuki Fujimoto 17–26

• Keywords: Manga Adaptation / Fantasy / Romance / Youth
• Also known as: 藤本タツキ 17-26 / Tatsuki Fujimoto 17-26
• Runtime: Approximately 18 minutes (per episode) × 8 episodes
• Viewing platform: Amazon Prime Video; Douban link

My foolish little sister.

@SHY:
How does a genius manga artist come to be? You can find the answer by looking at his early works. This time, multiple studios have come together to adapt eight short stories that Tatsuki Fujimoto created between the ages of 17 and 26 into an animated series, giving us a glimpse of his growth as an artist. His early work, There Were Two Chickens in the Yard, already established his signature quirky imagination and romantic expression. The following three stories are all centered around vibrant love, each with its own charm. From the boy who confesses his unrequited love to his teacher, to the president who throws caution to the wind for a confession, and the atypical love between a killer and a vampire — each couple is both touching and lovable.

The later stories from ages 22–26 are more mature. Mermaid Rhapsody is full of youthful energy, with a sudden ending that’s classic Fujimoto style. The Illness of Waking Up as a Girl barrels ahead with its fantastical premise, but underneath all the chaos, it hides a delicate emotional core. The Prophecy of Nayudo incorporates many elements of Chainsaw Man, where the destructive brushstrokes are unusually tender. The final story, The Sister of My Sister, which was released last, uses art as its central theme, exploring the bond between sisters caught in the divergence of their talents. It’s almost like a prelude to Looking Back.

Fujimoto’s ideas alone carry the weight of this high-quality animation anthology, and with this, it leaves us eagerly awaiting future adaptations like Flame Fist and Goodbye, Eri.

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[Film] Now You See Me 3 @潘誉晗: For years, the seemingly powerful Vanderberg family has been using their diamond business to build a vast criminal network. To restore justice, the original Four Horsemen reunite, determined to expose the family’s crimes. Nine years later, the Now You See Me series finally returns with its long-awaited third installment. Close-up magic, holographic projections, group hypnosis, mirror mazes, upside-down castle rooms… the Horsemen’s tricks still dazzle the crowd — and still “steal” justice with flair.

[Film] Frankenstein @利兹与青鸟: Guillermo del Toro, the Mexican director long obsessed with monsters, finally gets to adapt Mary Shelley’s classic. Yet the film is not as unique as many expected. Told through fragmented perspectives of Victor and the Creature, the movie uses refined, visually striking imagery to explore the feverish and brutal medical science of the 19th century, oppressive patriarchy, the loneliness of a broken creation, and the tenderness and love beneath gothic horror — while also rewriting the ending.

[K-drama] The Sin You Witnessed @潘誉晗: Out of anguish for her friend Hee-soo, who suffers domestic abuse, Eun-soo — once a victim herself — decides to help Hee-soo murder her husband to win freedom. Based on Japanese writer Okuda Hideo’s novel Naomi and Kanako (also adapted into a brilliant Japanese drama), the Korean remake localizes the story while centering on two abused women committing a shared crime. It shines a spotlight on domestic violence and carries strong real-world relevance.

[Chinese Series] Double Shadows @潘誉晗: Police discover an ATM withdrawal tied to Qin Hong — a fugitive who has been on the run for over a year for murder. Following this lead, they find Ma Weicheng, who eventually confesses that Qin Hong is already dead and her body was dumped into the sea. Adapted from author Zefan’s novel, the series follows a woman’s path of revenge, weaving in family ethics, fraud, and other social-realist elements that give the story extra depth.

[US Series] Palm Royale Season 2 @Sholmes: After the beach gala, Maxine is sent to a psychiatric facility, her friend Linda is detained, and Robert lies in a coma after being shot. In control of the situation, Norma schemes to force a divorce between Douglas and Maxine to activate the family trust. Caught in hallucination-blurred dreams, Maxine overhears Norma’s plot to destroy her, escapes the facility, and vows revenge. Beneath Palm Beach’s sunlit glamour and martinis lie schemes, betrayal, and the harsh reality of women being suppressed.

[US Series] Derailed Frontier @潘誉晗: A prison transport plane crashes in Alaska, carrying 52 inmates and one mysterious last-minute prisoner. For this group of criminals, the crash symbolizes freedom. The survivors immediately scatter into the wilderness. Brutal fugitives struggle to survive the frozen wilds while local detectives chase them and simultaneously clash with the CIA. An airborne jailbreak and a deadly manhunt in the extreme cold — the show is tense, severe, and gripping.

[Taiwanese Series] Had I Not Seen the Sun @利兹与青鸟: Notorious “Rainstorm Killer” Li Ren-yao turns himself in, giving documentary planner Zhou Pin-yu the chance to interview him. Through real-world investigation and eerie, dream-like visions, she unravels threads involving domestic abuse, school bullying, and authoritarian violence, planting suspense around shifting identities. The dark, unsettling atmosphere is well-crafted, though the pacing is slow and some plot choices predictable. Still worth watching for the actors and performances.

📅 This Week’s New Trailer

Super Mario Galaxy Movie Official Trailer

On November 12, the animated film Super Mario Galaxy Movie released its first official trailer Directed again by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, with Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day, and Jack Black all returning to voice their roles. Brie Larson joins as the voice of Rosalina, and Ben Safdie voices Bowser Jr. The film is set for a global release in April 2026. Source

First Teaser for Toy Story 5
On November 12, Pixar unveiled the first teaser for Toy Story 5, which will hit North American theaters on June 19, 2026. Directed and written by Andrew Stanton, the film brings back voice actors Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, and Joan Cusack. This time, the toys face a major “digital-age crisis,” going head-to-head with the electronic devices that today’s kids can’t seem to put down. Source

First Trailer for The Devil Wears Prada 2

On November 13, the first trailer for The Devil Wears Prada 2 was released
The film is set to hit North American theaters on May 1, 2026. David Frankel returns as director, with Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Meryl Streep reprising their roles. Miranda’s career is beginning to decline, while Emily is now an executive at a luxury conglomerate—and Miranda desperately needs the company’s advertising revenue. Source

Official Trailer for Fallout Season 2
On November 13, the acclaimed game-to-series adaptation Fallout unveiled its official trailer for Season 2, premiering December 17 on Amazon Prime Video. Westworld creator Jonathan Nolan continues to helm the project, with Ella Purnell, Aaron Moten, and Walton Goggins starring. This season takes viewers across the Mojave Wasteland and into the post-apocalyptic city of New Vegas. Source

First Trailer for Man vs. Bee (Christmas Special)
On November 10, the British series Man vs. Bee released its first trailer. The four-episode special will arrive on Netflix on December 11. Directed by David Kerr, it marks the return of legendary comedian Rowan Atkinson (Mr. Bean). Trevor Bingley—who previously caused chaos in Man vs. Bee—once again sparks a chain of hilarious mishaps while house-sitting, delivering a warm yet chaotic Christmas comedy. Source

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Official Trailer for King Marty: Directed by Joshua Safdie (Good Time, Uncut Gems), the film stars Timothée Chalamet and Gwyneth Paltrow. Set in the 1950s, it follows American table tennis player Marty Mauser and his pursuit of a grand dream. The film is set to hit North American theaters on December 25. Source

New Trailer for Marvel Series Wonder Man: Starring Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Ben Kingsley, the series follows a retired filmmaker who returns to the industry to shoot a new project. An aspiring superhero actor, a washed-up veteran, and an opportunistic agent all rush to join the fray, as various figures converge to expose the darkest corners of Hollywood studios. The 8-episode series will premiere on Disney+ on January 27, 2026. Source

First Trailer for Monarch: Legacy of Monsters Season 2: Kurt Russell, Anna Sawai, Kiersey Clemons, Ren Watabe, and Takehiro Hira all return. The fierce battles between Godzilla and the Titans reduce San Francisco to ruins, leading into a shocking new world where monsters truly exist. The season is scheduled to launch on Apple TV on February 27, 2026. Source

📽 Weekly Film & TV News

** First Kiss Sets Mainland China Release for December 5**
On November 12, the film First Kiss released its mainland China release trailer and poster, announcing a December 5 premiere. Directed by Ayuko Tsukahara (Unnatural) and written by Yuji Sakamoto (We Made a Beautiful Bouquet), the film stars Takako Matsu and Hokuto Matsumura. It tells a story of love and reunion that transcends time, boasting a high Douban rating of 8.5. It was also recommended in this week’s “What to Watch,” issue 250801. Source

Youth Yesterday Sets Mainland China Release for December 5

On November 10, the film Youth Yesterday released its mainland China release trailer and poster, announcing a December 5 premiere. Written and directed by Ryuichi Sakamoto’s son, Sora Neo, the story takes place in a near-future Tokyo plagued by frequent earthquakes. Five high school students — including Yuta and Sachi — must face a choice between friendship and self-interest after pulling an outrageous prank. The film was also recommended in “What to Watch,” issue 250404. Source

Live-Action Cells at Work! Sets Mainland China Release for November 22

On November 12, the live-action film Cells at Work! released its mainland China release trailer and poster, confirming a November 22 premiere. Directed by Hideki Takeuchi and starring Mei Nagano and Takeru Satoh, the film follows a red blood cell and a white blood cell teaming up to protect the body, as bacteria and viruses storm in for an all-out microscopic showdown. The film was also recommended in “What to Watch,” issue 250411. Source

DEATH STRANDING ISOLATIONS Announced

On November 13, it was revealed that the game Death Stranding will receive an original animated series titled DEATH STRANDING ISOLATIONS (working title), slated to premiere on Disney+ in 2027. Directed by Takayuki Sano and produced by E&H Production, with Hideo Kojima serving as executive producer, the series tells the stories of ordinary people — each dealing with loneliness in their own way — as Sam travels across the North American continent. Source