The Platform
What it’s about: A satirical Spanish science-fiction film, The Platform in the name refers to a platform bearing a rich cornucopia of food that descends through an experimental top-down tower-style prison, where all prisoners in the prison are – theoretically – able to eat well if everyone takes their fair share of the food. No points for guessing that in reality, the prisoners at the top of the building get the lion’s share of the food, with everyone at the lower levels feeding off the ever-dwindling leftovers.
Who’s in it: Ivan Massague, Antonia San Juan, Zorion Eguileor, Emilio Buale Coka and Alexandra Masangkay.
Why watch it: If you think about it, this is quite an apt film that mirrors these messed up times we live in right now, especially with the current every-man-for-himself mentality where we see people scrambling to disproportionately stock up on “necessities” – in the process, making it harder and more inaccessible for people who might really need these amenities, such as those with disabilities or are financially strained.
When it’s available: March 20
Kingdom: Season 2
What it’s about: The critically acclaimed period drama set in 15-century Korea that mixes palace politics adeptly with a spreading zombie epidemic.
Who’s in it: Ju Ji-hoon, Ryu Seung-ryong, Bae Doona and Kim Sung-kyu
Why watch it: The debut season of Kingdom was Netflix’s first Korean original – and clearly it’s found many fans, hence the greenlighting of the second season. Even if you’re not a fan of either period drams or zombies, Kingdom is a refreshing take on both genres; when’s the last time you heard of a well-made take on zombies set in a medieval period? Season two promises to be a lot bloodier (though we have to say, the first season already holds its own against series such as Game of Thrones, where gore was used liberally) and to answer a lot of the cliffhangers from the first season.
When it’s available: March 13
Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker
What it’s about: A documentary on the haircare entrepreneur Sarah Breedlove, more commonly known as Madam C. J. Walker, often billed as America’s first self-made female millionaire.
Who’s in it: Oscar winner Octavia Spencer, Blair Underwood and Tiffany Haddish
Why watch it: We’ll watch anything with Octavia Spencer in it. No but seriously, it’s a fascinating look at how a woman, especially a black woman in early 1900s America built an empire while battling racial and gender biases – bearing in mind she did so in a period before women even got the rights to vote in America. Then, there’s also the fact that the documentary looks to be a visual feast for those who love period costumes.
When it’s available: March 20
