Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

☕️ TL;DR

Recent recommendations: [Film] Super Mario Galaxy: The Movie, [UK Series] The Marlow Murder Club Season 3, [US Series] Company Retreat, [Norway] Detective Harry, [US Series] Outlander Season 8 / Final Season, [Animation] Ice Wall City, [Animation] Go for It, Nakamura!!, [Documentary] Scam Rock Angkor Wat, [Documentary] The Second Heartbeat

Notable trailers: Supergirl official trailer, Masters of the Universe: Rise of He-Man official trailer, The Backrooms official trailer, Euphoria Season 3 new trailer

Industry highlights: AnimeJapan 2026 animation roundup, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End confirmed for Season 3, Cold War 1994 set for release on May 1

[Film] Super Mario Galaxy: The Movie

Keywords: Game adaptation / Sci-fi / Adventure / Comedy
Also known as: The Super Mario Galaxy Movie / ザ・スーパーマリオギャラクシー・ムービー
Runtime: 99 minutes, with two post-credit scenes
Where to watch: Now in theaters; Douban link

“My name is Rosalina, the watcher of the stars.”

@SHY: While investigating a desert, Mario and Luigi meet a new companion, Yoshi. Meanwhile, at Princess Peach’s birthday banquet, an uninvited guest reveals a looming crisis across the entire galaxy. To find the missing Princess Rosalina, Mario and his team embark on an even more dazzling interstellar journey, facing off against the menacing Bowser Jr.

Despite carrying the “Galaxy” name, the film draws from an overwhelming number of games. Beyond the Sand Kingdom from Odyssey—already revealed in trailers—it also incorporates elements from other IPs like Star Fox and Pikmin. The number of easter eggs surpasses its predecessor, ensuring that at least one moment will spark your nostalgia. Of course, the galaxy theme remains central: Rosalina makes a striking appearance, the Lumas play active roles, and the adventure spans vast star systems, from the Honeybee Kingdom to the far reaches of the universe.

By skillfully orchestrating its dazzling array of elements, the film creates a theme-park-like viewing experience. It’s both a grand celebration for players and an enjoyable family-friendly film for general audiences, aiming to deliver pure joy. Considering its narrative direction and box office performance, a direct sequel seems inevitable. And now that Nintendo has established its own film division, it wouldn’t be surprising if a Super Smash Bros. Movie project is already on the table—I’m excited to see where this universe goes next.

[UK Series] The Marlow Murder Club Season 3

Keywords: Drama / Mystery / Crime
Also known as: The Marlow Murder Club Season 3
Runtime: ~45 minutes per episode × 6 episodes; Douban link

“Care to start a book club? The topic is murder and detection.”

@潘誉晗: To advocate for reopening a long-closed bridge, Suzie attends a town council meeting. Unexpectedly, within five minutes of her arrival, the mayor of Marlow, Geoffrey, collapses in front of everyone and stops breathing. Later, over afternoon tea, Suzie shares the shocking event with her friends Judith and Becks. As civilian consultants to the police, the trio decides to team up once again to uncover the truth. They interview all attendees of the meeting, each of whom describes Geoffrey as a widely admired and kind man—so why would someone poison him so brutally?

Season 3 consists of six episodes, with each pair forming a case: “The Poison Queen,” “Kill After Dark,” and “Murder Appreciation.” From the mayor’s death to a celebrity chef’s demise, and finally to a chilling murder in an eerie castle, these three cases set in the town of Marlow maintain the series’ signature style—accessible yet full of lingering mysteries. Of course, the real charm lies in watching the trio solve the cases together. Against picturesque scenery and brutal crimes, their journey to uncover the truth showcases both wit and charisma, making this third season another thoroughly enjoyable watch.

[US Series] Company Retreat

Keywords: Drama
Also known as: Jury Duty Presents: Company Retreat / Jury Duty Season 2: Company Retreat
Runtime: ~30 minutes per episode × 8 episodes; Douban link

A Truman Show-style adventure of a temp worker in a family-run business.

@潘誉晗: Anthony has recently landed a job as a temporary assistant at a hot sauce shop run by a rock-loving grandmother. This small, family-run business is planning a company retreat and needs someone to handle logistics. At the same time, the owner is preparing to hand over control to her son. As the retreat overlaps with a shift in company leadership, a series of unexpected events unfolds, leaving Anthony exclaiming, “This is more dramatic than TV.” What he doesn’t realize, however, is that he’s the one being deceived by everyone.

Created by the team behind Jury Duty, this series continues its observational experiment—this time focusing on an ordinary person. Anthony, a real-life participant, is placed into the role of a new employee, unaware that everyone else around him is an improv actor. With carefully designed scenarios and narrative possibilities, the show observes how he reacts to various situations.

Presented in a mockumentary style, the series feels highly authentic. It uses an innovative yet non-exploitative approach to humorously explore human nature and social dynamics.

[Norway] Detective Harry

Keywords: Drama / Mystery / Crime
Also known as: Jo Nesbø’s Detective Hole
Runtime: 44–63 minutes per episode × 9 episodes
Where to watch: Netflix; Douban link

“One woman murdered every five days?”

@潘誉晗: Five years ago, due to alcoholism, Detective Harry caused a car accident while pursuing a case, resulting in the death of his partner in the passenger seat. Over the past five years, his drinking problem has not improved. The police department has given him a final ultimatum to resign—but just then, a new case emerges. A woman living alone is found brutally murdered in her home, her eyes forced open by a pentagram-shaped diamond inserted into her eyelids. At the same time, a female celebrity mysteriously disappears on her way to a nearby supermarket. Harry quickly senses a connection between the two cases.

The series is adapted from Nordic crime master Jo Nesbø’s novel The Devil’s Star. With the screenplay written by Nesbø himself, the show retains much of the original’s tone. The inherently cold and austere atmosphere of Nordic settings perfectly complements the dark and sinister nature of the story. The twists, though grounded in logic, still deliver a satisfying sense of surprise. A brilliant detective unable to overcome his addiction, a pentagram diamond that seems to carry religious symbolism, and hidden corruption within the police force—only by watching can you uncover the answers.

[US Series] Outlander Season 8 / Final Season

Keywords: Drama / Romance / History
Also known as: Outlander Season 8
Runtime: ~60 minutes per episode × 10 episodes; Douban link

“What does the end of fate truly look like?”

@潘誉晗: Continuing from Season 7, the story arrives in 1779. Upon learning that their stillborn daughter Faith may actually be alive, Claire and Jamie experience both joy and sorrow. They are relieved that their daughter did not die—but heartbroken that they were absent from her upbringing. When they discover from a criminal that Faith was thrown into the sea to silence her, an enraged Claire kills him on the spot. Fortunately, Faith’s daughter Fanny is still alive, and soon Claire and Jamie return to Fraser’s Ridge with her.

This long-running Outlander from Starz has finally reached its final season. The show continues to perform strongly, with its premiere episode breaking recent viewership records for the platform. Over its 12-year run, the passion of its fans has never faded—for good reason. While it belongs to the time-travel genre, the series closely follows historical events, telling the story of an era through its protagonists. More importantly, at its core lies a love story spanning two centuries—from fiery passion to enduring companionship. The deep bond between Claire and Jamie is as moving as the epic narrative itself.

[Animation] The Ramparts of Ice

Keywords: Manga adaptation / School / Romance / Comedy
Also known as: 氷の城壁 / The Ramparts of Ice
Runtime: 24 minutes per episode × total episodes unknown, updated every Thursday
Where to watch: Netflix; Douban link

“Why is it acceptable to make fun of others, as long as there’s no ill intent?”

@SHY: High schooler Koyuki Hikawa, who gives off an unapproachable aura, has built high walls around her heart, only letting her childhood friend Miki Azuma in. By chance, her world is disrupted by the carefree classmate Minato Amamiya, and she is soon introduced to his friend Yota Hino. From that moment, the lives of the four begin to change.

Also created by manga artist Agasawa Koucha, this work follows directly after last season’s You and I Are Polar Opposites, but with a completely different tone. Compared to the straightforward and refreshing romance of the previous work, this story presents more emotionally dense relationships. The opening inner monologue establishes a more subdued and introspective atmosphere, while the dynamics between characters carry greater tension. What remains unchanged is the strong sense of youth woven throughout, capturing the delicate emotions of adolescence and gradually unraveling long-held emotional barriers to embrace honest self-expression.

Although the two manga differ in focus, their anime adaptations share a similar approach, and both maintain a solid level of quality. Produced by Studio KAI, the series balances everyday animation with frequent use of chibi-style sequences—playful “mental skits” that add humor. Its appealing character designs and brisk narrative pacing further enhance the viewing experience. If you’ve been missing the charm of Suzuki and Tani, this youthful ensemble story—filled with both frustration and warmth—will likely resonate with you.

[Animation] Go For It, Nakamura!!

Keywords: Manga adaptation / School / Romance / Comedy
Also known as: ガンバレ！中村くん！！ / Go For It, Nakamura!
Runtime: 24 minutes per episode × 13 episodes, updated every Wednesday
Where to watch: Bahamut Anime Crazy; Douban link

“That unprecedented impact made me fall in love instantly.”

@SHY: Nakamura Okuto, a socially awkward first-year high school student, falls in love at first sight with Hirose Aiki, whom he meets during the entrance ceremony. Although they are in the same class, Nakamura’s attempts to talk to Hirose always end in failure—they’re not even friends. Every time he sees Hirose, Nakamura’s heart races uncontrollably. How will this one-sided love story unfold?

As a BL manga from the new century, the work somehow carries a distinctly retro vibe—not only in its character design and art style, but also in its humor, which pays homage to the 1980s. Nakamura, lost in unrequited love, lets his runaway imagination spiral into chaotic daily life. The tone feels somewhat like Ranma ½—but “twice the gay.” While lacking the courage to confess his feelings, Nakamura has no confusion about his sexuality—he’s simply an ordinary high school boy who likes boys. This straightforward setup, without ambiguity, perhaps reflects a kind of freedom unique to modern creators.

The anime adaptation fully captures the essence of the original, recreating a retro animation feel with bold linework and subtle grain. Each episode features a different ending song, selected from classic Showa-era hits. First-time director Umeki Aoi brings strong creative passion, with inventive direction that enhances the material, while lively visual gags add an extra layer of charm. It stands as a rare high-quality production within BL anime. This pure and innocent crush makes you want to cheer for him—Go for it, Nakamura! Don’t give up, Nakamura!

[Documentary] Cheater, Doctor & Rocker (Angkor Wat)

Keywords: Documentary
Also known as: Cheater, Doctor & Rocker / Human Comedy: Cambodia Chapter
Runtime: ~174 minutes
Where to watch: Bilibili (Shipindao paid program); Douban link

“So, what’s the most profitable job in Cambodia today?”

@潘誉晗: Ten years ago, Cambodia was a dream destination for many Chinese literary-minded travelers, a place where people longed to experience a lost civilization firsthand. But today, when we hear the name Cambodia, many immediately think of scam compounds and online fraud. In just about a decade—a relatively short time—what exactly has happened to transform the country into what it is now?

This time, the Shipindao team traveled to Cambodia, bravely entering scam compounds to see how so-called “online e-commerce” operates among fraudsters—only to be immediately asked to pay 2 million just for filming. They also visited Takeo Province in southern Cambodia, known as the “cradle of Khmer civilization.” Despite its rich agricultural resources, the reality is stark—you’ll see emaciated cattle everywhere.

Spanning over three hours, the documentary is densely packed with content. It begins with the hardworking laborers who built Angkor Wat, then moves into the world of scam operations, and finally reflects on the Khmer Rouge era—a nightmare for the Cambodian people. What unfolds is a portrait of a nation whose civilization was devastated under oppression, leaving behind a deep sense of loss.

[Documentary] The Second Heartbeat

Keywords: Medical / Society
Runtime: ~60 minutes per episode (total episodes unknown)
Where to watch: Bilibili; Douban link

“Every second counts—life hangs by a thread.”

@利兹与青鸟: This Bilibili-produced medical documentary focuses on the cardiac surgery team at Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, following heart transplant cases and the stories behind them. Patients range from children under 10 to middle-aged and elderly individuals, each with different medical conditions and family situations, yet all striving for a chance at survival.

Doctors prioritize patients based on the severity of heart failure. When a donor heart becomes available, they have only one hour to make a decision—yet countless factors must be considered. Even after committing to surgery, coordination across departments is complex, with many uncertainties along the way. The condition of both donor and recipient can change at any moment, making every second critical. Unexpected challenges, such as mismatched donors and recipients, must be faced head-on. These realities are presented with striking honesty, pulling viewers into the tension of this life-and-death relay.

The documentary lays out the entire process—from diagnosis and surgery to recovery, follow-ups, and even medical insurance reimbursement—in a clear narrative structure. The first two released episodes cover three patients, whose journeys—whether smooth or difficult—not only educate viewers about heart transplantation but also offer a visceral sense of its challenges, inspiring deep respect for modern medicine and the dedication of healthcare professionals.

[Japanese Series] Kujō’s Great Crimes
@SHY: Lawyer Kujō Kanato specializes in defending “villains”—from drunk driving hit-and-runs to coercion into drug trafficking, he takes on any case, helping a host of scoundrels escape prison. Viewed by public opinion as a lackey of organized crime, what principles does he truly stand by? Following the loan shark-themed Ushijima the Loan Shark, manga artist Masaharu Manabe once again targets society’s darker corners, creating a morally ambiguous protagonist who walks the edge. Guided by law rather than morality, Kujō may be difficult for most people to accept, yet he remains an indispensable part of the system. Award-winning actor Yūya Yagira delivers a powerful performance, supported by sharp and engaging dialogue.

[Japanese Series] Yamada & Todoroki Law Office
@Sholmes: This spin-off of Like a Tiger with Wings tells the story of post-war Japan, where Yamada witnesses the law becoming powerless in a city ruled by chaos. After her sister Natsu is strangled to death by an unknown killer, Yamada falls into despair. Later, she meets Todoroki Taichi, and together they establish a law firm, standing up for those with nowhere else to turn and confronting cases buried in darkness. The series explores the origins of the law office, serving as a strong complement to the original work.

[Japanese Series] Guilty, as Declared by AI
@利兹与青鸟: Delegating time-consuming tasks like writing judgments to AI can reduce workload and improve efficiency, but Judge Takatoji Madoka remains skeptical of AI verdicts. Her doubts deepen when an 18-year-old patricide case is simulated by AI and results in a death sentence. With a notoriously abusive father and a remorseless son, who is truly at fault? As jurors, prosecutors, and judges clash in their perspectives, should AI be allowed to make the final call? And can AI truly remain unbiased, or does it carry a tendency to cater to human expectations? The series explores the tension between legal rigor, human morality, and AI assistance—while its plot may not be unpredictable, it remains thought-provoking.

[Australia] Heartbreak High Season 3 / Final Season
@潘誉晗: Another graduation season arrives, and the students of Hartley High are preparing to leave school behind and step into adulthood. But an unexpected incident disrupts their lives. The Australian teen drama Heartbreak High reaches its final season. While it still features some dramatic plot elements, the story remains grounded in the realities of modern teenage life and psychology. Its vibrant, high-saturation visuals give the series a bright and energetic atmosphere.

[Film] Love Live! Nijigasaki High School Idol Club Final Chapter Part 2
@SHY: The School Idol GPX Grand Prix continues. After Ayumu and others’ performances in Okinawa, the focus shifts to Setsuna, Rina, Mia, and four others heading to Kansai. With the departure of the previous visual director krrr, this chapter returns to the familiar TV anime style, and of course, delivers plenty of live performances. Director Kawamura Tomoyuki and writer Tanaka Jin continue to explore the relationships between characters, using their deep bonds to face challenges and compose a moving story. The final stage in the next chapter will surely bring a satisfying conclusion to years of companionship.

[Documentary] Formula 1: Drive to Survive Season 8
@潘誉晗: The eighth season of Formula 1: Drive to Survive takes the 2025 Formula 1 season as its backdrop. That season was just as thrilling off the track as on it—for example, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner announced his departure. Meanwhile, McLaren teammates Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri—the “Papaya duo”—competed fiercely for the same championship goal. Once again, Netflix captures not only the intensity of racing but also the relentless spirit of the drivers.

[Documentary] Bathhouse Stories
@潘誉晗: Visiting a bathhouse is not just about getting clean—scrubbing, shaving, showering… there’s a whole culture and many rituals behind it. This documentary, the first of its kind in China focusing on Northeastern bathhouse culture, takes viewers into bathhouses across the country, each with its own style. Through these spaces, we learn what bathhouse culture truly means, along with the warm human stories tied to it. Narrated by Qiao Shan, whose grounded voice adds charm, this is an engaging and delightful documentary.

📅 Trailers of the Week

Supergirl – Official Trailer

On April 1, DC released the official trailer for Supergirl, set to premiere in North America on June 26. Directed by Craig Gillespie, the film stars Milly Alcock as Supergirl and Jason Momoa as Lobo, alongside Eve Ridley, Matthias Schoenaerts, Emily Beecham, and Will Coban. The film is adapted from the comic Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow. Source

Masters of the Universe: Rise of He-Man – Official Trailer

On March 31, the official trailer for Masters of the Universe: Rise of He-Man was released, with a North American premiere set for June 5. Directed by Travis Knight and starring Nicholas Galitzine, the story follows a prince from a forgotten otherworld who awakens at the call of a mysterious sword. To save both his former homeland and the present world, he must become the legendary hero—He-Man. Source

The Backrooms – Official Trailer

On April 1, A24 released the official trailer for The Backrooms, which will premiere in North America on May 29. Directed by Kane Parsons, the creator of the original short film series, the movie stars Chiwetel Ejiofor, Renate Reinsve, and Finn Bennett. The story follows a therapist who must enter an endless labyrinth filled with yellow wallpaper and the hum of fluorescent lights in order to retrieve a patient. Source

Euphoria Season 3 – New Trailer

On January 14, HBO’s hit series Euphoria released a new trailer for its third season, which will begin airing on April 12. Returning cast members include Zendaya, Hunter Schafer, Eric Dane, Jacob Elordi, Sydney Sweeney, Colman Domingo, Rosalía, Alexa Demie, and Maude Apatow. As high school comes to an end, the characters begin to head toward different paths in life. Source

More

Avatar: The Last Airbender (Live-Action) Season 2 Release Date Announced

The live-action series Avatar: The Last Airbender has officially set Season 2 to premiere on June 25. Directors from the original animated series are involved as writers and executive producers, and the show has already been renewed for a third season. Following their bittersweet victory in saving the Northern Water Tribe from the invading Fire Nation, Avatar Aang, Katara, and Sokka regroup and set out on a new mission.

The Mummy – New Trailer Released

A new trailer has been released for the upcoming reboot of The Mummy, directed and produced by Lee Cronin (Evil Dead Rise). The film stars Jack Reynor, Laia Costa, May Calamawy, and Veronica Falcón. It is co-produced by New Line Cinema, Blumhouse Productions (founded by Jason Blum), and Atomic Monster (founded by James Wan).

📽 Film & TV News Weekly

AnimeJapan 2026 Animation Highlights
At AnimeJapan 2026, held from March 28 to 29, a wide range of exhibitors announced numerous updates. Here are some highlights worth noting: @Shy

TV Anime Ghost in the Shell: THE GHOST IN THE SHELL – New Trailer: The series will mark the first faithful adaptation of Masamune Shirow’s original manga. Directed by Shoma Kimura, written by Toh EnJoe, and produced by Science SARU, it is set to premiere in July; Source

TV Anime 20th Century Electric Catalog – New Trailer: Adapted from Hiroshi Yuki’s novel, directed by Minoru Ota, with series composition by Tatsuhiko Urahata, and produced by Kyoto Animation. Starring Yuma Uchida and Sora Amamiya, it will begin airing on July 5; Source

Animated Film Expelled from Paradise: Resonance of the Heart – New Trailer: Produced by the original creative team behind Expelled from Paradise, directed by Seiji Mizushima, written by Gen Urobuchi, with character designs by Masatsugu Saito, and produced by Toei Animation. Scheduled for release in Japan on November 13; Source

Anime Steel Ball Run: JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure 2nd STAGE – Teaser Trailer: Adapted from Hirohiko Araki’s manga, directed by Yasuhiro Kimura and Hideya Takahashi, produced by david production, and set to release on Netflix in 2026; Source

Anime One Piece: Heroines’ Stories – Special Teaser: Adapted from a spin-off novel, directed by Yu Kamitani, written by Momoka Toyoda, and produced by Toei Animation. The story focuses on Nami and other female characters in narratives not covered in the main series, including appearances on fashion show stages. Set to air on July 5; Source

TV Anime Blue Box Season 2 – First Teaser: Adapted from Kouji Miura’s manga, directed by Daisuke Sakou, written by Yuko Kakihara, and produced by Electric Circus. Scheduled to premiere on October 4; Source

TV Anime Two People Smoking Behind the Supermarket – Official Trailer: Adapted from Jinushi’s manga, directed by Rihito Suzuki and Aoi Mori, produced by Asahi Production, and starring Takuya Sato and Seina Hoshiki. Set to air in July; Source

Anime Series Dandelion – Official Trailer: Adapted from the debut work of Hideaki Sorachi (creator of Gintama), directed by Daisuke Mata, with series composition by Yosuke Suzuki, and produced by NAZ. The series consists of 7 episodes and will premiere on April 16 on Netflix; Source

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Confirmed for Season 3
On March 27, the TV anime Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End aired the final episode of its second season and officially announced a third season, titled the “Golden Land Arc,” along with a teaser visual. The new season is scheduled to premiere in October 2027. The series is adapted from the manga by Kanehito Yamada (story) and Tsukasa Abe (art). Season 2 was directed by Tomoya Kitagawa and produced by Madhouse. Source

Cold War 1994 Set for May 1 Release
On March 31, the film Cold War 1994 announced its release date of May 1 and unveiled a trailer and poster. Directed by Leung Lok-man, the film stars Daniel Wu, Terrance Lau, Wu Kang-ren, and Tse Kwan-ho, with special appearances by Chow Yun-fat, Aaron Kwok, Tony Leung Ka-fai, and Louis Koo. Set in 1994, on the eve of Hong Kong’s handover, British authorities, the police force, wealthy elites, and the underworld each pursue their own agendas, resorting to any means necessary to seize power. Source

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