Q Wave’s Watchlist: February 2024
"There's nothing to watch" is not a phrase that should exist in a world drowning in content. Join us every month to get curated content - from the latest and greatest to revisiting oldies - we'll help you avoid the dreaded “Netflix Block” and find something to watch!
One Day (Netflix)
Netflix, renowned for its success in delivering heartwarming love tales like the To All the Boys I've Loved Before series and the Heartstopper TV show, is gearing up to enchant viewers just in time for Valentine's Day. Introducing One Day, a television series that brings to life David Nicholls' acclaimed 2009 novel.
Commencing on the night of July 15, 1988, during Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew's graduation, the narrative unfolds as these two characters, on the brink of completing their university journey, share their first conversation. The following morning, they part ways, setting the stage for a captivating journey. The audience is invited to witness where they find themselves on this seemingly ordinary day the next year and in the subsequent years that follow. With each episode, Dex and Em age by a year on this specific date, navigating the complexities of life, growing together and apart, and encountering both jubilation and heartache.
While the novel was previously adapted into a 2011 film featuring Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess, Netflix is now reviving the tale as a television series. This format shift offers the opportunity to delve deeper into the characters' lives as they mature, sharing in each other's joys and enduring the trials that life presents.
One Day debuts on February 8th, with all 14 episodes available for streaming.
You'd like this if you enjoyed: Modern Love, The Summer I Turned Pretty
Runtime: 14 episodes
Genre: Romance
Mr. & Mrs. Smith (Amazon Prime)
In the realm of espionage and romance, Mr. & Mrs. Smith stands out as a quintessential blend of both elements. Originally a 2005 action-comedy film written by Simon Kinberg and featuring the star power of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, the narrative revolves around a married couple discovering their shared roles as spies from rival agencies. Now, after 18 years, this iconic tale is undergoing a transformation into a TV series, exclusively on Prime Video.
Beyond its cinematic success, Mr. & Mrs. Smith has a history that includes a short-lived TV series in 1996 and a failed pilot in 2007, both attempts to extend the story beyond the original film. The common thread across these adaptations is the intriguing premise of the titular characters leading dual lives as a seemingly ordinary married couple and deadly assassins. The TV series introduces two disparate individuals who find themselves employed by a mysterious spy agency, promising a life filled with espionage, wealth, global adventures, and a dreamy Manhattan brownstone. The twist: they assume new identities in an arranged marriage, becoming Mr. & Mrs. John and Jane Smith. As the newlyweds, John and Jane grapple with high-stakes missions weekly, all while navigating the complexities of a budding relationship. Their cover story takes an unexpected turn when genuine emotions start to blossom between them.
Stepping into the lead roles are Donald Glover and Maya Erskine as John Smith and Jane Smith, respectively. Glover, a versatile talent known for his acting, comedy, writing, music and producing skills, has recently wrapped up the successful four-season run of his show Atlanta, contributed to Swarm, and made a cameo appearance in Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. Erskine, celebrated for her work in the comedy series Pen15 and roles in shows like Insecure and Casual, brings her charm to the forefront after starring in the 2019 rom-com Plus One and contributing to Obi-Wan Kenobi and the animated film Super Pets.
Mr. & Mrs. Smith is slated to premiere on Prime Video on February 2nd.
You'd like this if you enjoyed: Slow Horses, Killing Eve
Runtime: 8 episodes
Genre: Action, comedy
Curb Your Enthusiasm (Crave)
Celebrating over two decades of uproarious laughter, Larry David, the comedic genius behind the enduring and Emmy Award-winning series Curb Your Enthusiasm, is back for an eagerly anticipated twelfth season. While Larry has been a comedic force since his days co-creating the iconic Seinfeld, this upcoming season promises to deliver even more outrageous escapades in the heart of Los Angeles.
Returning for what may be the final installment, Larry David reprises his role as a hilariously exaggerated version of himself, navigating the daily minefield of trials and tribulations with his signature style. In his hands, life's minor irritations have a tendency to escalate into uproarious chaos. The upcoming season is rumored to be the show's swan song, making it a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike.
For the twelfth consecutive time, Larry David brings his unique brand of humor, showcasing his ignorance of, or indifference to, societal norms and expectations. Whether unwittingly violating established conventions or enforcing rules known only to him, Larry's antics promise an unforgettable ride through the absurdities of daily life.
While Curb Your Enthusiasm has some serialized elements, its largely episodic nature allows viewers to dive into Season 12 without having seen previous seasons. Larry David's comedic brilliance remains timeless, making this upcoming season a perfect entry point for those looking to experience the laughter-filled chaos for the first time.
Season 12 premieres on February 4th, and all 11 previous seasons are currently available on Crave.
You'd like this if you enjoyed: Seinfeld, Extras
Runtime: 10 episodes
Genre: Comedy
Self Reliance (Paramount Plus)
Comedian Jake Johnson steps into uncharted territory this winter, showcasing his multifaceted talents as the director and star of the all-new comedy feature, Self Reliance. Widely recognized for his role in New Girl and a diverse array of movies, including Safety Not Guaranteed, Tag, and the Spider-Man: Spider-Verse films, Johnson now takes the reins with complete creative control in "Self Reliance."
A mundane existence takes an exhilarating twist when middle-aged Tommy (played by Johnson) finds himself invited into a limo by none other than the renowned actor Andy Samberg. The offer: a chance to win a million dollars in a dark web reality TV show. The catch: surviving 30 days while international assassins attempt to eliminate him. The caveat? He can't be killed if he's not entirely alone, prompting him to assemble an unlikely team to ensure his survival.
Jake Johnson not only commands the screen with his performance but also takes charge behind the scenes, directing, writing, and producing Self Reliance. While this marks Johnson's directorial debut in a feature film, his prior experience directing an episode of the popular series New Girl underscores his creative prowess. Joining forces with Johnson in the production realm is co-star Andy Samberg, along with the other members of the Lonely Island trio, Jorma Taccone and Akiva Schaffer.
Self Reliance is currently available to stream on Paramount Plus.
You'd like this if you enjoyed: Palm Springs, Win It All
Runtime: 99 minutes
Genre: Comedy
Constellation (Apple TV+)
Apple TV+ is weaving a tapestry of conspiracies, action, adventure, and drama in its highly anticipated series, Constellation. Positioned as a conspiracy-based psychological thriller drama, the show chronicles the journey of a woman determined to reconstruct the fragments of her life.
At the heart of Constellation is Jo (Noomi Rapace), an astronaut who has recently returned to Earth after a space catastrophe. While physically unharmed, Jo discovers crucial aspects of her life missing, prompting her to embark on a gripping quest to unravel the mysteries surrounding her. This action-packed odyssey not only unveils the truth about her own existence but also delves into the darker realms of space travel history, offering viewers an enthralling exploration of the human psyche.
The brainchild of creator, writer, and executive producer Peter Harness, known for his work on acclaimed shows such as Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell, Wallander, and The War of the Worlds, Constellation promises a riveting narrative.
Mark your calendars for the debut of the first three episodes on Wednesday, February 21, exclusively on Apple TV+. Subsequent episodes will be released weekly, until the finale on March 27.
You'd like this if you enjoyed: Mr. Robot, Severance
Runtime: 8 episodes
Genre: Genre: Sci fi, thriller