What to Watch This Week | 10 Recent Works Worth Your Time

🎬 [Film] Good News

Keywords: Comedy / Thriller / Crime
Also known as: 굿-뉴스 / Good News
Runtime: 136 minutes

Never lose to the stupid pigs of capitalism!

@潘誉晗: On March 31, 1970, members of the Japanese Red Army hijacked Japan Airlines Flight 351. Armed with guns, they forced the pilots to fly to Pyongyang, North Korea. At this critical moment, a mysterious man who claimed to be a “random passerby” appeared. He devised a daring and creative rescue plan — landing the plane at South Korea’s Gimpo Airport, which was disguised as Pyongyang.

Indeed, this film, adapted from Japan’s first-ever hijacking incident, centers around a rather serious subject. Some viewers have even called it the “Korean version of Argo.” Yet, under the director’s clever use of cinematic language, this dark comedy avoids an overly heavy tone. Instead, it tells its story with sharp humor and satire — mocking politics, leaders, and heads of state with fearless wit. Through imaginative fantasy sequences and exaggerated performances, the film becomes both hilarious and deeply ironic.

The cast is also impressive, featuring Sol Kyung-gu, Hong Ling, Jeon Do-yeon, and Yamada Takayuki — powerhouse actors from both Korea and Japan.

🎬 [Film] The Roses

Keywords: Drama / Comedy
Also known as: The Roses
Runtime: 105 minutes; Douban link

Two people you’d never expect to have chemistry… and yet, they do.

@利兹与青鸟: Architect Theo and chef Ivy fall in love at first sight. Their marriage is filled with warmth — they have two children, support each other’s dreams, and seem to have the perfect life. But a violent storm brings crisis: Theo’s architectural masterpiece is destroyed, while Ivy’s restaurant earns glowing reviews from a top critic. One loses his career and becomes a stay-at-home father; the other’s career takes off. Though they try to support each other, their feelings grow more and more out of sync — leading to endless conflict and emotional tug-of-war.

While the story of a middle-class couple in midlife crisis isn’t new, Olivia Colman and Benny’s characters and performances make it captivating. Their odd chemistry, eccentric romance, and dry British wit wrap marital tragedy in a comedic shell. The clever script transforms crises into moments of humor, perfectly embodying the phrase “love and war.” The film portrays the pain, frustration, and power struggles of intimacy with both subtlety and exaggeration, building toward an explosive emotional climax that’s both gripping and satisfying.

🎬 [Film] That Summer in Paris

Keywords: Drama
Also known as: Le Rendez-vous de l’été / That Summer in Paris
Runtime: 77 minutes; Douban link

I can choose to be different from others.

@利兹与青鸟: This is a small story set during the 2024 Paris Olympics. Blandine, a kind but awkward young woman, doesn’t quite fit in with others. She takes a week off to watch the swimming events in Paris, but things go wrong from the start — her oversized backpack prevents her from entering the stadium, the hostel kicks her out due to Olympic regulations, and even her half-sister who offers her a place to stay has her own family troubles to deal with. Yet Blandine remains calm and open-minded, showing both tolerance and sharpness in her responses.

The film earned two nominations at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival. With on-location shooting during the Paris Olympics, it has a documentary-like authenticity. Its soft, natural tone, Rohmer-like visuals, and outsider’s perspective capture both the beauty and contradictions of Paris — the liveliness and luxury, but also the hypocrisy beneath the surface. It intertwines urban civilization with natural scenery, offering both comfort and melancholy. Meanwhile, harsh institutions and radical protests reveal another side of the city. But these unpleasant encounters are only part of Blandine’s journey — her quiet resilience and unexpected luck make the ending deeply healing.

📺 [Chinese Series] Silent Glory

Keywords: Drama
Also known as: Dark Night Deep Sea / At Dawn / Deep Sea 1950
Runtime: ~45 minutes per episode × 39 episodes
Available on: iQIYI; Douban link

“If I never return, then I never return.”

@潘誉晗: In 1949, as Fuzhou awaited liberation, General Wu Shi suddenly received an order from Chiang Kai-shek — appointing him as the new Deputy Minister of National Defense and demanding that he travel to Taiwan. But Wu Shi was, in fact, a key Communist operative embedded within the Kuomintang. During his time in Taiwan, he transmitted crucial intelligence to the Chinese Communist Party’s East China Bureau. After his original courier was killed, a Communist member named Zhu Feng volunteered to take over the dangerous mission.

As the first drama to authentically depict the underground Communist network operating in Taiwan, Silent Glory draws extensively from national archives and the recollections of descendants. Its historical details are meticulously crafted. Though this covert struggle ended in tragedy, the courage and conviction of those who pressed forward despite knowing the outcome is deeply moving.

Yu Hewei and Wu Yue deliver outstanding performances — every subtle glance and restrained expression brims with emotion.

“I ride a white horse through three gates.” If there’s no return, then so be it — no return.

[Netherlands] Amsterdam Empire

Keywords: Drama / Crime
Also known as: Amsterdam Empire
Runtime: ~42 minutes per episode × 7 episodes
Available on: Netflix; Douban link

A divorced woman tears down a scumbag’s empire.

@潘誉晗: Jack is a famous coffee businessman in the Netherlands, owner of a well-known coffee chain called “Jackal.” One day, his wife Betty discovers his affair. Jack takes the opportunity to ask for a divorce — but Betty isn’t one to be bullied. Furious, she strikes back: she agrees to the divorce, but demands the house, the car, the dog, and even Jack’s proud coffee business — she wants it all.

Though the affair premise might sound sensational, the story is built upon a particularly unique Dutch policy — the government allows individuals to possess up to 5 grams of marijuana. As a result, coffee shops in the Netherlands are legally permitted to sell cannabis. However, the cultivation of marijuana remains tightly controlled. On the surface, Jack runs a legitimate coffee business, but secretly, he is also a drug dealer. He moves between the dual identities of businessman and criminal, believing his facade to be flawless — until he betrays his wife.

Blending elements of marital conflict, revenge, drug trafficking, and business warfare, the series unfolds with tight pacing. Through the breakdown of a marriage, it reveals the corruption and desire of a drug lord, and through the wife’s revenge, it explores the many-sided and complex nature of humanity.

[British Series] Blue Lights Season 3

Keywords: Drama / Thriller / Crime
Also known as: Blue Lights Season 3
Runtime: ~60 minutes per episode × 6 episodes; Douban link

This truly is a filthy city.

@潘誉晗: A new method of drug trafficking has recently appeared in Belfast. A mysterious organization has created an invite-only app where users can place drug orders — and within 30 minutes, the goods are delivered. The drugs are also cheap, because the masterminds have only one goal: to use the app to build a vast social network that reaches doctors, police officers, politicians, and business elites.

Continuing the high standards of its previous two seasons, BBC’s underrated hit Blue Lights returns for its third season, once again focusing on Belfast’s drug trade. This time, the upgraded criminal operation makes life harder for Grace, Annie, and Tommy — the three reliable yet still “rookie” officers. One delivery girl they encounter is not only underage but also a former orphan from Grace’s social work days. Although their goals align, the intervention of the Organized Crime Unit adds another layer of difficulty to the investigation.

Belfast — the capital of Northern Ireland — is portrayed as a truly filthy city, a dazzling illusion woven from the most beautiful lies, riddled with corruption and decay. Fortunately, there are still officers like Grace and her team who hold fast to their faith.

[American Series] Mayor of Kingstown Season 4

Keywords: Drama / Thriller / Crime
Also known as: Mayor of Kingstown Season 4
Runtime: ~50 minutes per episode × 8 episodes
Available on: Paramount+; Douban link

This time, Mike is truly furious.

@潘誉晗: Across the train tracks, something terrible happens — several unknown men are drugged, laid across the rails, and brutally decapitated by an oncoming train. Meanwhile, the prison has a new warden — a tough woman who enforces strict control. She’s unimpressed by Mike’s attempts at diplomacy and refuses to protect his brother Kyle, who is about to be incarcerated. Soon after entering prison, Kyle is attacked. This time, Mike’s rage knows no bounds.

Returning with explosive intensity, Mayor of Kingstown Season 4 wastes no time diving into hard-hitting drama. Although the Russian gang storyline from Season 3 has been resolved, the power vacuum left behind draws the attention of rival factions, igniting violent turf wars. The escalating chaos threatens Mike’s fragile control over Kingstown — especially now that his brother is in prison without family support.

Set within Taylor Sheridan’s signature universe, Kingstown continues its brutal “violence breeds violence” narrative. Yet it seems endless — every act of vengeance only begets greater turmoil. One can’t help but wonder: how will Mike end it all this season?

[Japanese Drama] Futari Escape

Keywords: Manga Adaptation / Slice of Life / Comedy / Deadline Procrastination
Also known as: ふたりエスケープ / Futari Escape
Runtime: 23 minutes per episode × 10 episodes, updated every Sunday; Douban link

The sweetest flavor comes from slacking off right before the deadline.

@SHY: “The key to escaping reality,” says the senior full of twisted logic, “is to create situations where you have to be lazy.” With that, she throws her junior’s phone — overloaded with 99+ unread messages — into a mailbox, and together they set off on a spontaneous trip just before the submission deadline. A manga artist who never turns in work until the last moment × a shut-in senior whose only redeeming quality is her cuteness — these two always find new ways to procrastinate.

The original manga began as a self-published work by creator Taguchi Shichii, inspired during his own hectic deadlines. It struck a chord with readers and was later serialized in Comic Yuri Hime. Interestingly, besides being a mangaka, Taguchi is also the lead vocalist and songwriter for a rock band, so he naturally handled the show’s music as well. The soundtrack’s variety and style shifts are among its biggest highlights. The drama stars Nao Tomisato and Rena Iwamoto from Nogizaka46 — a duo whose charm and chemistry make the series effortlessly pleasant to watch.

When life’s tasks pile up like mountains, giving yourself room to breathe isn’t a bad thing. A short break can be the best way to recharge for what’s next — just don’t look back, and enjoy the moment fully. With its supreme sense of relaxation and lazy-day atmosphere, the show perfectly mirrors the modern state of mind. The casual, witty exchanges between the two leads hide the quiet romance of everyday life — a delightful and heartwarming “sweet snack” of a series. Perhaps, as you follow their escapades, you’ll find a brief escape from reality yourself, and regain the strength to keep going.

[Film] Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid: A Lonely Dragon Wants to Be Loved

Keywords: Manga Adaptation / Fantasy / Comedy / Healing
Also known as: 小林さんちのメイドラゴンさみしがりやの竜 / Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid: A Lonely Dragon Wants to Be Loved
Runtime: 105 minutes / 101 minutes (Mainland China) / Includes a post-credits scene
Available in theaters; Douban link

Because of you, I’m no longer lonely.

@SHY: Miss Kobayashi and her dragon companions are living peaceful lives when suddenly, Kanna’s father appears, threatening to take her back to their realm to reclaim the lost energy within her broken dragon orb. As tensions rise toward war, Kobayashi and Tohru embark on a journey to rescue Kanna — only to discover that there’s more to the story than it seems.

Compared to Kyoto Animation’s more experimental Small Town Days and next year’s ambitious 20th Century Electric Catalogue, this theatrical installment — firmly within the studio’s comfort zone — delivers the kind of quality viewers have come to expect. Directed again by Tatsuya Ishihara, the film plays to his strengths in everyday storytelling, blending just-right emotional beats with large-scale, gorgeously animated action sequences that explode across the big screen, thoroughly satisfying fans’ expectations.

While the main plot may be predictable, the execution still shines. Kanna’s irresistible charm is in full force — she’s determined to melt hearts — and the exploration of her relationship with her father adds depth to the theme of misunderstood love. The bond she’s built with friends in the human world stands in poignant contrast. Familiar characters return to play key roles, contributing to a well-rounded and emotionally rich ensemble. The final few lines of dialogue serve as the perfect finishing touch, making this film an excellent family-friendly experience.

[Anime] This Monster Wants to Eat Me

Keywords: Manga Adaptation / Fantasy / Romance / Mystery
Also known as: 私を喰べたい、ひとでなし / This Monster Wants to Eat Me
Runtime: 24 minutes per episode × 13 episodes, updated every Thursday
Available on: Bilibili / YouTube / Bahamut Anime Crazy; Douban link

“You went to the festival, didn’t you? With that sea creature I just met.”

@SHY: In a quiet seaside town, high school girl Hachiyosai Hinako lives alone. One day, she’s attacked by a monster — and saved by a mermaid girl named Shiori Omi, whose true intention, however, is to devour her. To keep other monsters from taking her “meal,” Shiori decides to protect Hinako until she’s “ripe.” Faced with the offer to be eaten, Hinako feels strangely relieved — and accepts immediately.

Although complicated women are common in yuri (girls’ love) stories, the suffocating melancholy of this opening hits particularly hard. Haunted by her past, Hinako has lost all motivation to live, drifting through meaningless days while awaiting death. The inhuman girl who wants to consume her, paradoxically, becomes her light of salvation. After all, only by slowly untying the knots of her heart and regaining her longing for the future can Hinako become “ripe” — the ideal flavor of life itself.

Despite its limited production resources, Studio Lings — known for exclusively producing yuri works — manages to hold the line with solid visual corrections, charming chibi interludes, and playful short skits that balance the slow pacing. Excellent music and voice acting add further emotional weight. The adaptation preserves the original manga’s heavy atmosphere, with delicate psychological depictions and a touch of supernatural horror that set it apart from typical romantic fantasies. The result is a haunting yet beautiful story of despair, desire, and quiet redemption.

Additional

[J-Drama] Royal Family

@潘誉晗: Tax accountant Noriji Kurisu receives a request to investigate the financial flow of a company’s horse-racing division, with the ultimate goal of shutting it down. Moved by President Sannou’s genuine passion for horses, he helps the president preserve the department and ends up becoming his secretary. Adapted from the novel of the same name, the drama uses the niche subject of horse racing to depict a passionate ensemble story. Though the main plot unfolds slowly, it’s still worth watching thanks to renowned screenwriter Akiko Tsukahara and a cast filled with big-name actors.

[K-Drama] Marry Me, Universe

@潘誉晗: As her wedding day approaches, Misato discovers that her fiancé has been cheating on her — and to make matters worse, the rental apartment they planned to move into turns out to be part of a housing scam, leaving her with massive debt. Just then, she receives a call saying she’s won a luxurious house. Misato decides to enlist another man named Universe, who happens to share her ex-fiancé’s name, and enters a fake marriage in order to claim the prize. Though the setup feels familiar, the strong chemistry between the leads and the brisk, cheerful pacing make it a refreshing surprise — one of Korea’s recent breakout dramas.

[C-Drama] The Legend of the Dark River

@潘誉晗: In the martial world exists an assassin organization known as “Dark River,” formed by the Mu, Su, and Xie families. One day, the patriarch of Dark River is gravely injured and near death. The other clans dispatch assassins to eliminate him and seize control. As the leader of the patriarch’s guards, Su Muyu must risk everything to protect his master amid this power struggle. Adapted from the novel of the same name, this drama stars mostly young actors, yet its well-choreographed fight scenes successfully capture the essence of a classic wuxia world.

[J-Drama] Die from Going Viral!!

@Sholmes: Asano Kanako works part-time at a pasta restaurant, living at the bottom rung of society. Despite her efforts to build a social media following, no one pays attention. One night, she accidentally records a drunk driver committing a hit-and-run and uploads the video — instantly going viral. Having found the secret to fame, Kanako begins exposing criminals the police can’t arrest, turning herself into a social media influencer. Seeking attention for clicks is nothing new, but the show reminds us that every bit of “free” fame already comes with a hidden price tag.

[UK Drama] Graveyard Circuit

@利兹与青鸟: Zoe refuses to believe her husband Joe committed suicide by slashing his wrists. She turns to Sarah — the investigator Joe had hired to search for a missing girl named Dana — and the two women begin to dig deeper, soon realizing Joe’s death is anything but ordinary. Equally strange is the so-called “missing girl,” who’s actually being protected by intelligence agents as part of a sting operation. Set in Oxford, this suspenseful story is adapted from the novel of the same name by the creators of Slow Horses. The dialogue brims with dark humor, and the two leads radiate undeniable star power.

[US Drama] All Her Fault

@利兹与青鸟: Much like the British drama The Stolen Girl that aired in April, this show is based on a Norwegian novel where a girl’s mysterious disappearance turns out to be part of a meticulously planned act of revenge. As layers of tangled relationships and hidden traumas are revealed, every character is shown to be deeply scarred. The cast is equally impressive — featuring Sarah Snook (Predestination) as the missing girl’s mother and Sophia Lillis (It) as a grieving mother who’s lost her own child. A gripping psychological thriller worth checking out.

[Film] It’s Okay Not to Be Loved

@SHY: College student Haru Ayaka, constantly struggling to make ends meet, meets her notorious classmate Eienga at her part-time job in a convenience store. Sharing similar hardships, the two begin living together after a series of incidents, supporting each other through life’s ups and downs. Adapted from the novel of the same name by Sound! Euphonium author Ayano Takeda, the film captures the bittersweet pain of youth and the scars it leaves behind. Emerging from broken families, the two find brief solace in one another — and perhaps, their quiet days together are the truest form of healing.

📅 This Week’s New Trailers

Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Arc – Chapter 1: Akaza Strikes Again Mainland China Release Trailer

On November 3rd, the animated movie Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Arc – Chapter 1: Akaza Strikes Again released its official release trailer and poster, confirming a November 14th premiere in Mainland China. This marks Demon Slayer’s debut on the big screen in China, where Tanjiro, the Hashira (Pillars), and the Demon Slayer Corps will all make appearances. In the midst of intense battles, the group unexpectedly falls into the dark and ominous Infinity Castle, where the ultimate battle is about to begin. [Source]

Oshi no Ko – Season 3 Official Trailer

On November 4th, the TV anime Oshi no Ko – Season 3 released its first official trailer, confirming its release date for January 14th, 2026. This season is adapted from the manga of the same name by Aka Akasaka (story) and Mengo Yokoyari (art). The series is once again directed by Daisuke Hiramaki, with animation production by Studio Doga Kobo. The cast includes Takao Otsuka, Yui Ishikawa, Megumi Han, and Rumi Okubo, among others. [Source]

Godzilla -1.0 First Teaser Trailer

On November 3rd, the film Godzilla -1.0 announced its sequel title as Godzilla -0.0, and released its first teaser trailer. The release date is still to be confirmed. Takashi Yamazaki returns as the director, screenwriter, and special effects supervisor, with production by Toho Studios and ROBOT. The previous installment, starring Ryunosuke Kamiki, Minami Hamabe, and Sakura Ando, won the Best Visual Effects award at the 96th Academy Awards. [Source]

Michael Jackson: The Rise of a Superstar First Trailer

On November 6th, the biographical film Michael Jackson: The Rise of a Superstar released its first official trailer. The film will be released in North America on April 24th, 2026. Starring Jafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s nephew, the film depicts the true life behind the stage of the King of Pop, recreating some of his most iconic performances from his early solo career. It showcases how this groundbreaking superstar came into being. [Source]

The Tang Dynasty Strange Tales 3 Release Trailer

On November 4th, the costume fantasy mystery drama The Tang Dynasty Strange Tales: Chang’an released its official release trailer, confirming the show’s premiere on November 8th. Directed by Ju Xingmao, written by Wei Fenghua, and starring Yang Xuwen and Yang Zhigang, along with Gao Siwen, Chen Chuang, Sun Xueling, Shi Yuean, Xin Yue, Yue Lina, and Liu Zhiyang. Set in the early Tang Dynasty in Chang’an, the series follows Lu Lingfeng, the Captain of the Jinwu Guard, and Su Wuming, the disciple of the famous Di Gong, as they lead their team to solve eight bizarre cases. [Source]📽 Film News Weekly

📽 Weekly Film and TV News

Crayon Shin-chan: Hot Spring Dance Party in Kasukabe Mainland China Release Date Set for December 6th

On November 7th, the animated movie Crayon Shin-chan: Hot Spring Dance Party in Kasukabe released its official release trailer and poster for Mainland China, confirming a premiere date of December 6th. The Kasukabe Defense Team heads to an Indian entertainment festival, where a mysterious “nose backpack” appears. After Shin-chan inserts paper into his nose, his behavior dramatically changes and turns dark. How will Shin-chan and his friends overcome this test of their friendship? [Source]

Detective Conan: Countdown to Explosion at the Skyscraper Confirmed for Release

On November 3rd, the animated movie Detective Conan: Countdown to Explosion at the Skyscraper was confirmed for release in Mainland China. The film will be shown in 4K quality on the big screen, though the release date is still to be confirmed. This film marks the beginning of the Detective Conan movie series, directed by Kenji Kodama and written by Kazunari Kudo. The film features a poignant death confession between Shinichi and Ran, as well as their fate-bound connection, which will once again resonate with audiences across time. [Source]

Revenge Princess Scarlett Confirmed for Release

On November 7th, the animated movie Revenge Princess Scarlett was confirmed for release in Mainland China, though the release date is still pending. Directed and written by Mamoru Hosoda, and produced by Studio Map, the film stars Mana Ashida and Masaki Okada. Princess Scarlett, who awakens in the “realm of moments” between life and death, seeks revenge for her fallen kingdom. However, along the way, she meets a modern-day paramedic named Sei, who has traveled back in time. [Source]

Hunt Game Mainland China Release Date Set for December 5th

On November 5th, the film Hunt Game released its official Mainland China release trailer and poster, confirming a premiere date of December 5th. The film, based on Stephen King’s novel of the same name, is directed by Edgar Wright and stars Glen Powell. A 35-year-old unemployed man enters a deadly reality show to save his daughter. He must survive in a 30-day “live-streamed hunt” to win a $1 billion prize. [Source]

Past Lives Confirmed for Release

On November 1st, the film Past Lives was announced for release in Mainland China at the 28th National Film Promotion Conference. The release date is yet to be confirmed. Directed by Celine Song and starring Greta Lee and Teo Yoo, the film tells the story of a couple’s love and growth over 24 years. It spans two hemispheres and their emotional journey. The film was also recommended in the What to Watch This Week 230825. [Source]

The Aviator Set for Release on January 17th

On November 6th, the film The Aviator released its release poster, confirming a premiere date of January 17th, 2026. Directed by Peng Fei and based on the novel by Shuang Xuetao, the film is produced by Shuang Xuetao and Wang Hongwei. It stars Jiang Qiming and Li Xueqin and tells the story of Li Mingqi, a man obsessed with flying, as he struggles through life’s difficulties in pursuit of his dreams. [Source]