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Category: MOVIE

  • Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    ☕️ TL;DR

    Recent recommendations: [TV Series] Spider-Noir, [Animation] Rick and Morty Season 9, [TV Series] Dutton Ranch, [TV Series] Widow’s Bay, [TV Series] The Curious Retirement of the Townsfolk Season 1, 🔦 [Film] Everything’s Fine, [Japanese Drama] Is It Sushi Time Already!?, [Animation] Patlabor EZY Episode 1

    A few notable trailers: Toy Story 5 Final Trailer, Rise of Vought First Trailer, New Trailer for The Witch Beneath the Dome, Ribbon Hero First Trailer

    A few industry updates: Revealed Day set for mainland China release on June 12, Fire in the Eyes set for mainland China release on June 11, Johnny Keep Walking! 2 scheduled for August 7, Memento unveils a China-exclusive poster

    Based on reader feedback, if a recommendation contains spoilers (revealing key story elements, hidden plotlines, foreshadowing, endings, or other major details), we will add a 🔦 emoji before the title of the corresponding work.

    For previous recommendations, click here or browse the tag #WhatToWatch at the end of the article. For more themed watchlists, click here. If you’d like to explore more in-depth film and television content, be sure to follow our companion column, “What to Watch Café.” As always, we welcome your suggestions in the comments section. Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm for the “What to Watch” series.

    [TV Series] Spider-Noir

    • Keywords: Action / Mystery / Crime
    • Also Known As: Spider-Noir
    • Runtime: Approximately 46 minutes per episode × 8 episodes
    • Where to Watch: Prime Video; Douban Link

    If you still can’t find the answer, it’s because there is no answer.

    @SHY: They say, “With great power comes great responsibility,” but private investigator Ben Reilly, who once used his powers to fight crime, failed to save the woman he loved. Ever since, he has drifted into self-destruction—until what appears to be an ordinary case pulls him into a dangerous vortex. To save the people he cares about, Reilly must confront the past he once abandoned and become Spider-Noir once again.

    Anyone who watched Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse probably remembers the black-and-white Spider-Man who seemed completely out of place. Nicolas Cage, who voiced the character, finally gets his wish to lead a live-action adaptation, and his masterful performance has lost none of its former brilliance. The character’s built-in sense of world-weary melancholy feels almost too authentic. Unlike the friendly neighborhood heroes of other universes, this Spider-Man is a sharp and capable detective with an icy demeanor. He would rather climb stairs himself than swing across rooftops, and the show delivers plenty of unexpected dark humor along the way.

    As a tribute to both the animated version and classic cinema, the series offers two viewing experiences: “Authentic Black-and-White” and “Original Full Color.” Both versions use carefully applied film grain and tasteful color grading to create a vintage atmosphere. The meticulously crafted sets also embrace the era’s aesthetics, making it feel as though viewers have stepped back into New York City in 1933. Visually, the series is captivating. While the script occasionally leans on familiar tropes, this delightfully unconventional standalone production skillfully blends hard-boiled detective fiction with superhero storytelling, resulting in a flavor best experienced firsthand.

    [Animation] Rick and Morty Season 9

    • Keywords: Comedy / Animation
    • Also Known As: Rick and Morty Season 9
    • Runtime: Approximately 20 minutes per episode × 8 episodes; Douban Link

    The internet’s craziest grandpa and the world’s unluckiest grandson.

    @潘誉晗: One day, Morty decides to chat with his grandpa Rick, only to discover Rick happily texting someone on his phone. Curious about who’s on the other end, Morty tries to find out, but Rick immediately hides the device when he enters the room. Fortunately, Morty has gotten smarter. He deliberately changes the subject while sneaking a glance at the screen, but Rick instantly reaches out to stop him. After a brief struggle, Morty finally sees the name on the display—Evil Morty.

    Rick and Morty Season 9 returns with a bang. Not only does fan-favorite character Evil Morty make his comeback in the very first episode, but the season also opens with a series of large-scale action sequences. The momentum is incredibly strong right from the start, showcasing production values of the highest caliber and pleasantly surprising many longtime fans. This has always been one of the series’ greatest strengths: using high-concept science-fiction storytelling and absurd comedic setups to explore deeper themes. This time, Evil Morty’s reappearance sparks a subtle sense of jealousy in Morty over the close relationship between Evil Morty and Rick. That complex, awkward, and all-too-human dynamic resonates with many viewers, reflecting the tangled relationships we often encounter in real life.

    [TV Series] Dutton Ranch

    • Keywords: Drama / Western
    • Also Known As: Dutton Ranch
    • Runtime: Approximately 60 minutes per episode × 9 episodes; Douban Link

    The eldest daughter and her husband are back.

    @潘誉晗: Beth and Rip’s peaceful life at Dillon Ranch turns out to be far too short-lived. A devastating fire destroys everything they have. Six months later, they relocate to Texas and purchase the historic Edwards Ranch, a property with a long-standing reputation throughout the region. What they do not know is that Beulah, the formidable owner of the nearby Ten Petals Ranch, also has her sights set on acquiring Edwards Ranch. Beth and Rip’s arrival is bound to threaten her business empire, and the strong-willed Beulah is equally determined to stand in the way of their fresh start.

    As a spin-off within the “Yellowstone Universe,” Dutton Ranch takes place after the events of the original series. By using a natural disaster as the catalyst, the show provides a believable and organic reason for Beth and Rip’s new beginning. Members of the Dutton family are destined to be tied to the land, and they are seemingly incapable of living a truly peaceful life. Even deep in Texas, that Montana-born instinct to protect their home remains etched into their bones. The series is packed with the authentic Yellowstone spirit, inviting viewers to saddle up and ride into adventure alongside Beth and Rip once more.

    [TV Series] Widow’s Bay

    • Keywords: Drama / Comedy / Horror
    • Also Known As: Widow’s Bay
    • Runtime: 35–40 minutes per episode × 10 episodes; Douban Link

    The fog over the sea swallows everything.

    @潘誉晗: Widow’s Bay is a remote island shrouded in mist year-round. There is no internet, and old legends of maritime disasters continue to circulate among its residents. But Mayor Tom refuses to believe in such superstitions. Determined to revive the island’s struggling economy, he invites a journalist to visit. Thoroughly impressed, the reporter writes a glowing feature about the island, successfully attracting a wave of tourists. Yet something seems to emerge from the thick fog. A bell bound in chains begins to ring. Tom is scratched and pursued by a mysterious old man. The tranquility of Widow’s Bay is shattered beyond repair.

    This horror-comedy from Apple TV+ has turned out to be far better than expected, earning a string of positive reviews on sites such as Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic. While the isolated-island mystery setup is hardly new, the series’ greatest achievement lies in its perfect balance between suspense, horror, and comedy. Just as the atmosphere begins to draw viewers into a state of mounting tension, the cast’s deadpan humor pulls them right back to reality. At the same time, the show cleverly pays homage to numerous classic horror films, delivering the delightful feeling of discovering hidden Easter eggs.

    [TV Series] The Boroughs Season 1

    • Keywords: Science Fiction / Mystery
    • Also Known As: The Boroughs Season 1
    • Runtime: Approximately 51 minutes per episode × 8 episodes
    • Where to Watch: Netflix; Douban Link

    Welcome to Retirement Town.

    @潘誉晗: In New Mexico, there is a retirement community known simply as “Retirement Town,” and Sam has recently moved in. It was originally chosen by his wife as the place where they would spend their later years together, but her sudden passing leaves him to arrive alone. Still grieving, Sam keeps everyone at arm’s length. His neighbor Jack, however, is unfazed by the cold reception and even throws a barbecue party in Sam’s honor. That very night, Sam witnesses Jack’s death—and sees a massive ten-legged creature resembling a spider crawling over his body. As Sam and several other residents begin investigating, they gradually realize that the string of elderly deaths within the community were anything but natural.

    Created by the Duffer Brothers, The Boroughs has often been described as a senior-citizen version of Stranger Things. Its protagonists are a group of retirees in the latter stage of life, and these seasoned veterans bring a unique energy that sets the show apart from youth-centered adventures. Once they see through the lies and realize that this supposed retirement haven may actually be a community built around death, the retired engineers, journalists, doctors, and other residents spring into action. Through its older cast, the series also delivers thoughtful reflections on aging, mortality, and what it means to face the final chapters of life.

    🔦 [Film] All Greens

    • Keywords: Drama
    • Also Known As: All Greens (オール・グリーンズ)
    • Runtime: 119 minutes; Douban Link

    Enjoy your youth in a town with no hope.

    @利兹与青鸟: Park Sumi is a second-year student at a vocational high school in a small Japanese town. To escape her hot-tempered and abusive father, she spends her nights carrying her skateboard to freestyle rap sessions, using rhythm and rhyme to vent her anger and frustration. When confronted with violence from an industry senior, she not only fights back with courage and quick thinking, but also walks away with cannabis seeds from the offender’s safe.

    After her father’s suicide and her mother’s mental breakdown, Yaguchi Miruku has spent her days hiding behind a mask, playing the role of the perfect daughter and popular class president. But after a workplace accident costs her a little finger, she finally decides to be herself. Meanwhile, Iwakuma Mako loves manga, but her parents only care about seeing her settle down and get married, paying little attention to her dreams. Bringing together equal parts despair and determination, the three girls form a gardening club with the shared goal of escaping their town. Recruiting a member from the chemistry club, they hatch an ambitious plan: grow their own cannabis and make a fortune.

    The film uses its cinematography to emphasize an artistic style, and cinephiles may catch glimpses of French New Wave influences throughout. However, the pacing occasionally feels slow and understated, with the highly anticipated central event—growing cannabis on the rooftop—not arriving until the latter half of the film. Although danger constantly lingers around the protagonists, it never quite reaches the level of true suspense. Thankfully, the film’s climactic burst of destructive celebration and its playful twist during the end credits add a spark of vitality, leaving audiences smiling at this youthful story that is both grounded in reality and touched by a hint of absurdity.

    [Japanese Drama] Is It Sushi Time Already!?

    • Keywords: Drama / Comedy / Romance
    • Also Known As: Toki Sude ni Osushi!? (時すでにおスシ!?)
    • Runtime: Approximately 45 minutes per episode × 10 episodes; Douban Link

    Can you start over at fifty?

    @潘誉晗: Minato Machiyama is a fifty-year-old woman. After her husband’s death, she raised her son on her own through years of hardship and sacrifice. Yet when her son finally lands his dream job and moves out, she suddenly finds herself without a sense of purpose. She tries ordering takeout and booking beauty treatments, only to give up halfway each time. Encouraged by a close friend from high school, she enrolls in a three-month intensive sushi-making course at a sushi academy. Minato decides to use this opportunity as the first step toward living for herself.

    This series, centered on a middle-aged woman beginning a new chapter in life at fifty, carries a gentle sense of healing. Through the character of Minato, it directly addresses a challenge faced by many middle-aged women in modern urban society after raising children: the “empty nest syndrome.” It is an issue that deserves far more attention. Countless mothers spend decades dedicating themselves to their children, only to find themselves uncertain about what comes next once those children enter adulthood and leave home. Minato’s chaotic second act begins in a whirlwind of uncertainty, but fortunately she is able to rediscover her direction in life. After all, she is only fifty.

    [Animation] Patlabor EZY File 1

    • Keywords: Science Fiction / Action / Slice of Life
    • Also Known As: Mobile Police Patlabor EZY File 1 (機動警察パトレイバー EZY File 1)
    • Runtime: 25 + 21 + 26 = 72 minutes; Douban Link

    For us, the best-case scenario is that nothing happens at all.

    @SHY: The multipurpose humanoid construction machines known as Labors, introduced in the 1990s, greatly improved social productivity while simultaneously giving rise to new forms of crime. To counter these threats, the Metropolitan Police Department established the Special Vehicles Section 2. Now, in the 2030s, Labor technology has gradually become outdated, but the mission of SV2 remains unchanged. They continue to fight every day to protect the public.

    As one of the defining works of the “real robot” genre, Patlabor has always grounded its worldbuilding in practicality and plausibility. The timeline of the series has long stayed close to real-world history, looking ahead toward the near future that is steadily approaching. EZY takes place against a backdrop shaped by pandemics, artificial intelligence, and an aging population, while its mechanical designs draw inspiration from technological developments of recent years, creating the feeling that science fiction is gradually becoming reality. Decades later, the Section 2 headquarters has transformed from a suburban outpost into a bustling urban location, yet its equipment is still based on upgraded versions of the classic Type 98 machines. Naturally, the beloved veteran characters continue to play an important role as well.

    Among the original HEADGEAR creative team, original creator Masami Yuki, mechanical designer Yutaka Izubuchi, character designer Akemi Takada, and screenwriter Kazunori Ito all return. The only notable absence is director Mamoru Oshii, who has been left out of the reunion. The story is also unrelated to Oshii’s theatrical films or live-action adaptations, instead continuing the timeline established by the TV series and the New OVA. As a result, the overall tone returns to the franchise’s roots, focusing on workplace ensemble storytelling and everyday comedy. The straightforward comedic jabs in Episode 3 are sure to bring a smile to longtime fans. As a sequel arriving nearly forty years after the original, it stands as a remarkably successful and heartfelt renaissance for the franchise.

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    [Korean Drama] My Royal Archenemy @潘誉晗：After Lady Jang Dan-sim, remembered in the Joseon Dynasty as a notorious femme fatale, is sentenced to death by poisoned wine, her soul travels to the modern era and inhabits the body of Shin Se-ri, a young, unknown actress. After unexpectedly crossing paths with Cha Se-gye, the third-generation heir of a chaebol family, the two embark on a romantic love story. While the time-travel romance premise is not particularly groundbreaking, the drama’s greatest strength lies in Dan-sim’s appreciation for the second chance life has given her. Though saddened by the way history has painted her as a villain, she understands that being alive matters more than anything else.

    [Korean Drama] Rookie Mess Hall Soldier @潘誉晗：After receiving his enlistment notice, Kang Seong-jae reports for military service. Already terrified of life as a recruit, he unexpectedly awakens a mysterious ability: he can see game-like recipe guides floating before him. As long as he clicks “Accept,” he receives a perfect recipe, allowing him to cook delicious meals with ease. Adapted from the manga of the same name, this fantasy comedy is outrageously funny, and its imaginative food-related sequences are especially entertaining.

    [Japanese Drama] TXQ FICTION: Ryunosuke Kamiki @潘誉晗：The fifth installment in the TXQ FICTION series invites beloved actor Ryunosuke Kamiki to participate in a standalone story that follows an investigation into the disappearance of former child star Teruhisa. Continuing the franchise’s mockumentary format, the drama cleverly incorporates Kamiki’s own real-life background as a child actor. His actual experiences and career history mirror and contrast with Teruhisa’s fictional profile, making viewers increasingly curious about where reality ends and fiction begins.

    [Film] Summer Restlessness @利兹与青鸟：Shai feels suffocated by her brother’s overbearing control, while Geneva struggles to care for her younger sibling after her mother abandons the family. Hoping to earn some money and escape their difficult home lives, the two best friends apply for counselor positions at a summer camp, supervising children on mountain camping trips. Along the way, they find inspiration in the children’s behavior—sometimes innocent and compassionate, sometimes mischievous and completely out of control. Through the voices of its young characters, the film explores social issues such as gender, race, class, and family, wrapping heavy realities in warmth, laughter, and youthful innocence.

    [Film] The Last KPI @利兹与青鸟：Fleur is an HR professional whose anxiety leaves her battling insomnia night after night. Exhaustion and numbness are etched across her face. The harsh job market has made her both overly demanding toward candidates and deeply worried about losing her own position. She is so uncertain about the future that she cannot even imagine bringing a child into the world. And so she drifts through a life seemingly devoid of light, pushed forward only by the passage of time. Though some joke that “watching it feels like working two extra hours of overtime,” the film offers an uncomfortably realistic portrait of the struggles faced by ordinary workers today. Its cinematography and performances are outstanding, and countless small details strike with painful accuracy.

    [Animation] Mating Season @SHY：Winter has passed, and mating season has arrived once again. Josh the bear wakes up from hibernation only to discover that his girlfriend Olivia has already moved on. Fawn the deer, burdened by a troubled childhood, seeks comfort from an older stag. Meanwhile, Ray the raccoon, who never does anything halfway, finds himself inseparably attached to a skunk. Created by several of the minds behind Human Resources and Big Mouth, this wildly explicit and unapologetically chaotic adult animated series fearlessly explores the tangled relationships of a forest full of restless animals. Beneath the shameless jokes and outrageous humor, it also manages to offer a surprising amount of genuine wisdom about life.

    [Animation] Small Money, Big Problems @SHY：Encouraged by his friend Wild Boar, Zerocalcare decides to co-open a café. Unfortunately, the debt-ridden boar keeps robbing Peter to pay Paul until he lands himself in serious trouble. Zerocalcare and his band of eccentric friends are forced to devise a rescue plan, all while dealing with the endless frustrations of everyday life. Following the success of Tear Along the Dotted Line and This World Can’t Tear Me Down, Italian cartoonist Zerocalcare returns with another dialogue-heavy animated series. Packed with razor-sharp observations and inventive metaphors born from broad life experience, it cuts straight to the anxieties and worries of modern living. Melancholic yet comforting, it once again proves his unique talent for turning frustration into healing.

    📅 This Week’s New Trailers

    Toy Story 5 Final Trailer

    On May 26, Pixar released the final trailer for Toy Story 5, which is set to open in mainland China on June 19. Directed by Andrew Stanton and McKenna Harris, the film sees Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, and other familiar friends return as all-powerful technology begins to “invade” childhood, setting the stage for a clash between a changing era and the timeless value of companionship. Source

    Vought Rising First Trailer

    On May 22, Vought Rising, the prequel series to The Boys, unveiled its first trailer and is scheduled to premiere on Prime Video in 2027. Jensen Ackles returns as Soldier Boy, while Aya Cash reprises her role as Stormfront. Set during the Cold War era of the 1950s, the series explores the early rise of Vought and the politically incorrect age of the first generation of superheroes. Source

    New Trailer for The Witch Beneath the Dome

    On May 27, the TV anime The Witch Beneath the Dome released a new trailer and confirmed a July 4 premiere, with the first two episodes airing back-to-back during launch week. Adapted from the manga of the same name, the series features Naoko Yamada as chief director, Abel Gongora as director, and animation production by Science SARU. Set in the Mongol Empire of the 13th century, it follows Sitara, a slave girl who has lost everything and sets a storm in motion. Source

    THE RIBBON HERO First Trailer

    On May 26, the animated feature film THE RIBBON HERO released its first trailer and was announced for a Netflix debut on August 8. Directed by Yuki Igarashi, with character concept designs by Kei Mochizuki, additional character concept support from Mai Yoneyama, character designs by Kazuto Araki, art direction by Cédric Hérole, and animation production by OUTLINE, the film is adapted from Osamu Tezuka’s classic manga Princess Knight. Source

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    TV Anime The Historians’ Eye First Trailer: Adapted from the manga of the same name by Hitoshi Iwaaki (Parasyte), produced by LIDENFILMS, and set in ancient Greece during the 4th century BCE. The story chronicles the turbulent life of Eumenes, secretary to Alexander the Great. The manga won the Grand Prize at the 2012 Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize and the anime is scheduled to premiere in January 2027. Source

    TV Anime You and I Are Polar Opposites Season 2 New Trailer: Adapted from the manga by Kocha Agasawa, the second season reunites director Takakazu Nagatomo, series composer Teruko Utsumi, and animation studio Lapin Track. The romantic comedy follows the relationship between the completely opposite Suzuki Miyu and Tani Yusuke, alongside their everyday school lives with friends. The new season begins airing on July 5. Source

    Enola Holmes 3 First Trailer: Directed by Philip Barantini and starring Millie Bobby Brown, Henry Cavill, Helena Bonham Carter, Louis Partridge, and others, the film follows Enola Holmes as she arrives in Malta and finds herself entangled in a case more complex and mysterious than any she has faced before. It premieres on Netflix on July 1. Source

    A24 Film Primetime First Trailer: Directed by Lance Oppenheim and starring Robert Pattinson, the film centers on television host Chris and his reality show, which uses decoys posing as minors online to lure child predators into a television studio, where they are confronted and arrested. The film is scheduled for release in North America this fall. Source

    📽 Film & TV News Weekly

    Disclosure Day Set for Mainland China Release on June 12

    On May 28, the film Disclosure Day released its mainland China release trailer and poster, confirming a June 12 debut day-and-date with North America. Directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Emily Blunt, Josh O’Connor, Colin Firth, Eve Hewson, and others, the film follows a high-stakes disclosure operation on the verge of breaking through, bringing the truth about extraterrestrials to the big screen. Source

    Fire in the Eyes Set for Mainland China Release on June 11

    On May 27, the film Fire in the Eyes unveiled its mainland China release trailer and poster, ahead of its June 11 theatrical debut. Directed by Kenji Tanigaki and starring Tse Miu, Lin Kedeng, and Yang Enyou, with Lai Wei and Tsuyoshi Iwanaga in supporting roles and a special appearance by Yayan Ruhian, the story follows a father whose daughter is kidnapped in broad daylight. As he launches a desperate pursuit and fights his way through danger, he encounters others equally willing to risk everything for the people they love. Source

    Johnny Keep Walking! 2 Scheduled for August 7

    On May 28, Johnny Keep Walking! 2 released its release-date trailer and poster, confirming an August 7 premiere. Directed by Dong Runnian and written by Dong Runnian and Ying Luojia, the film stars Zhang Ruoyun and Bai Ke, with Gao Ye in a leading role and special appearances by Da Peng and Zhuang Dafei. The highly anticipated “Liu-Ma duo” officially reunites at a subsidiary of Zhonghe Group, setting a brand-new chapter of the story in motion. Source

    Memento Unveils China-Exclusive Poster

    On May 27, Memento released an exclusive poster for the Chinese market ahead of its May 29 theatrical release. Directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Guy Pearce, Carrie-Anne Moss, Joe Pantoliano, Mark Boone Junior, and Russ Fega, the film follows Leonard Shelby, who develops a rare form of short-term memory loss after being attacked in his home. Determined to uncover the truth, he embarks on a difficult and fragmented investigation.

  • Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    ☕️ TL;DR

    Recent recommended titles: [Movie] Sheep Detective Team, [Movie] Goodbye, Julia, [Movie] The Man Living with the King, [J-Drama] Small Business Kin & Gin Season 3, [Anime] Fist of the North Star -FIST OF THE NORTH STAR-, [Documentary] Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy Season 2, [Documentary] Secret Creatures in the Backyard

    Notable trailers: Official trailer for Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Flames of Fate, new trailer for Green Lantern Corps, final trailer for Spider-Man: Beyond the Shadows, first teaser for Grain Rain

    Entertainment news: Secrets of Japan confirmed for release, new poster for Spider-Man: A New Day, release date announced for Clive Boots Continues Adventures

    [Movie] Sheep Detective Team

    • Keywords: Mystery / Comedy
    • Also known as: The Sheep Detectives
    • Duration: 110 minutes, with a tiny post-credits scene
    • Viewing Options: Currently in theaters; Douban link

    The Sheep Squad Saves the Day!

    @SHY: It’s said that among common farm animals, sheep are the dullest. But don’t mention that to the fluffy residents of Dembrooke Town. Having listened to shepherd George read detective novels daily, they’ve honed sharp logical thinking, easily solving small puzzles. Yet when George meets a truly mysterious fate, can these grass-chewing strategists take on real detective duties?

    After years of action-packed roles, Hugh Jackman finally finds a “relaxing” gig, eyes closed and unconcerned as the town descends into chaos. A $30 million inheritance revealed only after death makes everyone a suspect, with cryptic codes in the will sowing paranoia. Seeing the town’s sole police officer outwitted, only the soft, non-human perspective of the sheep sees the truth.

    Director Kyle Balda, known for Minions, brings his animation talent to live-action, delivering a whimsically British-style mystery in the vein of Shaun the Sheep. The sheep crack the case with inventive antics, brazenly entering human society and weaving unpredictable laughs. Amid the lively adventure, heartfelt friendships shine through, making this soft, warm detective comedy a stress-relieving, family-friendly treat.

    [Movie] Goodbye, Julia

    • Keywords: Drama
    • Also known as: Goodbye Julia
    • Duration: Around 115 minutes
    • Viewing Options: Nationwide Art Alliance theaters; Douban link

    Did you stop lying afterwards?

    @潘誉晗: One day, Mona accidentally bumps into a young boy while leaving home. Terrified by the boy’s furious father, she flees by car. The father chases on a motorcycle, ultimately shot by Mona’s husband. With her husband influential and the boy’s father from South Sudan, the incident is quickly settled. Haunted by guilt over indirectly causing an innocent death, Mona seeks out the boy’s mother, Julia, claiming she urgently needs a live-in nanny. Julia moves in with her child, and through daily interactions, Mona and Julia influence each other and form a friendship.

    In 2023, Sudanese film Goodbye Julia was selected for the 76th Cannes Film Festival and won the Un Certain Regard Freedom Award. As Sudan’s first film at Cannes, it uses the small moments between Julia and Mona to explore social issues including race, religion, faith, and ethnic division. A car accident, two women, two social classes, lies and truth, rescue and redemption, freedom and constraint—the film portrays Sudan’s political turmoil with a gentle, truthful touch.

    [Movie] The Man Living with the King

    • Keywords: Drama / History
    • Also known as: 왕과 사는 남자
    • Duration: Around 116 minutes; Douban link

    Your Highness, I’ve come to escort you across the river.

    @潘誉晗: Yeon Heung-do is the village chief of a remote hamlet in Gangwon Province. Isolated and suffering poor harvests, villagers’ lives are harsh; even children have never tasted hot white rice. To improve the village’s fortunes, he decides to follow a neighboring village’s practice of hosting exiled officials. After persistent effort, an exiled official finally arrives—but it isn’t a bearded elder statesman; it’s Lee Hong-wei, the 16-year-old Rusan King, deposed by his uncle as the sixth monarch of the Joseon dynasty.

    Released in early 2026 on South Korean screens, the film broke local audience records. While historical records say little about this period, the creative void allows filmmakers more narrative freedom. Though the historical outcome cannot change, the film gives the politically tragic boy a warm, human experience. Under the villagers’ simple care, the once rigid youth feels warmth beyond the cold grip of royal authority, and the touching friendship between Yeon Heung-do and the young king remains celebrated.

    [J-Drama] Small Business Kin & Gin Season 3

    Keywords: Drama / Period
    Also known as: あきない世傳(せいでん) 金と銀３
    Duration: Around 43 minutes per episode × 8 episodes; Douban link

    Running a business is never this easy.

    @潘誉晗: The timeline of Season 3 quickly reaches Hōreki 4, but the daily life of the Isuzuya shop continues as usual. Under the leadership of the seventh-generation owner, Koyuki, the staff work hard and business flourishes. To boost sales, Koyuki commissions a craftsman to develop an affordable, small-patterned dye accessible to ordinary people, which becomes an instant hit. However, business is never smooth: when Koyuki’s love interest shows affection for her sister, her younger sister Aketsu joins a rival shop, becoming a direct competitor.

    Though not as grand as annual Taiga dramas, this relatively lesser-known domestic period drama has steadily reached its third season. Centered on female growth, the series excels in portraying historical female entrepreneurship without overdramatizing crises. From guild difficulties to rival sabotage, Koyuki approaches problems with patience and inclusivity. The storytelling is gentle yet detailed, depicting Edo-era life while highlighting women’s resilience.

    [Anime] Fist of the North Star -FIST OF THE NORTH STAR-

    • Keywords: Manga Adaptation / Action / Adventure
    • Also known as: 北斗の拳 -FIST OF THE NORTH STAR-
    • Duration: 24 minutes per episode × unknown number of episodes, updated every Friday
    • Viewing Options: Prime Video; Douban link

    You are already dead!

    @SHY: In 199X, the world is consumed by nuclear fire, once-thriving civilizations destroyed, ushering in a lawless era. On this survival-of-the-fittest wasteland, a lone man bears the seven-star scar of Hokuto on his chest. As the heir of the assassination martial art “Hokuto Shinken,” he carves a new path for himself and the oppressed with his indomitable fists.

    Hardcore Japanese manga often brings titles like JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure or Berserk to mind. Their stylistic foundation, however, was laid by Fist of the North Star, first serialized in 1983. Creators Buronson and Tetsuo Hara, inspired by Mad Max 2 and Bruce Lee films, crafted this rugged post-apocalyptic world, blending vivid violence and aesthetic brutality that deeply influenced future works.

    Compared to previous adaptations, the remake trims lengthy original plotlines, adheres more closely to the source material, and incorporates well-known later settings. The ED features a cover of the classic theme, evoking nostalgia. Using 3D compositing for smooth viewing and occasional hand-drawn animation, key scenes are striking. The story delivers adrenaline-filled adventures, balancing life-and-death tension with heroic feats, making this end-of-century savior legend still exhilarating.

    [Documentary] Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy Season 2

    • Keywords: Human Interest
    • Also known as: Tucci In Italy Season 2
    • Duration: Around 44 minutes per episode × 5 episodes; Douban link

    @利兹与青鸟: After a year, the Emmy-nominated Searching for Italy returns for Season 2. Having visited Florence and Milan, seen border mountains and glacier fishing, Stanley Tucci continues to explore other corners of Italy, tasting regionally-inspired cuisine, visiting scenic spots and historical landmarks, and delving into local culture.

    In southern Campania, with Mount Vesuvius, picturesque coastlines, and a history of hardship, Tucci samples baked eggplant lasagna at an 83-year-old Naples eatery, dry pasta cooked with stones in the pasta capital, visits lemon orchards, tomato farms, and buffalo mozzarella factories, and explores unique local wineries.

    Each episode explores a different Italian region, from well-known Campania and Sicily to lesser-known Marche, Sardinia, and Veneto. Each episode is rich with content, featuring five to six culinary tastings, interwoven cultural and historical stories, accessible restaurants, and private tasting events, all accompanied by stunning natural scenery, offering both visual delight and deeper understanding of Italy.

    [Documentary] Secret Creatures in the Backyard

    • Keywords: Documentary
    • Also known as: Secret Garden
    • Duration: Around 60 minutes per episode × 5 episodes; Douban link

    It turns out every backyard hides a little piece of nature.

    @潘誉晗: Henry and Martha live in a century-old mill house, but because the area around their home is full of waterways, rising water or floods can still cause small worries, so they need to monitor the weather regularly. Yet the unpredictability of nature gives the yard a different kind of vitality—these overflowing waters create ideal habitats for creatures like kingfishers.

    Last month, the BBC released a new documentary, once again narrated by Sir David Attenborough. At 100 years old this year, hearing his narration is itself a precious gift. Even more remarkable, this time the documentary does not explore vast, distant worlds but returns to ordinary backyards. With Sir Attenborough’s gentle storytelling, the stunning imagery remains deeply moving. Thanks to ultra-high-definition cameras, we are finally able to realize that even in these overlooked worlds, a small, condensed piece of nature thrives.

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    [K-Drama] Superpowered Extra

    @潘誉晗: Yoon Chae-min, who suddenly died from a terminal illness after contact with nuclear wastewater, miraculously revives and gains teleportation powers. Her two companions also gain abilities—one with super strength, the other able to become a glue-like form. Though seen as a foolish trio by outsiders, their accidental powers turn them into saviors of the world. Set in the 1990s, this post-apocalyptic superhero series blends superpowers, cults, and immortality with a hilarious twist.

    [UK Drama] Flavia

    @潘誉晗: When her father Haviland is arrested as a suspect, 11-year-old Flavia realizes she alone must uncover why a corpse appeared in her home. A chemistry prodigy, she picks up her magnifying glass and applies her knowledge, solving the case as it intertwines with her father’s past. Featuring familiar actors, this teen detective series exudes retro charm, with a lively, dynamic pace.

    [US Drama] The Punisher: Last Strike

    @潘誉晗: Serving as a bridge between the Punisher series and the film Spider-Man: A New Day, The Punisher: Last Strike follows Frank Castle regaining his fighting spirit after a period of decline post-revenge. With a Marvel-style John Wick vibe, this single special introduces new viewers to the character and delivers standout action sequences.

    [Thai Drama] Rural Romance

    @潘誉晗: Displeased that her parents plan to hand the family business to her sister and eager to prove herself, heiress Si leaves her luxurious life to take over a rural rental project. This “wealthy girl goes to the countryside” story begins, leading to a sweet, comedic romance with Klao, a village girl renting her farmland. Amid bright rural scenery, the tsundere heiress and cool, handsome girl navigate a humorous, heartwarming romance.

    [UK Drama] Criminal Records Season 2

    @潘誉晗: Though the coup at Suffolk Square is quelled, a boy’s death leaves Detective Joan wracked with guilt. Behind the political gathering lies a hidden conspiracy, prompting Daniel and Joan to team up with an undercover agent to catch the real culprit. With political rallies, assassination plots, and right-wing threats, the second season intensifies anti-terrorism themes, maintaining a serious and structured pace.

    [Movie] Sunflowers on the Chessboard

    @SHY: In 1994, workers in Saitama discover an allegedly murdered unidentified body in the mountains, alongside seven remaining first-generation Kikusui Moon shogi pieces. The investigation points to the sudden appearance of prodigy shogi player Keisuke Kamijo. This second film adaptation of the namesake mystery novel interweaves meticulous police work with calm shogi matches, gradually revealing Kamijo’s complex background and delivering strong emotional impact.

    [Movie] Three Goodbye

     @利兹与青鸟: Marta and her boyfriend quarrel over a minor issue after years together, leading to a breakup. Struggling with heartbreak, Marta leaves negative reviews for her ex’s restaurant, skips meals, talks to a cardboard figure, and wanders Rome reflecting on the past and future—both immature and slightly romantic. As love and health slip away, she learns to reconnect with life and bid farewell. With a slow pace and understated narrative, the film uses ample empty shots to capture life’s beauty and melancholy, ending tenderly yet wistfully.

    [Movie] Desire of Sangerhausen

     @利兹与青鸟: In the 18th century, maid Lotte finds a blue stone and escapes noble pursuers into a dark cave; in modern times, restaurant worker Ursula, video creator Neda, and a grandfather-grandson duo on a tour meet in the forests of Sangerhausen, Germany. To evade the police, they enter the same cave and encounter Lotte’s ghost. Each character struggles with life’s challenges on society’s margins. Told in four chapters, the film uses elegant, vintage cinematography to depict ordinary people’s fleeting dreams and desires.

    📅 This Week’s New Trailers

    Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Flames of Fate Official Trailer
    On May 19, the TV anime Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Flames of Fate released its official trailer. Episodes 1–3 will premiere in Japanese theaters on June 21, with broadcast starting in July. Tomohisa Taguchi serves as chief director, Mitsuru Murata directs, and PIERROT FILMS produces. As the final season of the series, it will conclude the climactic battle between Ichigo Kurosaki and Yhwach. Source

    Green Lantern Corps New Trailer
    On May 18, DC’s new series Green Lantern Corps released a new teaser trailer, scheduled to premiere on HBO Max on August 16. Aaron Pierre stars as rookie John Stewart, and Kyle Chandler plays legendary Green Lantern Hal Jordan. The two intergalactic law enforcers investigate a murder in a small Midwestern town and become entangled in a dark mystery looming over Earth. Source

    Spider-Man: Beyond the Shadows Final Trailer
    On May 19, the series Spider-Man: Beyond the Shadows released its final trailer, with a premiere on Prime Video on May 27. Nicolas Cage (Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse) returns as the lead, focusing on an aging, extremely unlucky private detective in 1930s New York who, as the city’s only superhero, must confront his past life. Source

    Grain Rain First Teaser
    On May 11, the Chinese suspense-crime series Grain Rain released its first teaser. Directed by Li Lu (In the Name of the People, Ordinary World), starring Jing Boran, Zhang Songwen, Sun Yizhou, Sui Junbo, Li Xiaoran, Zhang Xueying, Wang Ou, and Wang Yiting, the series adapts the novel of the same name, based on a real tax case, focusing on the death of a company accountant in Pengzhou. Source

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    Her Personal Hell First Trailer: Directed by Nicolas Winding Refn (Drive), starring Sophie Thatcher, Christine Froude, Havana Rose Liu, and others. A group of actresses plans to shoot a film while a vile killer hunts women across the city. North American release: July 24. Source

    Hope First Trailer: Directed and written by Roh Hong-jun, starring Hwang Jung-min, Cho In-sung, and Jung Ho-gyun. Set in the 1970s–80s, residents of an isolated village near the DMZ confront mysterious alien beings. Selected for the main competition at the 79th Cannes Film Festival. Source

    Dream Tales First Trailer: Directed and written by Koichi Sakamoto, Kenji Tanigaki, and Yuji Shimomura, starring Yasuo Kurata, with a special appearance by Sammo Hung. Following the protagonist’s visions, the story traverses past, present, and future across countries and generations, telling interconnected destinies. Japan release: July 17. Source

    Cosmic Giants: He-Man Rises Final Trailer: Nicholas Galitzine (Red, White & Royal Blue) stars as Prince He-Man, Jared Leto as villainous Skeletor, with Camila Mendes and Idris Elba among the cast. Directed by Travis Knight (Bumblebee, Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio). Release in China and North America: June 5.

    📽 Weekly Film & TV News

    Secrets of the Sun Confirmed for Mainland China
    On May 22, Secrets of the Sun was confirmed for release in mainland China, along with a trailer and poster. Directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Emily Blunt, Josh O’Connor, Colin Firth, and Eve Hewson, the sci-fi film explores UFOs, aliens, and “the truth.” This summer, it promises to reveal everything to humanity and will premiere in North America on June 12. Source

    Spider-Man: A New Day New Poster
    On May 20, the film Spider-Man: A New Day released a new poster and behind-the-scenes featurette. Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton and starring Tom Holland, Zendaya, and Mark Ruffalo, the movie follows Peter Parker donning the Spider-Man suit and soaring across the city, embarking on a new day as the “Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man.” North American release: July 31. Source

    Cliff Booth Continues Adventures Release Date Announced
    Quentin Tarantino’s sequel to Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Cliff Booth Continues Adventures, is scheduled for November 25 in theaters and December 23 on Netflix. Starring Brad Pitt, directed by David Fincher, written by Quentin Tarantino, and featuring Elizabeth Debicki, Scott Caan, and Carla Gugino, the film follows stuntman Cliff Booth’s new adventures after the events of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Source

  • Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    ☕️ TL;DR

    Recent recommendations worth your time: [Chinese Drama] Low IQ Crimes, [K-Drama] Wish Your Death, [British Drama] Good Omens Season 3, [French Drama] The Heist Queens, [Film] Montreal, My Beauty, [Anime] Dr. Stone: Science Future Part 3, [Documentary] Max Verstappen: A New Journey, [Reality Show] Old Donggi Friends

    A few exciting new trailers: a new trailer for Ghost in the Shell: THE GHOST IN THE SHELL, the first trailer for Silent Judgment, a new trailer for Fire in the Eyes, the release date trailer for Love City Stories, and the official trailer for Ultraman Origins

    A few entertainment industry updates: Normandy: 72 Hours is set for mainland China release on June 6, Masters of the Universe: Rise of He-Man arrives on June 5, Family Murder Service premieres on May 29, Supergirl opens on June 26, and the new Marvel series Vision Quest has officially received a release date.

    [Chinese Drama] Low IQ Crimes

    • Keywords: Comedy / Crime
    • Runtime: Approximately 45 minutes per episode × 24 episodes
    • Where to Watch: iQIYI / Migu Video; Douban link

    When luck suddenly takes over!

    @利兹与青鸟: Zhang Yi’ang, a police officer in Ping’an City, isn’t exactly competent, but he absolutely loves reciting poetry, often at the worst possible moments in ways that become unintentionally hilarious. Even after being reassigned to the retired cadres department, he still manages to create chaos everywhere he goes. By sheer coincidence, he picks up an anonymous举报 letter and is assigned alongside the equally eccentric Li Qian to Sanjiangkou to investigate whether the deputy director of the Public Security Bureau’s death hides deeper secrets. But Zhang Yi’ang’s sudden arrival is far from welcomed, and his work is restricted at every turn. Still, through a chain of absurd accidents, he somehow captures a wanted fugitive and unexpectedly earns everyone’s respect, gradually being elevated into the role of a “master detective.”

    Meanwhile, two dimwitted thieves from Ping’an City come up with the brilliant idea of robbing corrupt officials and also arrive in Sanjiangkou. At the same time, Zhou Rong — the boss of a criminal syndicate operating in the city — is busy planning a new business venture while secretly investigating the death of his childhood friend Ye Jian, the captain of the criminal police squad. Three storylines and two murder cases (possibly more) slowly collide in Sanjiangkou, creating what promises to be a chaotic and explosive mess.

    The series is adapted from the novel of the same name by Zi Jinchen, and right from the beginning it embraces a darkly comedic sense of absurdity. Criminals and police constantly overestimate one another, and although everyone’s IQ seems to drop offline every now and then, that doesn’t stop blind luck from producing bizarre successes. It leaves you curious to see just how many ridiculous coincidences this streak of “good fortune” can continue to create. Comedic actors like Ma Xudong, Yan Peilun, and Zhan Xin also help land the jokes effectively. Although the crime investigation storyline can feel a bit dragged out at times, the show still works well as entertaining comfort viewing.

    [K-Drama] Wish Your Death

    • Keywords: Drama / Horror
    • Also Known As: 기리고 / Wish Your Death / If Wishes Could Kill
    • Runtime: Approximately 44 minutes per episode × 8 episodes
    • Where to Watch: Netflix; Douban link

    How far would you go to make your wishes come true?

    @潘誉晗: The latest math exam results shocked everyone — Choi Hyung-wook somehow scored full marks, despite clearly not being the academic type. When his friends ask how he did it, Hyung-wook smugly shares a link to an app called “Girigo.” According to him, all you need to do is write down your birth information, attach it to your body, record a video, and upload it to the app. Your wish will then come true. Nobody really believes him, and Hyung-wook himself pays little attention to the mysterious countdown timer that suddenly appears on his phone. But 24 hours later, Hyung-wook hangs himself in front of the entire class — because this so-called wish-granting app always claims a life after fulfilling a wish.

    Netflix Korea seems to have another breakout hit on its hands, with the series quickly climbing to No.1 in 13 countries after release. The pacing is extremely tight throughout, and the horror atmosphere is executed remarkably well, successfully blending high school youth drama with supernatural terror while cleverly tying together smartphone apps and shamanistic rituals. The mysterious deadly app feeds on teenage desires, gradually becoming an invisible prison no one can escape from. Not only can it not be deleted from your phone, but it also relentlessly closes in on every wish-maker until death finally arrives.

    [British Drama] Good Omens Season 3

    • Keywords: Drama / Comedy / Fantasy
    • Also Known As: Good Omens Season 3
    • Runtime: 99 minutes
    • Where to Watch: Prime Video; Douban link

    I have the universe, and I still have you. I already possess everything I could ever want.

    @SHY：After becoming the Supreme Archangel, Aziraphale begins preparing for the “Second Coming,” only to discover that the resurrected Jesus has mysteriously disappeared. Left with no other choice, he turns to the self-destructive Crowley for help. Can this angel and demon duo, who have known each other since the beginning of creation, once again set aside their differences like they always have? And what kind of ending will the hidden forces manipulating everything behind the scenes ultimately bring upon the world?

    Due to the sexual assault scandal involving original author and lead creative force Neil Gaiman, the final season was cut down into a single special episode, leaving the story with painfully limited room to breathe. Unsurprisingly, the finished version carries obvious traces of cuts everywhere. The uneven pacing, constantly swinging between rushed and sluggish, makes the narrative feel noticeably more chaotic, and the overall viewing experience suffers quite a bit because of it. Even so, despite all the altered and compressed material, the two new screenwriters still do their best to preserve the ending Gaiman originally envisioned, and within the fragmented remains, you can still glimpse flashes of inspiration.

    Once the usual dark humor can no longer fully hold things together, the focus this season shifts toward what was originally a somewhat tongue-in-cheek love story between two immortal beings. David Tennant and Michael Sheen once again save the series through sincere performances and their endlessly strong on-screen chemistry. A thoroughly fan-oriented conclusion like this was always bound to divide audiences. Thankfully, the show was originally conceived as a limited mini-series anyway, so if this season’s direction feels difficult to accept, there’s nothing wrong with treating Season 1 as the true canonical ending.

    [French Drama] Cash Queens

    • Keywords: Comedy / Thriller / Crime
    • Also Known As: Les Lionnes / Cash Queens
    • Runtime: Approximately 55 minutes per episode × 8 episodes
    • Where to Watch: Netflix; Douban link

    We robbed the bank because we truly had no other choice.

    @潘誉晗：One day, Rosa approaches her manager hoping to increase her credit card limit. Not only is her request quickly rejected, but she is also informed that her limit is being lowered because her credit score has been negatively affected by debts left behind by her ex-husband, who is currently in prison. Rosa can barely believe what she’s hearing, and at that exact moment, the bank alarm suddenly goes off — it turns out the bank is conducting one of its routine emergency drills. As she listens to her manager yelling for employees to prioritize saving their own lives, an unthinkable idea begins forming in her mind: she decides to rob the very bank where she works, together with her closest friends.

    Released by Netflix France two months ago, Cash Queens is a female-led crime comedy about five women forced by desperate circumstances to disguise themselves as men in order to rob banks. The series is filled with situations that feel both absurd and painfully realistic. The five women at the center of the story work hard and genuinely try to live honest lives, yet happiness always seems out of reach. Workplace sexism, crushing debt, being sabotaged by colleagues and losing jobs, domestic abuse from husbands… Aren’t people always told that hard work leads to good outcomes? Why is it that for these women, the harder they try, the sadder life seems to become?

    [Film] Montreal, My Beauty

    • Keywords: Drama / LGBTQ+
    • Also Known As: Montréal, ma belle
    • Runtime: 117 minutes; Douban link

    When trapped between worlds, do you confront your true self or continue living inside a lie?

    @利兹与青鸟：Fengxia’s family immigrated to Canada more than a decade ago and now runs a small grocery store in Montreal, Quebec. Her husband is conservative and repeatedly struggles to find stable work due to lacking local qualifications. Her eldest daughter is deep in a rebellious phase and mostly responds to her parents with complaints and accusations. Her son is still only in elementary school, leaving no one in the family able to provide emotional support for Fengxia as she quietly suffers through menopause. During French classes, Fengxia becomes inspired by the younger students’ passion for chasing their dreams. She begins exploring LGBTQ+ dating websites and eventually meets Camille, a 30-year-old woman. Through this connection, Fengxia slowly rediscovers herself, but it also pushes her family toward crisis.

    The film’s Chinese-Canadian female director clearly draws heavily from personal experience. Through generational clashes, marriages built more on responsibility than love, and the idea that caring for family often outweighs personal fulfillment, she presents the shell of a traditional yet deeply repressive immigrant Chinese family. Many of the actors are also local Chinese Canadians, and the Mandarin spoken throughout the film sounds natural and authentic, making it especially comfortable for Chinese-speaking audiences to listen to. Although the story revolves around a middle-aged woman searching for herself within moral gray areas, the film avoids dramatic slogans and emotional outbursts. Instead, it adopts a restrained, gentle style and a calm rhythm, giving Joan Chen ample room to perform. Her portrayal breathes life into Fengxia — a woman past middle age yet still naturally romantic, graceful, and quietly magnetic — delicately and subtly conveying the confusion and struggle hidden deep within her heart while drawing the audience fully into her emotional world.

    [Anime] Dr. Stone: Science Future Part 3

    • Keywords: Manga Adaptation / Sci-Fi / Adventure
    • Also Known As: Dr.STONE SCIENCE FUTURE 第3クール
    • Runtime: 24 minutes per episode × 13 episodes, updated every Thursday
    • Where to Watch: Bahamut Anime Crazy; Douban link

    We choose to go to the Moon.

    @SHY：After a desperate struggle, the Kingdom of Science finally defeats the North American faction. Faced with an imminent threat, Senku and Xeno temporarily put aside their differences and join forces to build a spaceship capable of reaching the Moon in search of the truth behind humanity’s petrification. In order to revive more humans and secure essential materials, the group splits into three separate teams to carry out missions around the world. Meanwhile, the mysterious “WHY-Man” delivers an even more dangerous message.

    From the Stone Age to modern civilization, spanning two million years of history, this scientific adventure built from absolute zero has finally reached its final chapter. Beginning with crude handmade tools crafted shortly after awakening, the series gradually reconstructed gunpowder, ironworking, steam power, electricity, and now, in this season, the technology tree has finally advanced into the age of computers and the internet. To achieve the ultimate goal of reaching the Moon, Senku and his allies now require manpower and resources on a scale far greater than before, pushing them into a globe-spanning journey to unite the strengths of different nations.

    Even as raw materials evolve from stone into superalloys and the setting expands from tiny villages into outer space, the core appeal of the series remains unchanged. With rationality and curiosity as guiding principles, the story uses science to confront fantasy, delivering passionate moments filled with heroic spirit while carving a path toward humanity’s future and expressing a pure sense of romantic idealism. This “Apollo Program,” forged within a petrified world through the collective efforts of humanity, is genuinely exhilarating, and after everything the characters have endured, they deserve nothing less than the best possible ending.

    [Documentary] Max Verstappen: A New Journey

    • Keywords: Documentary
    • Also Known As: Max Verstappen – New Ground / Speed New Horizons: Verstappen’s Journey on the Nordschleife
    • Runtime: Approximately 23 minutes per episode × 3 episodes; Douban link

    Let’s go, racers!

    @潘誉晗：For Formula One fans, Max Verstappen is already an extraordinary name. Born into a racing family, his achievements on the track speak for themselves. But beyond his identity as a Red Bull driver, Verstappen actually lives another life as well — the owner and driver of a GT3 (Grand Touring 3) racing team. This three-episode documentary focuses on that second identity.

    “Look, the boss is driving himself.” Verstappen carries none of the airs of a team owner. After greeting everyone, he simply heads straight onto the track. He also doesn’t crave all the applause and attention for himself, instead actively searching for new talent. That’s how he discovered Chris, a gifted young racer who, like Verstappen, started out in karting (and even raced with the number 3). However, lacking the €150,000 needed for professional training, Chris had no choice but to shift his dream toward simulator racing. When Verstappen finally invites him to test a real race car on track, Chris doesn’t even have a driver’s license yet.

    After watching this documentary, it becomes impossible to deny Verstappen’s genuine passion for racing. He takes off the familiar Red Bull jacket and continues charging forward on another path within the world of motorsport.

    [Reality Show] Old Donggi Friends

    • Keywords: Reality Show
    • Also Known As: 구기동 프렌즈 / Six Singles Under One Roof
    • Runtime: Approximately 90 minutes per episode × 10 episodes; Douban link

    Let’s live together.

    @潘誉晗：Korea has recently launched another reality show titled Old Donggi Friends, bringing together six celebrities around the same age — Jang Do-yeon, Jang Keun-suk, Ahn Jae-hyun, Lee Da-hee, Kyung Soo-jin, and Daniel Choi— to experience communal living together.

    As celebrity observation-style programs become increasingly common, more and more viewers are naturally growing tired of the format. Yet Old Donggi Friends once again proves how creative Korean variety shows can still be. On the surface, it may seem like another fan-oriented celebrity reality program gathering familiar stars with established fanbases, but it finds an unexpectedly delicate angle: taking celebrities who once lived alone and placing them into a shared living environment.

    Living alone often looks incredibly freeing from the outside, so why do people who have experienced that freedom sometimes no longer want to live by themselves? That question feels like the true purpose behind observation-style reality shows in the first place — exploring broader social themes. After all, “if something exists, there must be a reason for it.” The daily lives of these six stars born in the mid-1980s also turn out to be genuinely entertaining. They each have strong personalities, yet still manage to grow closer and naturally adapt to one another. Even though they’re all celebrities used to grand situations, they still panic helplessly and scream loudly when confronted with an 18-kilogram octopus.

    Turns out living together might not be such a bad thing after all.

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    [Film] The President’s Cake
    @利兹与青鸟：Under Saddam Hussein’s dictatorship in Iraq, ordinary people struggle through unbearable hardship. Young girl Lamia lives in a hut woven from reeds, and even the apple in her schoolbag gets confiscated by her teacher. Worse still, she is chosen to bake a cream cake for the president’s birthday celebration. Lamia then embarks on a journey, trading away every valuable thing her family owns in exchange for the ingredients needed to make the cake. The film won the Caméra d’Or at last year’s Cannes Film Festival. Its cinematography is beautiful, the soundtrack is filled with rich Arabic influences, and beneath the touching innocence lies the terrifying cruelty of life during wartime Iraq.

    [Film] Hiraba no Tsuki
    @潘誉晗：The film is adapted from the novel of the same name by Kasumi Asakura. One day, Aoto Ken unexpectedly reunites with his middle school classmate Sudo Yoko after 35 years apart. The two had feelings for each other back in middle school, and through this reunion, the divorced Aoto Ken and widowed Yoko finally come together. Set in a small town in Saitama, this long-delayed middle-aged love story feels like two incomplete halves finally finding one another. The atmosphere is restrained, calm, and tinged with gentle melancholy.

    [K-Drama] The Absolute Value of Romance
    @潘誉晗：Every night, seemingly ordinary high school student Yeo Yiju secretly writes BL novels. Unfortunately, nobody reads her work. One day, four young male teachers move in next door, giving her a sudden burst of inspiration. She begins writing stories based on the four of them, and the novels unexpectedly become a huge online hit. One of those teachers, Jia Yuxiu, also happens to be her math teacher. School dramas using teacher-student dynamics as a hook often create plenty of hilarious moments, and this series is no exception, making it perfect lighthearted entertainment for stress relief.

    [British Drama] The Agency
    @潘誉晗：Kate, head of the Russia desk at MI6, receives intelligence suggesting that Russia has planted a mole inside the British government. Worse still, the Prime Minister announces his resignation due to cancer, and the mole is believed to be one of the two candidates competing to become the next Prime Minister. This new British political thriller leaves behind a deep sense of helplessness after watching, because politics is never as simple as black and white. Even when you discover who the mole is, there may still be nothing you can do.

    [Anime] Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun Season 4
    @SHY：To remain in the Royal One classroom, the Misfit Class must have every first-year student reach Rank 4. After the Harvest Festival concludes, everyone begins preparing for their final opportunity to level up — the Music Festival — only to realize they’ve overlooked an important problem right in front of them. After hiding in the background for three seasons, the inconspicuous demon Soi finally takes center stage. Can Iruma successfully lead all 13 classmates onto the stage together? Continuing the formula of previous seasons, this installment once again delivers chaotic yet heartwarming everyday life in the demon world. Both the Music Festival and the fierce Akudol Games are packed with fun, bringing weekly doses of joy.

    [Anime] Ascendance of a Bookworm: Adopted Daughter of the Lord
    @SHY：To protect her family, Myne chooses to become the adopted daughter of the Lord of Ehrenfest, stepping into noble society under the name Rozemyne. A new identity and an entirely new set of rules await her, but her passion for books remains unchanged as she continues moving forward. WIT STUDIO, a company often known for abandoning projects halfway through, surprisingly took over this light novel adaptation after dropping several major IPs. Although the season faced backlash for using AI-generated visuals in the opening sequence backgrounds, the overall production quality has improved significantly compared to the previous three seasons. The pacing has also slowed down, allowing the worldbuilding and charm of the original source material to shine through much more effectively.

    📅 This Week’s New Trailers

    New Trailer for Ghost in the Shell: THE GHOST IN THE SHELL

    On May 11, the TV anime Ghost in the Shell: THE GHOST IN THE SHELL released a new trailer and confirmed a July 7 premiere date. Directed by Shoma Kimura, written by Tow Ubukata, with character design and chief animation direction by Shuhei Handa, music composed by Taisei Iwasaki, and produced by Science SARU, the series will become the first faithful adaptation of Masamune Shirow’s original manga storyline. Source

    Silent Judgment Releases New Trailer

    On May 11, Silent Judgment, the latest series from Wong Ching-Po, director of The Pig, the Snake and the Pigeon, released a new trailer and is expected to premiere later this year. The cast reunites Ethan Juan, Gingle Wang, and Yiwen Chen, while also featuring Alyssa Chia, Joseph Chang, Nikki Hsieh, Vivian Sung, Moon Lee, and Fu Meng-po. The story revolves around a bombing and kidnapping case in Taipei in 2004, gradually uncovering deeply buried grudges, secrets, and emotional entanglements spanning three families and two generations.

    New Trailer for Blind Fury

    On May 13, the action film Blind Fury released its Hong Kong trailer and confirmed a June 12 theatrical release in Hong Kong. Directed by Kenji Tanigaki and written by Mai Tin-shu, the film stars Tse Miu, Yang Enyou, Joe Taslim, Yayan Ruhian, and JeeJa Yanin. After Wang Wei’s daughter Yuqing is kidnapped, he finds himself facing ruthless enemies from every direction, launching an all-out revenge mission filled with brutal hand-to-hand combat and deadly strikes in the name of justice. Source

    Love City Stories Release Date Trailer

    On May 13, the film Love City Stories officially announced its May 20 release date. Starring Wu Bai alongside an ensemble cast including Angelica Lee, Kuo Shu-yao, Tsai Chen-nan, Stephy Tang, Liu Kuan-ting, Sammi Cheng, Chang Chen, Ronald Cheng, Sandrine Pinna, Julia Wu, Ethan Juan, Karena Lam, 9m88, and Chu Hsuan-yang, the film is produced by Bowie Tsang with a special appearance from Lin Chi-ling. Using a newspaper delivery worker as its visual anchor, the film explores the emotions hidden within every corner of the city, with each character carrying their own joys, heartbreaks, and personal stories.

    Ultraman Origins Official Trailer

    On May 14, the official trailer for the 60th anniversary Ultraman documentary Ultraman Origins was released ahead of its July 3 premiere in Japan. Planned by Hirokazu Kore-eda, the documentary features appearances from top creators across multiple creative fields, including Guillermo del Toro, Hirokazu Kore-eda, Hideo Kojima, Hideaki Anno, Shinji Higuchi, and Nicolas Winding Refn, offering an in-depth exploration of Ultraman’s unique and enduring appeal. Source

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    Final Trailer for Mononoke the Movie: Snake God

    The final trailer for the animated film Mononoke the Movie: Snake God has been released. Serving as the concluding chapter of the theatrical trilogy, the film features Kenji Nakamura as chief director, Tomoaki Koshida as director, and is produced by Studio Kafka and EOTA studio daisy. Continuing the storylines established in Karakasa and Fire Rat, the Medicine Seller’s final ritual of salvation is about to begin. The film premieres in Japan on May 29. Source

    Official Trailer for Refrigerated

    The official trailer for Refrigerated has been released. Directed and written by Yusuke Iwasaki, the film stars Shota Sometani, Erika Karata, and Masahiko Nishimura. Set inside a convenience store in Tokyo, assistant manager Sakai lives through the same repetitive routine every day. However, the quiet balance of his life gradually begins to collapse after the arrival of a new part-time employee named Ogawa. The film opens in Japan on July 17. Source

    Wildwood Stop-Motion Film Releases Trailer

    The stop-motion animated film Wildwood has released its first trailer. Written by Chris Butler (Missing Link), the story is adapted from the fantasy children’s novel of the same name by Colin Meloy, lead singer of the American rock band The Decemberists. The voice cast includes Carey Mulligan, Mahershala Ali, Peyton Elizabeth Lee, Jacob Tremblay, Awkwafina, Angela Bassett, and more. The film will premiere in North America on October 23.

    The Human Vapor Releases Trailer

    The Human Vapor has released its first trailer. Adapted from the film of the same name, the series is directed by Shinzo Katayama, with scripts written by Yeon Sang-ho and Ryu Yong-jae. The cast includes Shun Oguri, Yu Aoi, Suzu Hirose, Kento Hayashi, and Yutaka Takenouchi. The series will premiere on Netflix on July 2.

    📽 Film & TV Weekly News

    Normandy: 72 Hours Confirmed for Mainland China Release on June 6

    On May 11, the film Normandy: 72 Hours released its mainland China release trailer and poster, confirming a June 6 theatrical debut. Created by the team behind Darkest Hour, the film stars Andrew Scott, Brendan Fraser, Kerry Condon, and Damian Lewis, focusing on Allied meteorologist Colonel James Stagg as he attempts to rewrite the fate of 300,000 people amid the chaos of an approaching storm.Source

    Masters of the Universe: Rise of He-Man Confirmed for Mainland China Release on June 5

    On May 14, the film Masters of the Universe: Rise of He-Man released its mainland China release trailer and poster, confirming a June 5 theatrical release. Directed by Travis Knight and starring Nicholas Galitzine, the story follows an alien prince forced to survive on Earth before returning home, only to discover his kingdom devastated by Skeletor. Armed with his legendary sword, he transforms into the mighty warrior He-Man and launches a battle against the forces of evil. Source

    Housemaid Service Confirmed for Mainland China Release on May 29

    On May 14, the film Housemaid Service released its mainland China release trailer and poster, confirming a May 29 theatrical release. Directed by Paul Feig and starring Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried, and Brandon Sklenar, the story follows the desperate Millie as she unexpectedly lands a live-in maid job inside a luxurious mansion. Hidden secrets, dangerous games, and escalating power struggles between master and servant soon unfold — but in the end, who will survive? Source

    Supergirl Confirmed for Mainland China Release on June 26

    On May 15, the film Supergirl released its mainland China release trailer and poster, confirming a June 26 theatrical debut. Directed by Craig Gillespie and starring Milly Alcock, the film officially introduces Kara as she travels across the vast universe searching for where she truly belongs. A massive interstellar adventure is about to begin as the rebellious and fearless Supergirl charges from Earth into the stars without hesitation. Source

    Marvel’s New Series Vision Quest Officially Receives Release Date

    On May 13, Marvel officially confirmed that its new series Vision Quest will premiere on Disney+ on October 14. The series serves as the final chapter in the MCU spin-off trilogy following WandaVision and Agatha All Along. Paul Bettany returns as Vision, James Spader reprises his role as Ultron, and Ruaridh Mollica plays Tommy, the son of Wanda and Vision. Set after the events of WandaVision, the story follows Vision’s journey to recover his memories and humanity. Source

  • Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    ☕️ TL;DR

    Recent recommendations: [Film] Letters for Grandma, [Film] The Missing Ones, [Film] Romantic Killer, [Film] The Fantastic Transformation Adventure, [British TV Series] Grace Season 6, [Animation] Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord, [Animation] Goddess: “What Do You Want to Become After Reincarnating Into Another World?” Me: “The Hero’s Rib”, [Documentary] Believe Me: The Rise and Fall of a False Prophet

    Notable new trailers: The Odyssey official trailer, Resident Evil: Outbreak Night first trailer, Evil Dead 6: Inferno official trailer, The World Is Dancing official trailer

    Film & TV news highlights: Toy Story 5 officially set for release in mainland China on June 19, Minions and the Big Monster scheduled for July 3, and the remake of One Piece confirmed for February 2027.

    [Film] Letters for Grandma

    • Keywords: Drama / Family
    • Also Known As: Dear You
    • Runtime: Around 118 minutes
    • Where to Watch: Now showing in theaters; Douban link

    People say “letters may be short, but feelings run deep” because a handwritten letter can truly carry boundless emotion and immeasurable value.

    @潘誉晗: Burdened by overwhelming debt, Xiaowei makes a bold decision — to seek out his grandfather Zheng Musheng. In truth, Xiaowei has never met him. All he knows is that his grandfather once left for Southeast Asia to make a living and supposedly became incredibly wealthy afterward. But when Xiaowei finally flies to Thailand, he discovers that his grandfather passed away long ago. So who exactly has been exchanging letters with his grandmother all these years?

    This year’s May Day holiday box office season brought plenty of new releases, but only this film — primarily spoken in the Chaoshan dialect, with neither a famous director nor major celebrity cast — managed to pull off a remarkable word-of-mouth comeback after release.

    As the concluding chapter of director Lan Hongchun’s “Chaoshan Family Trilogy,” the film tells the story of two women who have never met, yet support each other solely through letters. In doing so, it introduces audiences unfamiliar with Chaoshan culture to the concept of “Qiaopi” — overseas remittance letters that combined family correspondence with money transfers. During the years when Chinese emigrants ventured abroad to survive, these letters carried their longing for home. Later, amid wartime turmoil, they also became symbols of overseas Chinese communities who continued thinking about saving their homeland even while living abroad.

    [Film] The Missing Ones

    • Keywords: Mystery / Thriller / Crime
    • Also Known As: Vanishing Point
    • Runtime: Around 149 minutes
    • Where to Watch: Now showing in theaters; Douban link

    Perhaps your home also hides someone who has “disappeared.”

    @潘誉晗: It should have been an entirely ordinary morning — if not for Tang Nuo mysteriously vanishing in the stairwell while heading downstairs. His father Tang Ning had been standing guard at the entrance the entire time, yet somehow never saw him leave. It’s undeniably strange, but in reality, this isn’t the first disturbing incident to happen inside this apartment building. Lin Yutong, who lives alone, was drugged and sexually assaulted by an unknown intruder while asleep in her home one night. She later decides to rent out the apartment, and the new tenant Yan Wu turns out to be a gambler who secretly hides his father’s corpse in order to continue collecting the old man’s pension.

    It seems there is more than one missing person inside this building.

    The film is adapted from Beibeike’s novel Sea Anemone, which previously received a television adaptation back in 2022 that was also well received. Compared to the earlier version, the film’s biggest strength lies in condensing the story into a much tighter structure, giving the entire movie a significantly sharper pace. At the same time, the director makes excellent use of multi-perspective storytelling, creating an intense atmosphere of suspense throughout. The Chongqing setting adds a surreal urban flavor to the experience, while the heavy use of regional dialects grounds the story in a more authentic reality.

    [Film] Romantic Killer

    • Keywords: Manga Adaptation / Romance / Comedy
    • Also Known As: ロマンティックキラー / Romantic Killer
    • Runtime: 105 minutes; Douban link

    Compared to love, chocolate wins every time ♡

    @SHY: High school girl Hoshino Anzu lives entirely for video games, cats, and chocolate. But the magical being Lili, who feeds on romantic energy, strips all those pleasures away and declares that Anzu won’t get them back until she finds love. As the cold-hearted heartthrob Tsukasa Kazuki, the gentle childhood friend Junta Hayami, and the wealthy young heir Hijiri Koganei suddenly enter her life one after another, can the stubbornly resistant Anzu hold onto her beliefs?

    Although the original manga was cancelled early, the franchise has enjoyed surprisingly good luck when it comes to multimedia adaptations. Following the previously recommended Romantic Killer anime adaptation, the live-action film has now arrived right on schedule, and both versions are impressively solid. Director Eiji Hanawa, known for acclaimed live-action manga adaptations such as Kakegurui, clearly knows this genre inside and out. Together with actress Moka Kamishiraishi and members from three different idol groups, the film unleashes an endless barrage of comedic moments across the screen.

    Beyond the three main male leads, the movie also includes surprise guest appearances from a mysterious elite secret agent, mysterious dancing swordsmen, mysterious time travelers, and even a mysterious elementary-school detective. By using shoujo manga tropes to parody shoujo manga itself, the film manages to make even the most overused clichés feel fresh again. Faced with opponents each armed with their own romantic “special abilities,” will the rough-around-the-edges heroine continue dodging every relationship flag, or finally succumb to increasingly overwhelming waves of romance? This utterly chaotic love war is determined to put on one unforgettable show.

    [Film] Swapped

    • Keywords: Fantasy / Adventure / Comedy
    • Also Known As: Swapped
    • Runtime: 102 minutes
    • Where to Watch: Netflix; Douban link

    Only by standing together can we truly become stronger.

    @SHY: Long ago, celestial beasts granted animals the power to transform forms and communicate freely, allowing all creatures to live peacefully together in the same valley — until the power-hungry Flame Wolves destroyed everything. Fast forward to the present: Oli, a mischievous burrowing mouse constantly fighting over food, and Ivy, a Gavin bird, accidentally swap bodies after touching a magical bean pod. These sworn enemies must now work together to find a way back to normal.

    Whether by coincidence or not, the premise and themes here strongly resemble Pixar’s recent Beaver Transformation Project, though the execution is entirely different. As the third feature-length film from Skydance Animation, the project is helmed by former Disney veteran Nathan Greno, best known for directing Tangled. He delivers a confidently steady narrative, while newly crowned Oscar winner Michael B. Jordan leads the voice cast, bringing the vividly distinct characters fully to life.

    The film uses delightfully imaginative visual design to portray a bizarre ecosystem filled with hybrid plant-and-animal life, with impressively realistic fur textures throughout. As the burrowing mouse learns to soar through the skies and the once-flying bird learns to appreciate the ground beneath its feet, the story encourages audiences to see the world from someone else’s perspective — revealing obvious metaphors for real life along the way. By using sincerity to overcome division and creating harmony amid differences, this warm and charming story becomes a heartfelt family film suitable for audiences of all ages.

    [British TV Series] Grace Season 6

    • Keywords: Drama / Crime
    • Also Known As: Grace Season 6
    • Runtime: Around 90 minutes per episode × 4 episodes; Douban link

    Solving crimes while trying to rediscover oneself.

    @潘誉晗: When Neil is awakened by Becca, he’s sleeping in his car. Becca tells him she has received a voice message from Neil’s wife, Eden. From the trembling panic in Eden’s plea for help, it’s immediately obvious that something terrible has happened. Neil rushes home to search for her, only to find the house in complete disarray — and Eden nowhere to be found.

    After receiving the report, Grace and his team launch an investigation. As for what exactly happened the previous night, a severely hungover Eden claims she blacked out completely and remembers nothing. The police also discover that Neil’s first wife died in an accident more than a decade earlier, causing Grace and the others to inevitably begin viewing Neil himself with suspicion.

    Season 6 of Grace continues the show’s familiar structure of one case per episode, delivering four compact yet highly effective crime stories. But the appeal of the series extends far beyond its tightly constructed investigations. Detective Grace himself remains the emotional core of the show. His personal struggles are carefully woven into the spaces between each case, allowing viewers to watch a melancholic detective — haunted by the unresolved disappearance of his wife — gradually piece himself back together and rediscover the direction of his life.

    [Animation] Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord

    • Keywords: Action / Sci-Fi / Animation / Adventure
    • Also Known As: Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord
    • Runtime: Around 30 minutes per episode × 10 episodes; Douban link

    A Star Wars version of Batman.

    @潘誉晗: After the Clone Wars, Palpatine’s reign is about to begin. But this animated story takes place on a remote planet called Janix, a small democratic world that has not yet fallen fully under Imperial control. Crime syndicates thrive there, maintaining a delicate and complicated relationship with local law enforcement. A lawless frontier world like this makes the perfect place for Maul to rebuild his criminal empire. Yet Maul understands that he cannot oppose Palpatine alone. And so, he chooses to form an alliance with a young Jedi apprentice.

    Created specifically to fill in the missing narrative gap between Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels, this new Lucasfilm project aims to answer a long-standing question among fans: what exactly happened to Maul during those missing ten years? That premise alone was enough to generate huge excitement, and thankfully the final result lives up to expectations. Unlike previous Star Wars animated productions, this series features noticeably stronger production values. The visuals are stunning, the action sequences are exceptionally well choreographed, and even the quieter dramatic moments are handled with impressive care.

    [Animation] Goddess: “What Would You Like to Become After Reincarnating Into Another World?” Me: “The Hero’s Rib”

    • Keywords: Novel Adaptation / Fantasy / Comedy
    • Also Known As: 女神「異世界転生何になりたいですか」 俺「勇者の肋骨で」 / My Ribdiculous Reincarnation
    • Runtime: 23 minutes per episode × total episode count unknown, updated every Tuesday
    • Where to Watch: Bahamut Anime Crazy; Douban link

    Looks like human civilization is doomed this time!

    @SHY: After being successively killed by a bear, a bomb, gangsters, a truck, and finally a meteorite, the unfortunate protagonist arrives before the goddess responsible for handling reincarnation procedures. Hoping for a standard overpowered harem-hero fantasy life, he instead learns that the waiting line for reincarnating as a hero stretches 54,932 years long. With everything from monsters to vending machines already claimed by other souls, the destination he ultimately chooses is: “the rib bone of a harem-powered hero.”

    People say modern society is unbearably competitive, but apparently isekai worlds are no different. Becoming either a Hero or Demon King through the normal process would take an eternity, forcing reincarnators to seek increasingly absurd alternatives. The reincarnation targets in this series go far beyond imagination. Hermit crabs and tomatoes are merely appetizers. Clocktower second hands and the right-side gate of a demon castle barely qualify as strange anymore. The real insanity begins with concepts like “the voice inside a hero’s head that announces level-ups” or “the awkward atmosphere felt by a lonely single man sitting alone behind a kissing couple.”

    Faced with source material that has completely abandoned all restraint, the anime adaptation clearly had no intention of playing things safe either. Every reincarnation segment is handled by different artists from different creative disciplines, resulting in a chaotic blend of CG, stop-motion, live-action, rotoscope animation, ink painting, oil painting, clay animation, collage work, and even paper-craft sequences reminiscent of “Hellshake Yano.” Using every artistic style imaginable to deliver the most unhinged ideas possible, the show pushes creativity far beyond normal limits. Looking across this anime season, only this series truly deserves the title of “the king of spring anime and humanity’s collective nervous breakdown.”

    [Documentary] Trust Me: The False Prophet

    • Keywords: Documentary
    • Also Known As: Trust Me: The False Prophet
    • Runtime: Around 48 minutes per episode × 4 episodes
    • Where to Watch: Netflix; Douban link

    How could a cult leader possibly become a prophet?

    @潘誉晗: Inside a secluded community in Utah lives the FLDS, a splinter sect derived from Mormonism. Even after mainstream Mormonism abolished polygamy long ago, this group still firmly believes that men taking multiple wives is perfectly natural. The cult’s leader, Warren, was arrested in 2011. Yet even after his downfall, the followers never returned to normal society. Instead, a man named Sam emerged, claiming that Warren had already died in prison and that he himself had received divine instructions from Warren in the afterlife, making him the new prophet.

    This revelation is something director Christina simply cannot accept. As a cult expert, she and her husband originally entered the community hoping to better understand the believers and help them. Instead, what they discover is an even more horrifying reality: Sam continues marrying women and fathering children while threatening underage girls, forcing children to witness their parents having sex, and using the cult to amass enormous wealth.

    More than a documentary, the series often feels like a horror film written in blood and tears. Fortunately, the filmmaking team demonstrates extraordinary empathy while venturing deep into such dangerous territory. While exposing the horrifying truth behind the cult, they also help many of the abused women finally begin awakening to their own reality.

    More

    [Film] Cold War 1994
    @潘誉晗：This installment uses the disappearance of Lee Man-bing in 2017 as its starting point. As investigators dig into the case, a long-sealed archive is finally reopened — a classified file dating back to 1994. Inside lies the story of a young Lee Man-bing and Choi Yuen-kei, the power struggle between Hong Kong and British authorities, wealthy tycoons and the criminal underworld. It turns out this battle over power had already begun long before Hong Kong’s handover. As a crucial missing piece of the franchise, Cold War 1994 does an excellent job answering many of the mysteries left behind by the first two films.

    [Taiwanese Drama] Fruit
    @潘誉晗：It all began with a simple interaction while rescuing a cat on a rainy day. Guoshu suddenly realizes she has developed feelings for Ronghua. But she also knows this secret crush can never be spoken aloud — because Ronghua is her art teacher. Across ten ultra-short episodes, each running less than five minutes, the series delicately captures the hidden emotions of a teenage girl’s first love. Teacher-student romance, same-sex attraction — the themes feel like the forbidden fruit eaten by Adam and Eve: irresistible and sweet, yet dangerous and daring all at once.

    [Japanese Drama] Izumi Kyoka Will Not Stay Silent
    @利兹与青鸟：This original spin-off story based on Thus Spoke Kishibe Rohan places Rohan’s editor and assistant Izumi Kyoka at the center of the narrative. Rohan notices something deeply unsettling about the work of a manga artist named Sean, whom Izumi discovered. When Izumi visits the artist herself, she becomes caught in a string of bizarre and grotesque events. Original Hirohiko Araki creator Hirohiko Araki participated in writing the screenplay, while the directing team also brings extensive experience in horror productions. The atmosphere is exceptionally well crafted, the story remains easy to follow, and the show feels perfect for a gloomy afternoon viewing session.

    [Animation] CANDY CARIES
    @SHY：A little girl named Candy, who absolutely adores sweets, suddenly discovers that a cavity monster named Caries has taken up residence inside her mouth. Stubbornly insisting that Candy is now her mother, Caries completely turns Candy’s life upside down. What kind of daily life will unfold between this inseparable “mother and daughter” pair? After briefly stunning audiences with its first teaser back in 2021, the long-awaited original work from Tomoki Misato — director of Pui Pui Molcar — has finally arrived. Filled with adorable macaron-inspired colors and exquisitely detailed candy-like textures, this slightly cult-like stop-motion animation somehow manages to make your teeth ache while remaining irresistibly delightful to watch.

    [Animation] If Kuzma Sings, the House Goes Dorororo
    @SHY：On his way home from school, middle school student Arata Koda encounters a mysterious creature named Kuzma scavenging coins beneath a vending machine. Half bird and half humanoid, Kuzma claims to be a migratory bird raised by humans who traveled all the way from Russia to Japan in order to study migration habits — and soon ends up staying at Arata’s home. Although both the title and characters may initially seem bizarre, the show is ultimately built around warm and cozy slice-of-life storytelling. Its healing atmosphere mixed with faint traces of weirdness creates an unexpectedly charming combination. As Kuzma occasionally whispers honest thoughts in Russian under his breath, the real question becomes: can this strange little creature win your heart?

    [Reality Show] Beast Games Season 2
    @潘誉晗：Following the massive success of the first season, MrBeast returns once again with a grand prize of five million dollars to launch a brand-new competition season. This time, the format continues the previous season’s battle between strength and intelligence, selecting one ultimate winner from one hundred of the world’s strongest contestants and one hundred of the smartest. The pacing remains extremely tight with no wasted time. Beyond raw physical ability and intelligence, the games also test strategy, trust, and human nature itself.

    📅 Trailers of the Week

    The Odyssey Official Trailer

    On May 5, director Christopher Nolan released the official trailer for his new film The Odyssey, which is set to premiere in North America on July 17. Starring Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Lupita Nyong’o, Robert Pattinson, and Charlize Theron, the film follows Odysseus’ long and impossible journey home after the Trojan War as he defies both gods and fate itself. Source

    Resident Evil: Outbreak Night First Trailer

    On April 30, the first trailer for Resident Evil: Outbreak Night was released ahead of its North American premiere on September 18. Directed by Zach Cregger (Weapons, Barbarian), the story follows a medical courier sent to Raccoon City who becomes trapped in a full-scale viral outbreak. As the city collapses into chaos and mutated creatures begin hunting survivors, he must find a way to stay alive inside the nightmare. Source

    Evil Dead 6: Inferno Official Trailer

    On May 6, the official trailer for Evil Dead 6: Inferno was released. The film will debut in North America on July 10. Directed by Sébastien Vaniček (Infested), the movie stars Souheila Yacoub, Hunter Doohan, Luciane Buchanan, Tandi Wright, Lara McDonnell, Maud Wyler, and Kenu Karim. Evil spirits are coming, and no one will be able to escape. Source

    The World Is Dancing Official Trailer

    On May 7, the TV anime The World Is Dancing released its official trailer ahead of its July 2 premiere. Adapted from the manga by Kazuto Mihara, the series is directed by Toshimitsu Kuroyanagi, written by Sawako Kawamitsu, and animated by Cypic. Set during Japan’s Muromachi period, the story follows “Oniyasha,” the son of renowned Noh master Kan’ami of the Kanze troupe, as he continuously challenges himself through artistic creation. Source

    More

    The TV anime Drawing Until the End of Life released its official trailer. Adapted from Minoru Toyoda’s manga of the same name, the series is directed by Hiroaki Akagi with series composition by Yuko Fukuda and animation by Shin-Ei Animation. It tells the romantic coming-of-age story of high school student Ai Amikai, who dreams of becoming a manga artist and begins her creative journey after a chance encounter. The series premieres on July 3. Source

    Tony, a new biographical film from A24, released its first trailer. Directed by Matt Johnson and starring Dominic Sessa, the film explores the life of celebrity chef, writer, and television host Anthony Bourdain. Beginning in 1975 when the 19-year-old Bourdain worked in a restaurant kitchen, the story traces how food and the people around him gradually shaped both his inspiration and purpose in life. The film will premiere in North America this August. Source

    Weird Retirement Town released its official trailer. Produced by the Duffer Brothers, creators of Stranger Things, the series premieres on Netflix on May 21. The story follows a grieving newcomer who, after encountering terrifying monsters, joins a ragtag team of misfit heroes.

    📽 Film & TV News Weekly

    Toy Story 5 Confirmed for June 19 Release in Mainland China
    On May 7, Toy Story 5 released its mainland China release trailer and poster, officially confirming a June 19 premiere day-and-date with North America. Directed by Andrew Stanton and McKenna Harris, the film reunites beloved old friends including Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Jessie as the childhood companions once again join forces to face a wave of powerful new electronic “friends.” Source

    Minions and the Big Monster Set for July 3 Release in Mainland China
    On May 7, the animated film Minions and the Big Monster released its mainland China release trailer and a brand-new poster, confirming a July 3 release, two days after its North American debut. Directed by Pierre Coffin, written by Brian Lynch, and produced by Illumination, the film promises an unprecedented chaotic comedy showdown. New mysterious allies join the madness while giant monsters relentlessly give chase, turning the entire production into pure comedic mayhem. Source

    The One Piece Remake Anime Scheduled for February 2027
    On May 5, the remake anime series The One Piece released its first concept visual for Episode 1. The first season is scheduled to premiere on Netflix in February 2027, consisting of seven episodes totaling roughly 300 minutes and covering the first 50 chapters of the manga. The series is directed by Masashi Koizuka, with Hideaki Abe serving as assistant director, Taku Kishimoto handling series composition, Kyoji Asano and Takatoshi Honda as chief animation directors, and animation production by WIT STUDIO. Source

  • Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    ☕️ TL;DR

    Recent recommendations: [Film] Burn Biwa, [Film] Master of the World, [K-Drama] Trying Hard to Overcome Our Inferiority, [K-Drama] Scarecrow, [J-Drama] Walking Through Moonlit Nights: Answers Found in Literary Classics, [British Drama] Half a Man, [US Series] Running Point Season 2, [Animation] Stranger Things 1985 Story Collection Season 1, [Animation] Romance of the Three Kingdoms: Japan Edition, [Animation] Marriage Toxin

    A few exciting trailers: the official trailer for Spider-Noir, a new teaser for House of the Dragon Season 3, the first trailer for Ted Lasso Season 4, and the first-look trailer for Innocent Sins

    A few film and TV updates: the first poster for Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, a China-exclusive poster for Mortal Kombat 2, Supergirl confirmed for release in mainland China, Masters of the Universe confirmed for release in mainland China, Jaws scheduled for release in mainland China on May 15, Memento scheduled for mainland China release on May 29, and the main visual for Chiikawa: The Secret of Mermaid Island

    For previous recommendations, click here or tap the tag #WhatToWatchThisWeek at the end of the article. More themed watchlists can be found here. If you’d like to explore more in-depth film and television content, you can also follow our spin-off column “What to Watch Café.” As always, feel free to leave suggestions in the comments section, and thank you for your continued love and support for the “What to Watch” series.

    [Film] Burn Biwa

    • Keywords: Fantasy / Adventure
    • Runtime: 85 minutes
    • Where to watch: Now showing in theaters; Douban link

    And so humanity discovered fire — the secret of warmth.

    @SHY: Raised by a human tribe, the monkey child Burn Biwa sets off alongside a young wolf named Doggy, following in the footsteps of his mother Awubaji toward the sacred mountain Niluojiage in search of a mysterious object that has defeated countless warriors before them. Ferocious beasts and unforgiving environments test their courage and wisdom, while at the end of this arduous journey lies not only the secret of Burn Biwa’s origins, but perhaps something capable of changing the course of human civilization itself.

    As the first feature-length hand-painted rice-paper animation from the Shanghai Animation Film Studio, the film combines traditional Eastern aesthetics with modern animation techniques. More than 50,000 sheets of rice paper were ink-washed by hand, bringing the texture and tactile quality of the material directly onto the screen. The production also invited 69 artists from various fields to reinterpret the line art in different styles, using collage, stop-motion, and other techniques to explore new possibilities for 2D animation. Beyond its breathtaking visuals, the soundtrack composed by the Wild Children band is equally captivating.

    Drawing from Qiang ethnic mythology passed down for thousands of years, the creators reshaped the story into a coming-of-age adventure more accessible to contemporary audiences. The friendship forged between Burn Biwa and Doggy is deeply moving. If there is one slight drawback, it is that the overly dense dialogue somewhat weakens the poetic emptiness of the imagery; personally, I think the overall experience would have been even stronger with more restrained narration. Nevertheless, this experimental hand-painted animated feature remains a valuable exploration for Chinese animation and deserves far more recognition.

    Related reading: How iPad Empowered the Making of Burn Biwa, China’s First Feature-Length Rice-Paper Hand-Drawn Animation

    [Film] Master of the World

    • Keywords: Drama
    • Also known as: 세계의 주인 / The World of Love
    • Runtime: 119 minutes; Douban link

    We are all the masters of our own world.

    @SHY: Lee Joo-in is a cheerful and lively high school student with close friends, a budding romance, and a position at the center of her class’s social circle. However, when her classmates organize a petition opposing the return of a convicted rapist to the community after prison release, Joo-in becomes the only student who refuses to sign. A few impulsive words suddenly change the world around her.

    When films portray survivors of sexual violence, they often emphasize the devastating consequences of the trauma, as though victims are doomed to remain trapped by it for life. While this kind of social narrative can raise awareness, could it also become another invisible prison imposed upon survivors themselves? Carrying such questions and reflections, director Yoon Ga-eun, known for her focus on women’s perspectives, draws inspiration from multiple real-world incidents to portray the long aftermath of a child sexual assault case with remarkable restraint.

    The film contains no caricatured villains. Family members and classmates alike try, in their own ways, to protect Joo-in, approaching the same issue from multiple perspectives. Repeated visual parallels vividly show the shifts in attitude over time. There is long-suppressed sorrow as well as storm-like emotional release, yet the film never loses its resilient spirit. The one whose life should be destroyed is the perpetrator, not the victim. Even if the scars can never fully fade, we can continue living with the pain and still become the masters of our own world.

    [K-Drama] Trying Hard to Overcome Our Inferiority

    • Keywords: Drama
    • Also known as: 모두가 자신의 무가치함과 싸우고 있다 / Everyone is Fighting Their Own Worthlessness
    • Runtime: Approximately 68 minutes per episode × 12 episodes; Douban link

    It turns out every one of us is fighting against the version of ourselves we believe to be worthless.

    @潘誉晗: Hwang Dong-man is 40 years old and has spent two decades struggling within the film industry. Yet compared to the other members of the “Group of Eight,” his former classmates from film school, he remains unsuccessful. While his peers have long achieved fame, directing blockbuster films and winning awards, Dong-man barely survives through odd jobs, talking endlessly just to convince himself that he still has dreams worth holding onto.

    Byun Eun-ah, nicknamed “Axe,” is a professional producer. After years of hard work, she has built a respectable career for herself, but beneath the surface she is deeply sensitive and anxious. Under intense stress, she sometimes even suffers nosebleeds. And on one particular night, these two deeply insecure people cross paths.

    Screenwriter Park Hae-young, known for acclaimed works such as My Mister and My Liberation Notes, once again delivers a drama filled with unforgettable lines. There is no grand romance or flashy plot setup here. Instead, through the meeting of two broken, self-loathing individuals, the series exposes the hidden wounds that many modern people dare not reveal. In the end, it gently reminds us that we do not need to please others or be consumed by the noise of the outside world. Only by reconciling with ourselves can we regain the courage to truly live.

    [K-Drama] The Scarecrow

    • Keywords: Mystery / Crime
    • Also known as: 허수아비 / The Scarecrow
    • Runtime: Approximately 60 minutes per episode × 12 episodes; Douban link

    The television version of Memories of Murder.

    @利兹与青鸟: This series is adapted from South Korea’s infamous Hwaseong serial murder case. Anyone who has seen the film Memories of Murder will likely already be familiar with it. In the late 1980s, multiple women were murdered using similar methods, yet the police lacked sufficient evidence to identify the killer. Thirty years later, advances in DNA technology finally bring a breakthrough. In order to secure a confession, investigators seek out Kang Tae-joo, one of the detectives originally assigned to the case, to assist with the reinvestigation. The story then shifts back to 1988, where Detective Kang, after offending his superiors, is reassigned to the small town of Gangseong. Upon arrival, he is immediately drawn into the serial murder investigation, alongside Prosecutor Cha — the same person who bullied him during childhood.

    As the investigation deepens, a vivid portrait of 1980s police and civilian life gradually unfolds: Detective Kang, devoted to solving the case despite his faltering career; Prosecutor Cha, outwardly respectable yet ruthless beneath the surface; a sharp and justice-driven reporter; and innocent, helpless survivors. Familiar suspects from the original film, including the laundry shop owner and bookstore clerk, also make appearances, adding to the suspense. Compared to the movie, the series expands the rivalry between Detective Kang and Prosecutor Cha, offering a more detailed look at bureaucratic corruption, outdated investigative methods, and violent interrogation practices. The performances are excellent as well, especially Lee Hee-joon, who completely sheds his righteous image from Mouse to portray Prosecutor Cha in a way that makes viewers genuinely despise him. Highly recommended for anyone interested in the real-life case.

    [J-Drama] Moonlit Road: The Answer Lies in Literary Classics

    • Keywords: Drama / Comedy / Mystery
    • Also known as: 月夜行路 －答えは名作の中に－
    • Runtime: Approximately 45 minutes per episode × 10 episodes; Douban link

    The key to solving crimes lies within literary masterpieces.

    @潘誉晗: Suspecting her husband of infidelity, housewife Ryoko follows a business card she discovers hidden away and heads to a club in Ginza, only to accidentally end up in a bar instead. The bar’s owner, Luna, learns about Ryoko’s troubles and discovers that she still cannot forget her first love. On a whim, Luna drives Ryoko all the way to Osaka to search for that long-lost lover. Along the journey, the two women encounter numerous cases, while literature-loving Luna visits various literary landmarks across Osaka and uses stories from famous literary works to uncover the truth behind each mystery.

    Adapted from the novel of the same name by Rikako Akiyoshi, the series may not offer particularly surprising cases from a mystery standpoint — most of them are relatively understated — but its core premise is undeniably charming. Ryoko, an overlooked and seemingly ordinary housewife, and Luna, a transgender bar owner, appear to belong to completely different worlds, yet unexpectedly become perfect companions. Their road trip is filled not only with romantic literary references, unresolved cases, and lingering regrets tied to first love, but also with a gradual rediscovery of agency over their own lives.

    [British Drama] Half Man

    • Keywords: Comedy
    • Also known as: Half Man / Lions
    • Runtime: Approximately 56 minutes per episode × 6 episodes; Douban link

    You’re not my brother — you’re my other lover.

    @潘誉晗: Neil is stunned when he learns that a new student from a juvenile detention center will soon be joining his class. The transfer student, Ruben, happens to be the son of the woman currently living with Neil’s mother. In a sense, Neil and Ruben are stepbrothers with no blood relation at all. Naturally timid, Neil is terrified of the violent-tempered Ruben, and anxiously asks his mother whether Ruben will be living with them. Calmly, she informs him that she has already placed another bed in his room — Ruben will not only move into their house, but also share a bedroom with him.

    This HBO limited series focuses on two deeply broken men and adopts a dual-timeline narrative structure. It opens with the adult Ruben showing up at Neil’s wedding and violently assaulting him, before shifting back to their youth. Gradually, we watch two completely different young men become intertwined in each other’s lives because of their mothers’ relationship. From mutual hostility to emotional intimacy, these two unrelated individuals eventually become closer than brothers — while also developing feelings that are far more complicated. Over the course of this thirty-year entanglement, it becomes impossible to say whether what binds them together is brotherhood… or an unspoken love.

    [US Series] Running Point Season 2

    • Keywords: Comedy
    • Also known as: Running Point Season 2
    • Runtime: Approximately 30 minutes per episode × 8 episodes
    • Where to watch: Netflix; Douban link

    Who says women can’t run a basketball team?

    @潘誉晗: Cam has returned early from rehab, heading straight to what used to be his office — and is now Isla’s — to give her a huge “surprise.” Although Cam claims that Isla is now the president of the Waves and insists he has no intention of competing for power, saying he only wants an office and will fully support her work, Isla knows better. His return is clearly aimed at reclaiming control of the team. And true enough, Cam wastes no time getting deeply involved in every aspect of the organization’s operations and decision-making. As a result, Isla must not only continue successfully managing the team this season, but also ensure that she leaves absolutely no room for mistakes that her brother could use against her.

    Inspired by the real-life experiences of Jeanie Buss — the first female executive to lead an NBA championship team — the series follows a woman who owns a popular basketball franchise while battling her own family for control and simultaneously leading the team toward a championship run. With real events serving as inspiration and Cam’s return adding fresh tension, this season is noticeably more engaging than the last. The Gordon family’s constant mix of support and rivalry delivers both humor and genuine emotional warmth.

    [Animation] Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 Season 1

    • Keywords: Drama / Animation / Fantasy / Adventure
    • Also known as: Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 Season 1
    • Runtime: Approximately 30 minutes per episode × 10 episodes
    • Where to watch: Netflix; Douban link

    The adventure isn’t over yet.

    @潘誉晗: Hawkins, Indiana, 1985. Although Eleven still cannot return to school as she wishes, after surviving the battle to close the Upside Down, the group of kids finally feel like life once again holds some hope and excitement. A major snowstorm is expected to hit Hawkins the following week, forcing the town into lockdown for several days — which, to the kids, sounds like the perfect opportunity for fun.

    To fund their plans, they decide to use Eleven’s powers to help townspeople clear snow in exchange for money. It seems like a brilliant idea at first, until a brand-new supernatural creature suddenly appears in the snow. Fearing that the government might conclude Eleven failed to fully close the Upside Down, the group decides to capture the monster themselves.

    As an animated spin-off of the hugely popular Stranger Things franchise, the story is set between Seasons 2 and 3 of the main series. Because it cannot alter the continuity of the original story, the animation naturally faces certain narrative limitations. Fortunately, this animated adventure focuses primarily on the younger cast and leans into a youthful exploration-and-adventure format, meaning it doesn’t need extensive expansion to work. The pacing remains light and energetic throughout, and once that familiar soundtrack begins to play, the nostalgia hits instantly.

    [Animation] Nippon Sangoku: The Three Nations of the Crimson Sun

    • Keywords: Manga Adaptation / Drama / War
    • Also known as: 日本三國 / Nippon Sangoku: The Three Nations of the Crimson Sun
    • Runtime: 24 minutes per episode × episode count unknown, updated every Sunday
    • Where to watch: Prime Video; Douban link

    It was this chaotic era that ruined you.

    @SHY: The world’s great trends divide after long periods of unity. In the final years of the Reiwa era, Japan collapses amid internal conflict and external crises under the shadow of nuclear winter. After decades of warlord rule, three new nations — Yamato, Seii, and Bukou — rise from the wasteland. In the 56th year of the Yamato calendar, a young boy named Mikado Aoki steps onto the stage of history after a sudden upheaval. Later celebrated as a brilliant military strategist, he begins writing the epic tale that will eventually unify the three kingdoms.

    Although the setting takes place in a near future after nuclear war and civilizational collapse, it may be more accurate to view the series as alternate historical fiction. Not only have political systems and productive capacity regressed, but public consciousness itself has largely returned to something resembling feudal society. Raised by a librarian, the protagonist draws knowledge from books of the old world, repeatedly devising ingenious strategies inspired by texts ranging from The Art of War to agricultural settlement systems. These familiar historical references help balance out the somewhat rough worldbuilding through concise yet effective emotional progression.

    Director Kazuaki Terasawa continues the striking visual style he displayed in Fujimoto Tatsuki 17-26, establishing a grim and oppressive tone through bold imagery. The first episode’s extensive black-and-white visuals, interrupted by flashes of blood-red color, create an intense visual impact, while minimalist shot composition brings characters vividly to life in just a few strokes. The ironic narrative tone further enhances the series’ dark humor, compensating for certain logical inconsistencies while embracing the chaotic fusion of serious drama and absurd comedy to depict individuals struggling against the overwhelming tide of history.

    [Animation] Marriagetoxin

    • Keywords: Manga Adaptation / Action / Romance / Comedy
    • Also known as: マリッジトキシン / Marriagetoxin
    • Runtime: 24 minutes per episode × episode count unknown, updated every Tuesday
    • Where to watch: Bahamut Anime Crazy; Douban link

    Turns out men can be this beautiful too…

    @SHY: Gero Hikaru, heir to a clan of poison users, works as an assassin isolated from ordinary society. He originally intended to remain single forever, until he learns that his younger sister Mei is being forced by the family elders to break up with her girlfriend in order to continue the bloodline. Determined to protect his sister’s relationship, Hikaru forms a contract with Mei Kinosaki, a cross-dressing marriage scam artist, hoping that Mei can help him find a suitable marriage partner.

    After so many sweet romance stories, perhaps it’s finally time for an all-out matchmaking comedy. Mei, positioned as the ultimate wingman, effortlessly charms both men and women while personally coaching the socially awkward Hikaru on how to pursue relationships. Of course, as assassins, neither of their targets are ordinary people. Once they set their sights on a mission target, both combat and dating become equally dangerous endeavors. And amid all the adrenaline and “bridge effect” tension, they may accidentally get emotionally trapped themselves. Surrounded by countless beautiful women though Hikaru may be, perhaps the true path forward lies in “man plus man.”

    After repeated setbacks, Bones Studio’s “crown prince” Motonobu Hori temporarily puts aside his ill-timed artistic ambitions in order to prove himself with a pure commercial crowd-pleaser. Stylish visuals, energetic music, and dazzling action animation combine to deliver a fast-paced supernatural battle × romantic comedy where both romance and humor are absolutely essential. Filled with classic hero-saves-the-beauty moments and explosive chemistry, this pure entertainment-focused popcorn spectacle is never boring for a second.

    More

    [K-Drama] The Grand Prince’s Wife of the 21st Century
    @潘誉晗: Set in a 21st-century South Korea that still operates under a constitutional monarchy, the series follows Sung Hee-joo, the talented illegitimate daughter of a wealthy family who remains excluded from high society because of her birth. In order to enter aristocratic circles, she approaches Grand Prince Lee-an, the royal family’s second son, proposing a marriage alliance that would benefit them both through an exchange of resources. Beneath its fictional backdrop and subtle exploration of class divides, the series is ultimately a light romantic drama centered on a marriage-of-convenience-turned-love story — perfect for relaxing viewing.

    [J-Drama] Travel, Me, and Cats
    @潘誉晗: Travel writer Nekogami Mamoru possesses a mysterious supernatural ability — he can talk to cats. Using this secret gift during his journeys, he learns from cats where to find delicious food and the best hidden destinations. Like a solitary gourmet traveler with superpowers, he enjoys the cuisine of Izu alone while quietly taking in the scenery along the way. Filled with food, cats, and beautiful landscapes, this 24-minute-per-episode mini-series is deeply comforting and healing.

    [Film] Nino
    @利兹与青鸟: After a medical checkup, 29-year-old Nino learns that he has cancer, and that treatment may affect his fertility, requiring sperm preservation. Faced with this sudden upheaval, he struggles to process the news, responding to the chaos around him with a quiet, numb confusion. Wandering alone through a steel-forest-like city, he appears especially small and lonely, yet gradually finds warmth and comfort through interactions with family and friends. Rather than relying on dramatic conflict or emotional outbursts, the film delicately captures the emotional flow and ordinary moments of one weekend in Nino’s life, resulting in something gentle, fresh, and quietly moving.

    [J-Drama] Error
    @SHY: Mio Ohsako’s world is turned upside down after her mother jumps from a building and accidentally kills a passerby below. While trying to rebuild her life, she unexpectedly befriends Yume Nakata, an employee at a moving company, unaware that Yume hides a secret capable of changing both of their destinies forever. How grave must a mistake be to become unforgivable? From grieving families to the police, none of the characters in this series are entirely innocent. Multiple households tied to the tragedy become entangled through a chain of coincidences, with each person’s seemingly minor mistake pushing events further toward irreversible disaster. A friendship born from lies is destined to face countless twists and turns.

    [J-Drama] The Flowers of Evil
    @SHY: Kasuga Takao, the only student in his class who has read Baudelaire, always carries a melancholy that others cannot understand. One day, while returning to school to retrieve his poetry book, he accidentally steals the gym uniform of his crush, Saeki Nanako, only to be caught by his classmate Nakamura Sawa. From that moment on, the destinies of these three seemingly unrelated teenagers become intertwined. Following the TV anime and live-action film, Shuzo Oshimi’s twisted cult classic receives its third adaptation. The casting for Kasuga and Saeki is fairly conventional, but ano’s portrayal of Nakamura feels astonishingly perfect. Against vivid visual compositions, the series tells a strange coming-of-age story blooming within repression.

    [J-Drama] Hell Astrologer
    @利兹与青鸟: Erika Toda plays Kazuko Hosoki, whose life is as dramatic as it is legendary. From nightclub hostess to business owner and eventually a wealthy socialite, her ambition and desire prevent her from accepting the role of merely being a childbearing tool. After leaving everything behind, she rebuilds herself into the “Queen of Ginza,” navigating fame, fortune, and heartbreak before ultimately becoming one of the entertainment world’s most famous astrologers. The series boasts lavish costumes and production values, along with an outstanding soundtrack. While there are moments of exhilarating drama, it also falls into some clichéd and tedious territory.

    [British Drama] Peppermint
    @潘誉晗: One night, 22-year-old Shannon encounters Alan on the tracks of an abandoned train station. The two fall in love at first sight, understanding each other instantly without needing words. But Shannon comes from a mafia family, while Alan belongs to a rival clan long opposed to hers, making their relationship doomed from the start. A gangster-inspired Romeo and Juliet, the story has a few narrative flaws, but the magical realist aesthetic conveyed through its cinematography is exceptionally refined.

    [Animation] My Brother Is a Minotaur
    @SHY: Loken, a minotaur adopted by a human family, is haunted by mysterious dreams and gradually loses control over himself. Accompanied by his younger brother Charlie and friends Dana and Harper, he begins investigating the mystery of his origins, only to discover danger lurking throughout the ancient ruins they explore. Produced by Cartoon Saloon, the series features the studio’s signature hand-drawn art style, blending Celtic folklore into a lighthearted coming-of-age adventure that slowly uncovers the hidden secrets of a mysterious island. The viewing experience is refreshing and entertaining — though the abrupt season finale feels somewhat excessive.

    [Animation] Rilakkuma
    @利兹与青鸟: Rilakkuma enters the world of animation, sailing across the ocean before accidentally ending up on a deserted island after oversleeping. There, he meets companions such as Kiiroitori and Korilakkuma, and together they play in the forest, host tea parties, and enjoy delicious pastries and tea. Each episode lasts only one minute and airs every Saturday at 9 PM on Bilibili. The art style is soothing and adorable, and even more interestingly, Rilakkuma is narrated by YOASOBI vocalist Lilas Ikuta, who also performs the ending song — perfect for putting on repeat.

    [Reality Show] Their Australian Driving Holiday
    @潘誉晗: To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the TVB drama Short End of the Stick, TVB reunited stars Wayne Lai, Tsui Wing-lim, and Edmond Leung for a self-driving trip across Australia. Wearing matching necklaces, reminiscing about filming memories while driving, and chatting nonstop whenever old acquaintances come up, the chemistry between these longtime friends creates endless comedic moments. Watching the trio embark on a road trip together turns the show into a constant stream of laughter.

    📅 Trailers of the Week

    Spider-Noir Releases Official Trailer

    On April 26, the series Spider-Noir released official trailers in both black-and-white and color versions. The show premieres on May 27 on Prime Video. Starring Nicolas Cage, the story follows an aging, down-on-his-luck private detective in 1930s New York who also happens to be the city’s only superhero, forced to confront the ghosts of his past life. Source

    New Trailer for House of the Dragon Season 3

    On April 27, HBO released a new trailer for House of the Dragon Season 3, officially set to premiere on June 21. Matt Smith, Emma D’Arcy, Olivia Cooke, Steve Toussaint, and Rhys Ifans return as an even more brutal war approaches. The promise of “an empire that cannot be destroyed” arrives alongside bloodshed and devastating loss. Source

    Ted Lasso Season 4 Debuts First Trailer

    On April 28, Ted Lasso Season 4 released its first trailer and announced an August 5 premiere on Apple TV+. Jason Sudeikis, Hannah Waddingham, Juno Temple, Brett Goldstein, and Jeremy Swift reprise their roles as Ted Lasso returns to Richmond to face his greatest challenge yet: coaching a second-division women’s football team. Source

    First Trailer Revealed for The Sinner Who Never Existed

    On April 28, the first trailer for The Sinner Who Never Existed was unveiled. The film stars Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson, and Josh Hartnett, directed by Michael Showalter, who previously collaborated with Hathaway on The Idea of You. Written by Nick Antosca and adapted from a suspense romance novel by Colleen Hoover, the film is scheduled for North American release on October 2.

    📽 Film & TV News Weekly

    First Poster Revealed for Stuart Fails to Save the Universe

    On April 27, the first poster for Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, a spin-off of The Big Bang Theory, was released alongside its premiere window announcement. The series will debut on HBO Max this July. The story centers on comic book store owner Stuart Bloom, once again played by Kevin Sussman. Lauren Lapkus, Brian Posehn, and John Ross Bowie also return. The project is created by Big Bang Theory creators Chuck Lorre, Bill Prady, and Zak Penn.

    Mortal Kombat 2 Releases China-Exclusive Poster

    On April 28, the R-rated action film Mortal Kombat 2 released a China-exclusive poster and trailer ahead of its May 8 release. Karl Urban stars as Johnny Cage, while Adeline Rudolph plays Kitana and Martyn Ford portrays Shao Kahn. Returning cast members include Ludi Lin, Mehcad Brooks, Jessica McNamee, and Hiroyuki Sanada, with Simon McQuoid once again directing.

    Supergirl Confirmed for Mainland China Release

    On April 29, the new DC film Supergirl was officially confirmed for release in mainland China, accompanied by a trailer and poster. The release date has yet to be announced. Directed by Craig Gillespie, the film stars Milly Alcock as Supergirl and Jason Momoa as Lobo, alongside Eve Ridley, Matthias Schoenaerts, Emily Beecham, and David Krumholtz. The story promises an interstellar adventure intertwined with revenge and justice. Source

    Masters of the Universe Confirmed for Mainland China Release

    On April 30, the film Masters of the Universe was officially confirmed for release in mainland China, accompanied by a trailer and poster. The release date remains unannounced. Directed by Travis Knight and starring Nicholas Galitzine and Jared Leto, the story follows Adam, who has been living an ordinary office-worker life on Earth before finally returning to Eternia, only to discover his homeland shattered under Skeletor’s rule. Source

    Jaws Set for Mainland China Release on May 15

    On April 30, Jaws, the classic thriller directed by Steven Spielberg, was officially scheduled for its first-ever theatrical release in mainland China on May 15, nearly 50 years after the film’s original debut. After a series of shark attacks throws the resort town of Amity Island into panic, Police Chief Brody, fisherman Quint, and marine biologist Hooper head out to sea for a deadly confrontation. Source

    Memento Set for Mainland China Release on May 29

    On April 29, Memento released a China release trailer and poster, confirming a mainland China theatrical release on May 29, including IMAX and CINITY formats. Directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Guy Pearce, Carrie-Anne Moss, and Joe Pantoliano, the film follows a man suffering from memory loss as he pursues revenge through fragmented clues hidden within his memories. Source

    Chiikawa: The Secret of Mermaid Island Reveals Main Visual

    On April 27, the animated film Chiikawa: The Secret of Mermaid Island released its main visual ahead of its July 24 premiere in Japan. Directed by Kei Oikawa and produced by Cypic, the film adapts a story originally posted on X in 2023 by creator nagano. After receiving a mysterious invitation, the adorable protagonists head to an island training camp — only to discover unexpected surprises awaiting them there. Source

    🍿 May Day Holiday Theatrical Releases

    Cold War 1994

    Directed by Leung Lok-man, starring 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. Premieres May 1.

    In 2017, Lee Man-bun suddenly disappears, while Tsai Yuen-kei is assassinated in the United Kingdom. In response, Lau Kit-fai seeks assistance from Barrister Sean Au-yeung, uncovering a mysterious archive dating back to 1994. On the eve of Hong Kong’s handover, as the Special Branch prepares for dissolution, a wealthy businessman’s kidnapping case sparks a hidden power struggle within the police force between the righteous and passionate Lee Man-bun and the cold, ambitious Tsai Yuen-kei. British authorities, the police, tycoons, and the underworld become entangled in a dangerous game of power, setting the stage for the Cold War crisis decades later.

    A Letter to Grandma

    Directed by Lan Hongchun (Take Me to Meet My Mom), starring Li Sitong, Wang Yantong, Wu Shaoqing, and Zheng Runqi. Premieres April 30.

    Chaoshan grandmother Ye Shurou has long lived a quiet and peaceful life in her old age. Her grandson Xiaowei, burdened by debt, secretly travels to Thailand in search of his rumored billionaire grandfather Zheng Musheng. But Xiaowei returns with shocking news for the entire family: Grandpa passed away long ago, and the person who had been exchanging affectionate letters with Grandma all these years was actually a complete stranger. As Xiaowei continues investigating, a hidden love story buried for half a century resurfaces and strikes directly at Grandma’s heart.

    The Ward 10 Squad

    Directed by Chen Sicheng, written by Chen Sicheng, Tan Liying, and Liu Shou, starring Jiang Long, Qi Xi, Yang Chaoyue, Wang Zichuan, Zhang Chi, Cao Bingkun, Huang Yi, and Ye Quanxi, with special appearances by Ni Dahong, Cai Ming, Tian Yu, Ding Jiali, and Cheng Taishen. Premieres May 1.

    Room 10 at the end of the hospital corridor is a special place. Although all its occupants are critically ill patients, laughter and lively commotion fill the room every day. The story begins on the day Zhang Xiaobing survives a failed suicide attempt by jumping from a building…

    The Vanished

    Written and directed by Cheng Weihao, starring Ryan Zheng and Liu Haocun, with a special appearance by Roy Chiu, alongside Li Chen and Jiang Yan. Premieres May 1.

    Adapted from the Douban Reading serialized novel Sea Anemone, the story follows Tang Yu after his son mysteriously disappears inside a stairwell. In a neighboring apartment building, a young woman living alone is assaulted in her sleep, while a gambling-addicted tenant named Yan Wu appears covered in blood, fabricating lies to conceal a corpse.

    The Devil Wears Prada 2

    Returning cast members include Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, Anne Hathaway, Stanley Tucci, Tracie Thoms, Tibor Feldman, and director David Frankel, with the screenplay once again written by Aline Brosh McKenna. Premieres April 30.

    Fashion magazine Runway faces an unprecedented survival crisis as Miranda and Andy reunite once more. The hierarchy of the fashion world is about to be reshuffled — former assistant Emily has risen to become an executive at a luxury conglomerate, while Andy has grown into a formidable professional in her own right.

    Once a Thief

    The 4K restored version of Once a Thief is scheduled for its first-ever mainland China theatrical release on May 3, 35 years after the film’s original debut. Directed by John Woo and starring Chow Yun-fat, Leslie Cheung, and Cherie Chung, the story follows orphaned thieves Joe, Jim, and Cherie, who are raised by their adoptive father to become master international thieves while navigating loyalty, romance, and danger.

    Front Teeth

    Directed and written by Li Xin, starring Zhang Yu and Chen Haoyu, alongside Zhou Zhengjie and Zhang Benyu, with special appearances by Lian Lian, Wang Hao, Guo Yue, Guo Yiqian, Renke, and Mao Tao. Premieres May 1.

    Li Weiyang is involved in a motorcycle accident that causes his girlfriend Shen Qing to lose two front teeth. Though he has no money, he is determined to get her the best replacement teeth possible. To raise the money, he becomes entangled in negotiations and conflicts with the driver responsible for the accident and the insurance company. The once modest but peaceful lives of both victim and perpetrator are shattered by this sudden incident.

  • Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    ☕️ TL;DR

    Recent recommendations: [TV] For All Mankind Season 5, [K-Drama] Yumi’s Cells Season 3, [K-Drama] Bloodhounds Season 2, [UK] The Young Offenders Season 5, [CN] Eight Thousand Miles of Clouds and Moon, [JP] Mysterious Footage Sent to TV Stations, [Film] 5 Centimeters per Second, [Film] The Sato Couple Story, [Anime] Awashima Hyakkei, [Anime] Ina Botan, Drunk Like a Lily, [Anime] Kirio Fan Club

    A few notable trailers: Mud Man first trailer, The Death of Robin Hood new trailer, Masters of the Universe: He-Man Rising new trailer, Spider-Man Noir new trailer, Cold War 1994 final trailer

    Some industry news: Minions & the Big Monster confirmed for release, The Sheep Detective Squad set for mainland China release on May 16, Star Wars: The Mandalorian & Grogu set for May 22 release in mainland China, Elden Ring live-action film scheduled for March 2028, Ultraman Origins release poster unveiled

    [TV] For All Mankind Season 5

    • Keywords: Drama / Sci-Fi
    • Also known as: For All Mankind Season 5
    • Runtime: ~60 minutes per episode × 10 episodes; Douban link

    For the stars of all mankind.

    @潘誉晗：Season five sets its timeline in the 2010s. More than a decade has passed, and the Mars base has become highly developed and well-established. “Happy Valley” has evolved into an extraterrestrial colony with thousands of residents. Meanwhile, authorities on Earth aim to impose stricter regulations and laws to exert tighter control over the red planet, naturally triggering dissatisfaction and protests among Martian residents. When a body is discovered in the Martian wilderness, a new crisis emerges for this growing colony.

    By season five, the story expands in scale, continuing its signature measured pacing as it gently unfolds a distant space narrative. The cross-generational arc, especially Ed’s storyline, is deeply moving. Still committed to guarding this land of belief, Ed feels the generational divide with younger people. On a political level, the tension between Earth and the Martian colony becomes especially compelling. Mars was once humanity’s dream destination, but as it gains the ability to stand independently, its relationship with its home planet grows increasingly complex and sensitive.

    [K-Drama] Yumi’s Cells Season 3

    • Keywords: Drama / Comedy / Romance
    • Also known as: 유미의세포들 시즌 3 / Yumi’s Cells 3
    • Runtime: ~60 minutes per episode × (ongoing); Douban link

    Cells left unused for too long will fall asleep~

    @潘誉晗：In season three, Yumi has become a popular novelist. Her love stories have gained countless fans, but her success also brings a crisis to her cells—her life has become too smooth and uneventful, causing her “cells” to fall into dormancy. That changes with the arrival of this season’s male lead, Shin Sun-rok. As Yumi’s editor, he is unusually calm and restrained for his age, with strict work principles that often clash with Yumi’s personality. Under this stimulation, the long-dormant cells begin to awaken one by one.

    As Korea’s first live-action and animation hybrid series, Yumi’s Cells continues its dual narrative style—Yumi’s real-life story alongside the perspective of her brain cells. The cell world remains the show’s biggest highlight. For audiences used to viewing emotions through a live-action lens, this innovative storytelling offers a direct way to step into the “cell village,” reflect through the cells’ actions and dialogue, and better understand their own inner needs.

    [K-Drama] Bloodhounds Season 2

    • Keywords: Drama / Action / Crime
    • Also known as: 사냥개들 2 / Bloodhounds Season 2
    • Runtime: 49–75 minutes per episode × 7 episodes
    • Where to watch: Netflix; Douban link

    Every punch is thrown to protect family and friends.

    @潘誉晗：The story continues from the previous season. After dismantling a loan shark syndicate, Kim Geon-woo and Hong Woo-jin pursue their boxing dreams. But life is far from peaceful. Geon-woo’s skills catch the attention of Baek Jeong, who runs an underground fighting league called “IKFC” with millions of online members. He profits by streaming matches irregularly. Geon-woo rejects the lucrative offer, but that refusal brings even greater danger. Baek Jeong, having already announced Geon-woo’s participation, resorts to illegal tactics—kidnapping his mother and harming those around him—to drag him into the abyss.

    Three years after its debut, the hit series returns with its second season. While the story still has some flaws, its action remains compelling enough to overshadow them. The underground fighting setting expands the scope of crime globally, raising the stakes and making the action sequences even more intense. The cage fights blend combat techniques seamlessly, delivering adrenaline-pumping scenes.

    [UK] The Young Offenders Season 5

    • Keywords: Comedy
    • Also known as: The Young Offenders Season 5
    • Runtime: ~30 minutes per episode × 6 episodes; Douban link

    Two idiots’ ridiculous teenage years.

    @潘誉晗：Jock escapes from prison and sneaks back into Ireland, calling Conor to pick him up. After waiting by the coast all day, Conor finally sees Jock appear—floating with a swim ring. The two lovable “young offenders” reunite once again.

    Based on the Irish comedy of the same name, The Young Offenders focuses on Conor and Jock, who have never been considered model youths. From high school to adulthood, they remain troublemakers—dirty uniforms, stolen bikes, ruined graduation ceremonies were just the beginning. Even after serving time in prison, they remain unreliable. They try new jobs and relationships, but still make a mess of life. But who says you have to become someone extraordinary to live a meaningful life?

    Conor and Jock are like two naive fools—arguing over trivial matters yet fiercely loyal to each other. They stumble through chaos and mischief, growing along the way, while audiences find laughter and comfort in their absurd adventures.

    [CN] Eight Thousand Miles of Clouds and Moon

    • Keywords: Drama / History / War
    • Also known as: The Chef and the General
    • Runtime: ~45 minutes per episode × 40 episodes
    • Where to watch: iQIYI / Migu Video; Douban link

    Even the smallest person has dignity.

    @潘誉晗：In 1937, the Battle of Shanghai breaks out. Nationalist officer Zhang Yunkui leads his troops in a heroic resistance, but his entire brigade is ultimately wiped out. In his final moments, Zhang ensures that a conscripted cook, Wan Fu, escapes and asks him to deliver news of his death to Nanjing. The message devastates Zhang’s family, especially his pregnant wife Yu Jiao. But just as despair sets in, they discover a newspaper photo showing Zhang alive in a hospital. Wan Fu, along with Yu Jiao and Zhang’s father, sets out for Shanghai to find him. Meanwhile, Zhang, who miraculously survives, is falsely accused of desertion by Nationalist authorities. After failing to clear his name, he joins the Communist Party and continues fighting for his country.

    Produced by the same team behind The Age of Awakening, the series premiered earlier this month on CCTV-8. While it also focuses on wartime stories, its greatest strength lies in its portrayal of a rich ensemble cast. It highlights ordinary people struggling amid war—from those driven by money, to those fighting for survival, and ultimately to those standing firm with dignity. Even the smallest figures shine with profound humanity.

    [JP] Mysterious Footage Sent to a TV Station

    • Keywords: Drama / Thriller / Horror
    • Also known as: 放送局に届いたある映像
    • Runtime: ~30 minutes per episode × 3 episodes; Douban link

    Do you want to become a complete person?

    @潘誉晗：A radio station employee, Ito, receives two letters, each containing a videotape along with a note that reads “Please play.” After watching them, he finds the content nearly identical—both tapes show human-shaped figures, one male and one female, with different body parts marked by red dotted lines. The unsettling background music carries a vaguely religious tone: “Let us strive to become complete humans.” Curious, Ito asks someone to analyze the audio. The producer tells him the music contains a special frequency—963 Hz, also known as the “God frequency.”

    Renowned Japanese filmmaker Iwasawa Hiroki delivers another standout work in the form of a mockumentary. Old videotapes mailed only on Sundays, a mysterious drifter with seemingly supernatural abilities, an orphanage hiding secrets, and a red-clad woman lurking in the footage—these elements may seem familiar, even cliché. Yet when combined with the director’s themes of “fragmentation” and “completeness,” they amplify the horror to an unsettling degree. The series is short and sharp, but leaves a lingering impact.

    [Film] 5 Centimeters per Second

    • Keywords: Anime adaptation / Drama / Romance
    • Also known as: 秒速5センチメートル / 5 Centimeters per Second
    • Runtime: 123 minutes; Douban link

    The speed at which cherry blossoms fall is 5 centimeters per second.

    @SHY：Takaki Toono and Akari Shinohara were close childhood friends who were separated after moving away, promising to reunite under the cherry blossom tree. Years later, Takaki is buried in work and his personal life is in disarray, while Akari has moved on with new encounters. As the day of their promise approaches, will their diverging paths ever cross again?

    Adapted from Makoto Shinkai’s early classic, director Okuyama Yoshiyuki—originally a photographer—brings a music video-like aesthetic to the feature film, creating breathtaking visual beauty. Hokuto Matsumura, who voiced Souta in Suzume, leads the cast, with careful casting and set design recreating iconic scenes from the animation, retelling this tender coming-of-age love story in a new way. When the remixed theme song One more time, One more chance plays, it is sure to stir familiar emotions among audiences.

    As the original animated version runs only 63 minutes, the live-action film expands the narrative. Screenwriter Suzuki Fumiko preserves the original three-part structure while adding well-integrated new elements. Compared to the animation’s subtle emotional tone, the live-action version presents feelings more directly. While it sacrifices some of the original’s intentional ambiguity, it establishes its own identity. As time buries past promises, we ultimately learn to treasure memories and move forward.

    [Film] The Sato Couple Story

    • Keywords: Drama
    • Also known as: 佐藤さんと佐藤さん
    • Runtime: 114 minutes; Douban link

    Does marriage really change nothing?

    @利兹与青鸟：At 22, Sato Sachi is lively and cheerful; at 23, Sato Tamotsu is serious and gentle. The two meet and fall in love at a university coffee club. What seems like a harmonious relationship takes an unexpected turn—Sachi, who studied law to support Tamotsu, passes the bar exam first and becomes a lawyer. Meanwhile, Tamotsu continues juggling part-time jobs and exam preparation, also taking on the role of a homemaker. This imbalance becomes a source of tension, leading to frequent arguments over trivial matters. Despite this, they happily marry after Sachi becomes pregnant, firmly believing that “marriage won’t change their relationship.” But will that belief hold true?

    The film builds its narrative from everyday details, piecing together a non-traditional marital story. The couple may quarrel over mundane issues or find joy in small moments, yet both are weighed down by life’s hardships and societal expectations. These grounded, relatable moments add warmth to the story. By juxtaposing Sachi’s divorce cases with the couple’s own relationship, the film explores conflicts that often have no clear resolution, leaving a lingering sense of melancholy. The pairing of Yukino Kishii and Hio Miyazawa is visually charming, and their performances bring additional depth to this familiar theme.

    [Anime] A Hundred Scenes of Awajima

    • Keywords: Manga adaptation / School / Youth
    • Also known as: 淡島百景 / A Hundred Scenes of Awajima
    • Runtime: 24 minutes per episode × 12 episodes, updated weekly on Thursdays
    • Where to watch: Bahamut Anime Crazy; Douban link

    All the stars that shine brightest burn out the fastest.

    @SHY：Awajima Opera School, known for producing countless stars, is a dream destination for many young girls. Preparatory student Tabata Wakana, dorm leader Takehara Kinue burdened by a friend’s expectations, elegant scholarship student Okabe Emi, and attention-seeking Ibuki Keiko—these vivid personalities are about to write their youth on this stage.

    Although set in an opera school, creator Takako Shimura focuses not on the glamorous spotlight, but on the undercurrents beneath it. There is no single protagonist—everyone gets their moment, portraying the bittersweet experiences both on and off stage. Interwoven perspectives piece together independent yet connected stories, forming a complex web of relationships that span decades, reflecting on the ripple effects of life choices and recalling an irreplaceable period of youth.

    Directed by Morio Asaka, known for works like Cardcaptor Sakura, NANA, and Chihayafuru, the series excels at capturing delicate emotions. His strong direction compensates for production limitations, rearranging the source material into a more cohesive narrative flow while highlighting contrasts between light and shadow. This gentle watercolor-like tragicomedy unfolds like a slow, contemplative prose collection—without grand spectacle, yet capable of leaving lasting ripples in the heart.

    [Anime] Botan Kamiina Fully Blossoms When Drunk

    • Keywords: Manga adaptation / Slice of life / Food
    • Also known as: 上伊那ぼたん、酔へる姿は百合の花 / Botan Kamiina Fully Blossoms When Drunk
    • Runtime: 24 minutes per episode × 12 episodes, updated weekly on Fridays
    • Where to watch: Bahamut Anime Crazy; Douban link

    A sip, a hiccup, and life turns into yuri.

    @SHY：First-year college student Botan Kamiina moves into the dormitory and, during a spring outing with her roommates, accidentally comes across dorm leader Ibuki Tonami drinking alone. Drawn to her demeanor, Botan—out of curiosity—tries alcohol for the first time. From then on, she begins exploring different drinks, and as the two become drinking companions, their relationship gradually evolves.

    Finally leaving high school behind, it’s only natural to try something a little more “adult.” Nicknamed “Liqun & Tsingtao,” the series unfolds in a tipsy, free-flowing atmosphere. The original creator, a programmer-turned-manga artist known as Hei, is a devoted fan of Encouragement of Climb and even contributed as an animator; this influence is evident in the character design and overall tone. Usually well-behaved, Botan reveals her true nature after drinking—her intentions aren’t entirely about the alcohol, leaving others flushed and flustered. Beneath the ambiguous atmosphere, the use of negative space creates a sense of airiness, capturing the subtle charm of everyday life.

    Founded last year with mono Girls, the new animation studio Soigne continues its strong momentum, delivering quality that feels celebration-worthy. The handheld DV-style opening captures fleeting moments with shaky camerawork, while the ending—featuring rotating vocal performances by the characters—is fully handled by Yoshinari Go. Episode 2, storyboarded by Yusuke Yamamoto with key animation solely by Yusuke Matsuo, is especially mesmerizing. This well-balanced brew feels like a strong drink—intense at first sip, yet leaving a lingering sweetness, and before you realize it, you’ve already had too much.

    [Anime] Kirio Fanclub

    • Keywords: Manga adaptation / Slice of life / Comedy
    • Also known as: 霧尾ファンクラブ / Kirio Fanclub
    • Runtime: 24 minutes per episode × 12 episodes, updated weekly on Thursdays
    • Where to watch: Bahamut Anime Crazy; Douban link

    Kirio, are you really just a prop in their game?

    @SHY：Best friends Aimi Miyoshi and Nami Someya both fall for their classmate Kirio and form a rather peculiar alliance. Despite having no real interaction with him, the two come up with increasingly absurd schemes to catch his attention—yet achieve little success. But is this grand, dramatic crush really as straightforward as it seems?

    Don’t be misled by the title—Kirio, the nominal center of attention, is mostly just a background figure, rarely even showing his face. The real focus lies in the comedic double act between the two female leads. Though they constantly talk about Kirio, their true intentions may be something else entirely. Their confessions, often omitting the object, might not even be directed at him.

    The awkwardness extends beyond the main duo—every character here is eccentric. One-sided affections connect into an N-pointed star, with true feelings remaining elusive, giving the story a surprising hint of mystery. Mixing elements of BG, BL, and GL into a chaotic blend, it creates a tangled web of relationships that feels impossible to untangle—making you want to dedicate a song of unrequited love to everyone involved.

    The anime adaptation preserves the original’s narrative tricks, delivering quirky humor that feels delightfully offbeat. Even with dialogue-heavy scenes, it never becomes dull, and each episode ends with a punchy twist. It may feel confusing at first, but once the groundwork is laid, the fun only grows. Whether these relationships are rivalry or romance is left for you to decide.

    More

    [Film] Case 137
    @利兹与青鸟：A 20-year-old man is critically injured after being struck in the head by a riot-control projectile during a protest on the streets of Paris. Stéphanie takes on the case, only to face distrust and hostility from both the public and fellow police officers. The film meticulously portrays the complexity of collaborative investigations, professional interrogations, and evidence verification, blending chaotic real-world footage with carefully crafted cinematic shots to balance realism and artistry. While reflecting on French social issues and the struggles of marginalized groups, it also introduces moments of warmth through a stray kitten rescued by the protagonist.

    [Film] Love Like Mine
    @利兹与青鸟：Recently awarded Best Actress at the 44th Hong Kong Film Awards, the film tells the little-known story of Amei, a woman with disabilities, and Akin, a sex worker. It focuses on Amei’s psychological growth and emotional journey—as she struggles against her mother’s overprotection and her own physical limitations, she seeks autonomy over her body and courageously pursues love. The characters are richly and delicately portrayed, though the pacing and editing feel somewhat conventional. The subject matter carries strong social relevance, continually questioning how society and able-bodied individuals should treat people with disabilities.

    [JP] Rosanjin’s Kitchen
    @利兹与青鸟：Kitaoji Rosanjin, renowned in Japan for his culinary mastery, lived in seclusion in his later years while maintaining his reputation. Arrogant and notoriously difficult to interview, he initially intimidates a cautious editor, yet is drawn to the straightforward personality of reporter Yoneko. He invites her to cook for the Prime Minister and later guides her into the mountains to search for premium ingredients. Told across four seasonal episodes, the series reveals a different side of Rosanjin—his artistry in cuisine and his aesthetic philosophy—captured through understated yet classically styled cinematography that highlights both exquisite food and the beauty of nature.

    [K-Drama] Undercover Miss Hong
    @潘誉晗：To investigate the financial flows of a well-known securities firm, 35-year-old financial regulator Hong Jinbao disguises herself as a 20-year-old recruit and infiltrates the company. Complications arise when she discovers her ex-boyfriend is now her new boss. As she carries out her mission, she must also keep her true identity hidden from him. Set in 1997, the story is steeped in retro charm, blending light comedy with plenty of humorous moments, while also delivering a touching portrayal of friendship between the female lead and her roommate.

    [TV] XO, Kitty Season 3
    @潘誉晗：As graduation approaches, the energetic Kitty has already planned her future—focusing on her studies, life, and her unresolved romantic tension with Min-ho. Unlike typical teen dramas, this series follows an American high school girl studying abroad in South Korea while pursuing love. The show devotes significant attention to her cultural exploration and adaptation, adding a layer of social depth beyond its romantic storyline.

    [UK] The Unchosen
    @潘誉晗：In a remote British countryside lies a secluded Christian community where Rosie lives with her husband and daughter, strictly adhering to its doctrines. Her life changes when her daughter nearly drowns, leading her to meet a mysterious man—who turns out to be a wanted criminal. His arrival shatters the community’s fragile order, prompting Rosie, who has been deeply conditioned by religious beliefs, to begin questioning herself and awakening to a new sense of identity. The series explores female self-growth and carries notable real-world significance.

    [JP] Rebirth: The Last Hero
    @Sholmes：Company president Neo resorts to ruthless tactics to force shop owners out in order to acquire their land. While visiting a shrine, he is pushed down the stairs and loses consciousness. Upon waking, he finds himself transported 14 years into the past, now living as the son of the shopping district’s chairman. As he navigates this new identity, he also searches for the truth behind his attempted murder. Beneath its mystery-driven narrative lies a reflection on human nature, contrasting the warmth of ordinary people with the arrogance of those in power.

    [Anime] One-Room Manga Café Daily Life
    @SHY：Meiko Morita, a girl from the countryside, seizes a rare opportunity to transfer to a prestigious girls’ school in Tokyo and moves into a student-run manga café. Mistaken for a manga artist of the same name, she teams up with her eccentric roommates to save the struggling café, leading to a lively and chaotic daily life. A classic Kirara-style four-panel manga adaptation, the series may feel somewhat formulaic in its characters and story, but its high concentration of “moe” charm and Easter eggs referencing other works from the same publisher make up for it—perfect for a light and wholesome viewing experience.

    📅 This Week’s New Trailers

    Clayface First Trailer

    On April 23, DC’s new film Clayface released its first trailer and is set to premiere in North America on October 23. Directed by James Watkins, and starring Tom Rhys Harries, Naomi Ackie, and Max Minghella, the story follows a B-movie actor who injects himself with a substance to maintain his performance, only to have his face and body transform into a walking mass of clay. Source

    The Death of Robin Hood New Trailer

    On April 22, A24 released a new trailer for The Death of Robin Hood, set to hit North American theaters on June 19. Directed by Kurt Sutter, and starring Hugh Jackman, Jodie Comer, and Bill Skarsgård, the film follows a war-weary, solitary Robin Hood who is gravely injured and falls into the hands of a mysterious woman who offers him a chance at redemption. Source

    Masters of the Universe: He-Man Rising New Trailer

    On April 23, Masters of the Universe: He-Man Rising released a new trailer and will premiere in North America on June 5. Directed by Travis Knight and starring Nicholas Galitzine, the story follows a long-forgotten prince who awakens under the call of a mysterious sword and must become the legendary He-Man to save both his former homeland and the present world. Source

    Spider-Man Noir New Trailer

    On April 23, the series Spider-Man Noir released a new trailer and will premiere on Prime Video on May 27, available in both black-and-white and color versions. Starring Nicolas Cage, the story focuses on an aging, down-on-his-luck private detective in 1930s New York, who is also the city’s only superhero, forced to confront his past. Source

    Cold War 1994 Final Trailer

    On April 22, the film Cold War 1994 released its final “power struggle” trailer and will premiere on May 1. Directed by Sunny Luk, and starring 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, the story is set on the eve of Hong Kong’s 1997 handover, where every character must face a final choice amid a major power reshuffle. Source

    More

    The TV anime Dragon Ball Super: Beerus released a “super battle” trailer. This enhanced version of Dragon Ball Super tells the story of the God of Destruction Beerus awakening and descending upon Earth, leading to a universe-shaking battle with Goku. The ending also hints at Frieza’s revival. The animation reconstructs the storyline and significantly redraws the visuals. It is set to air in Fall 2026. Source

    The first trailer for Evil Dead 6: Burning has been released. Directed by Sébastien Vaniček (Infested) and co-written with Florent Bernard and Sam Raimi, the film stars Souheila Yacoub, Hunter Doohan, Luciane Buchanan, Tandi Wright, and Viktor Ndukwe. It is scheduled for release in North America on July 10. Source

    The Taiwanese series Smart Town released its first trailer. Directed by Hsieh Chun-yi and starring Gigi Leung, Chen Yan-fei, and others, it builds a new narrative world based on multiple short stories by Junji Ito, including Tomie, Souichi’s Convenient Curse, Slug Girl, The Hanging Balloons, and Fragments of Horror. The series will premiere on Netflix in 2026. Source

    The first teaser for Silo Season 3 has been released. Starring Rebecca Ferguson and directed again by Michael Dinner, the series is adapted from Hugh Howey’s bestselling sci-fi novels. The story continues from Season 2, where Juliette survives but loses her memory, now facing new threats. It will premiere on Apple TV+ on July 3.

    The film Secret Mission has announced its release date. Written and produced by Wang Wei and directed by Chung Siu-hung, it stars Celina Jade and Shawn Yue, with special appearances by Vivian Chow, and also features Jiang Luxia and Qu Jingjing. The film tells the story of a female counter-terrorism special operations unit and is set to release on June 19.

    📽 Weekly Film & TV News Roundup

    Minions & the Big Monster Confirmed for China Release

    On April 23, the animated film Minions & the Big Monster was officially confirmed for release in mainland China, alongside a trailer and poster, with the release date yet to be announced. Directed by Pierre Coffin and written by Brian Lynch, produced by Illumination Entertainment, the story follows the mischievous Minions as they set out to create their dream monster movie—only to accidentally gather a lineup of real monsters, leading to chaotic battles. Source

    The Sheep Detective Squad Set for May 16 China Release

    On April 24, the film The Sheep Detective Squad released a China mainland trailer and poster, announcing its release on May 16. Directed by Kyle Balda (Minions series), the story features Hugh Jackman as a mysteriously murdered shepherd. A group of fluffy sheep, inspired by his detective stories, begin investigating clues, searching for the real culprit in a comedic mystery adventure. Source

    Star Wars: The Mandalorian & Grogu Set for May 22 China Release

    On April 20, Star Wars: The Mandalorian & Grogu released its China mainland trailer and poster, confirming a May 22 release date, day-and-date with North America. Directed by Jon Favreau and starring Pedro Pascal, Jeremy Allen White, Sigourney Weaver, and Martin Scorsese, the galaxy’s coolest bounty hunter and cutest Force user set out on a new journey. Source

    Elden Ring Live-Action Film Set for March 2028 Release

    On April 20, the live-action adaptation of Elden Ring was scheduled for release in North America on March 3, 2028, alongside the announcement of its main cast. Directed by Alex Garland and starring Kit Connor, Ben Whishaw, Cailee Spaeny, Tom Burke, Havana Rose Liu, Sonoya Mizuno, and Jonathan Pryce, the film is co-produced by A24 and Bandai Namco. Source

    Ultraman Origins Release Poster Announced

    On April 21, the documentary Ultraman Origins, created to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Ultraman series, announced its theatrical release in Japan on July 3. Planned by Hirokazu Kore-eda, the film features contributions from leading filmmakers and creators including Guillermo del Toro, Hideo Kojima, Hideaki Anno, and Shinji Higuchi, each offering unique perspectives to explore the question: “What exactly is Ultraman?”

  • Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    ☕️ TL;DR

    Recent recommendations: [US] Hacks Season 5 / Final Season, [US] Euphoria Season 3 / Final Season, [US] Testimony Season 1, [US] Paradise Crime Season 2, [UK] Little Prophet, [US] Beef Season 2, [Anime] Witch Hat Atelier, [Anime] Akane-banashi, [Reality] Lee Seo-jin’s Daladara

    A few notable trailers: Godzilla -0.0 first trailer, Street Fighter official trailer, The Last Walker first trailer, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping official trailer, new trailer for The Collective

    Some industry news: Silent Friend set for mainland China release on April 25, Memento confirmed for import, Toy Story 5 confirmed for import, Once a Thief set for mainland China release on May 3, Call of Duty film scheduled for release in June 2028

    For previous recommendations, click here or check the tag #What to Watch at the end of the article; for more themed watchlists, click here. If you’re interested in deeper film and TV content, feel free to follow our spin-off column “What to Watch Café.” Suggestions are always welcome in the comments—thank you for your continued support.

    [US] Hacks Season 5 / Final Season

    • Keywords: Drama / Comedy
    • Also known as: Hacks Season 5
    • Runtime: ~30 minutes per episode × 10 episodes; Douban link

    I’m not going to die.

    @潘誉晗: A false TMZ report leads Deborah’s fans to gather outside her house in mourning. Just then, Deborah appears—radiant and full of life: “I’m still alive!” But not long after returning to Las Vegas, she receives devastating news: due to a previously signed non-compete agreement, she is prohibited from performing stand-up comedy publicly. Deborah takes it in stride—then she’ll just compete for an Emmy, Oscar, Grammy, or Tony instead. But when she discovers that streaming platforms have removed her past shows, she becomes furious. She realizes she must step back on stage again—not for fame or fortune, but for her commitment and responsibility to the craft of comedy.

    Having won countless Emmys and earned rave reviews every season, Hacks now arrives at its final chapter. While fans may feel reluctant to say goodbye, ending on a high note while maintaining the consistently strong quality of the previous four seasons makes this farewell all the more commendable. As a conclusion, we also see a softer side of Deborah—but even her warmth comes wrapped in a sharp edge. When it comes to her career, she remains a fierce fighter.

    [US] Euphoria Season 3 / Final Season

    • Keywords: Drama
    • Also known as: Euphoria Season 3
    • Runtime: ~60 minutes per episode × 8 episodes; Douban link

    A chaotic youth is finally coming to an end.

    @潘誉晗: This season is set five years after Season 2, and everyone finds themselves in very different circumstances. To repay her debts, Rue becomes a drug mule, traveling between the U.S. and Mexico. In a moment of contrast, during one trip she encounters a Christian family, which sparks in her a sudden sense that she should find faith. Meanwhile in New York, Jules leverages her beauty to navigate among wealthy elites. Maddy works as a professional agent in Hollywood—glamorous on the surface, but ultimately just another worker. And to create a romantic wedding for herself and Nate, Cassie turns to selling suggestive content on her fan page.

    Long delayed, Euphoria Season 3 also serves as the series finale, maintaining its signature high-quality cinematography and production. The significant time jump proves to be a bold yet successful choice, not only making the actors’ aging feel more natural but also allowing the story to evolve and explore deeper themes—once Gen Z youth graduate from college, they are finally forced to confront a reality where they can no longer live as recklessly as high schoolers.

    [US] The Testaments Season 1

    • Keywords: Drama / Thriller
    • Also known as: The Testaments Season 1
    • Runtime: ~40 minutes per episode × 10 episodes
    • Where to watch: Hulu; Douban link

    A rare, untouchable flower—or a body to be priced and traded.

    @利兹与青鸟: As a sequel to The Handmaid’s Tale, this series is produced by the same team and adapted from Margaret Atwood’s novel. It continues the established setting: with global fertility rates plummeting, the theocratic regime of Gilead has seized control of much of the United States, stripping women of all rights and property. The resistance group Mayday remains active on the frontlines, with June, the protagonist of the original series, among its members.

    Agnes is the daughter of a high-ranking commander, being groomed as a future commander’s wife, studying art, music, embroidery, etiquette, and domestic skills at Aunt Lydia’s school. The punishments there are harsh—smiling at boys results in one’s mouth being taped shut, or being forced to stand holding a sign labeled “slut.” Daisy, a convert from Toronto, is also secretly tasked with a Mayday mission and is assigned to Agnes as her guide.

    The series focuses on the education and lives of a younger generation of girls. The pacing is measured, unfolding the world through narration, while its restrained yet impactful visual language conveys the oppressive atmosphere of a totalitarian society—no one is spared. By juxtaposing Gilead with the modern world of Toronto, the sense of horror becomes even more deeply felt. As the bond between Daisy and Agnes grows, it leaves viewers anticipating how the two might reshape the future.

    [UK] Small Prophets

    • Keywords: Drama / Comedy
    • Also known as: Small Prophets
    • Runtime: ~30 minutes per episode × 6 episodes; Douban link

    Let’s raise a little prophet at home.

    @潘誉晗: Seven years ago, on Christmas, Mike’s girlfriend Clea mysteriously disappeared. Since then, life has felt as if it’s been put on pause—Mike remains trapped in her absence, unable to move forward. After work each day, he visits his father at a nursing home, then returns home to sit alone in a living room unchanged for seven years, quietly tending to his wounds.

    Until one day, his father tells him about a mysterious and ancient alchemical recipe—follow it, and you can cultivate a small prophet called a “Homunculus,” a creature that lives in a glass bottle of water, knows everything, and can foresee the future. His father suggests Mike try creating one, so he can finally learn what happened to Clea.

    Strange, yet oddly charming. This six-episode fantasy miniseries feels like a fairy tale for adults, portraying a clumsy, earnest, and devout middle-aged man in a uniquely tender way. For seven years, Mike has drifted aimlessly, and while the idea of raising a prophet seems absurd, it offers him a chance to rediscover meaning in a life weighed down by sorrow.

    [US] Paradise Season 2

    • Keywords: Drama / Action / Thriller
    • Also known as: Paradise Season 2
    • Runtime: ~60 minutes per episode × 8 episodes
    • Where to watch: Hulu; Douban link

    Compared to Season 1, this season is a major leap forward.

    @潘誉晗: After dropping out of medical school and feeling lost about her future, Annie becomes a tour guide at Elvis Presley’s former home. The job gives her a sense of purpose and helps her rediscover herself—until disaster strikes. She survives alone in the mansion for 689 days, until a group of strangers arrives, led by a young man named Link. On the night before they part, the two share an intimate encounter, after which Link leaves, and Annie later discovers she is pregnant. Months later, determined to find him, Annie sets out on a journey and meets Xavier, who has just escaped the Paradise bunker by plane after learning that his wife may still be alive.

    As a post-apocalyptic political thriller, Paradise delivers a surprisingly strong sequel. Moving beyond the bunker setting, this season expands spatially to the surface world and temporally through flashbacks. The multi-narrative, multi-timeline structure enriches the story, while the introduction of new characters offers fresh perspectives on survival in a collapsing world. To believe in humanity again, to keep living bravely—humans are far stronger than we imagine.

    [US] Beef Season 2

    • Keywords: Drama / Comedy
    • Also known as: Beef Season 2
    • Runtime: ~30 minutes per episode × 8 episodes
    • Where to watch: Netflix; Douban link

    Without its original flavor, is it still Beef? 🙂↔️

    @利兹与青鸟: Middle-class couple Josh and Lindsay manage and renovate a golf club, seemingly stepping into high society. Yet their marriage is already beyond repair, erupting into a fierce argument—even physical conflict—on the night of a charity event. This scene is witnessed and recorded by Ashley and Austin, a young couple working at the club. Meanwhile, Korean tycoon Mr. Park arrives to acquire the club but is dissatisfied with its design. Ashley, suffering from an ovarian cyst that could threaten her life, decides to blackmail Josh and Lindsay; Mr. Park, too, is dealing with a scandal involving his second husband. Under mounting pressures, these three couples from different social classes spiral into chaos.

    The sequel to Beef features an entirely new cast and storyline. While the ensemble is impressive, some character motivations feel underdeveloped. More disappointingly, the season abandons the core themes of the first—East Asian culture and the immigrant experience—losing the cathartic tension of suppressed emotions exploding into chaos. By shifting toward a more conventional American value system, it increasingly resembles The White Lotus, exposing the absurdity of relationships and the parasitic nature of class structures.

    [Anime] Witch Hat Atelier

    • Keywords: Manga adaptation / Fantasy / Adventure
    • Also known as: とんがり帽子のアトリエ / Witch Hat Atelier
    • Runtime: 24 minutes per episode × 13 episodes, updated weekly on Mondays
    • Where to watch: Netflix; Douban link

    Are witches born, or made?

    @SHY: Coco, a village girl who dreams of becoming a witch, has long given up on her unrealistic aspirations—until she accidentally witnesses the wizard Qifrey casting magic. Attempting to imitate what she saw, Coco unknowingly uses forbidden magic, causing a tragedy. In order to find a way to lift the curse, she becomes Qifrey’s apprentice and begins her journey into the world of magic.

    Original creator Kamome Shirahama graduated from Tokyo University of the Arts and has worked as an illustrator with Marvel, DC, and Star Wars. Her artistic skill and aesthetic are exceptional. The manga employs diverse materials and intricately designed decorative elements, creating a world that feels like a carved engraving brought to life. Its setting is deeply tied to the act of drawing, weaving in subtle reflections of reality while wrapping heavier themes in a warm coming-of-age story, maintaining a gentle and healing tone.

    The anime adaptation largely inherits the production team behind Summer Time Rendering, with a significantly extended production schedule compared to typical seasonal anime, striving to faithfully capture the essence of the original work. Directed by Ayumu Watanabe and written by Hiroshi Seko, with music by former FromSoftware composer Yuka Kitamura, the series blends flowing light and shadow with elegant music, dazzling animation, and pop-up book-style transitions. The result feels like a living picture book—every frame a visual delight.

    [Anime] Akane-banashi

    • Keywords: Manga adaptation / Drama / Inspirational
    • Also known as: あかね噺 / Akane-banashi
    • Runtime: 25 minutes per episode × episode count TBD, updated weekly on Saturdays
    • Where to watch: Bahamut Anime / Netflix; Douban link

    With nothing but herself, she aims for the very top.

    @SHY: Akane Sakurasaki, who has always admired her rakugo performer father, witnesses him being expelled from the Arakawa school by its master, Issho Arakawa. Determined to prove her father’s worth, Akane secretly apprentices under Issho’s mentor, Shiguma Arakawa, beginning her hidden training. Six years later, now a high school student, Akane finally steps onto the stage, striving toward the pinnacle of the rakugo world—the rank of shin’uchi.

    While manga centered on rakugo aren’t particularly rare, being serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump and adapted into anime is a first. Original creator Yuki Suenaga skillfully applies shonen storytelling techniques, transforming what might seem like a niche art into a dynamic, sports-like narrative of perseverance and breakthrough. In this story, rakugo is not a replaceable concept—it is deeply intertwined with the characters and narrative, placing the tension between tradition and innovation front and center, while exploring ways to attract a new generation of audiences.

    These same challenges carry over into the anime adaptation. The production team adopts a steady, methodical approach, striving to make this niche subject accessible to a wider audience. Director Ayumu Watanabe, working across multiple projects this season, maintains a tightly controlled narrative rhythm, amplifying the tension of stage performances through contrasts between motion and stillness. Informative segments at the end of each episode further highlight the charm of rakugo. This is a work that focuses on telling its story sincerely—and it just might win you over.

    [Reality] Lee Seo-jin’s Daladara

    • Keywords: Reality / Travel
    • Also known as: Ready or Not: Texas / Let’s Go: Lee Seo-jin’s Texas
    • Runtime: ~33 minutes per episode × 6 episodes
    • Where to watch: Netflix; Douban link

    Travel should be as free as you feel~

    @潘誉晗: Following the highly acclaimed Lee Seo-jin’s New York New York, producer Na Young-seok teams up once again with Lee Seo-jin for a spontaneous journey through Texas. Much like the title’s “Daladara” (a Korean term implying something unique), this trip with old friends feels distinctly different. Having once lived in the U.S. and fluent in English, Lee Seo-jin—who dreams of retiring in Texas—takes on the role of guide, forming a small, personalized travel group entirely on his own terms.

    There’s no scripted itinerary, no typical tourist hotspots. Instead, they drink beer during the day, browse through different shops, and visit ballparks and shooting ranges. At the same time, viewers never quite know what will happen next. For example, just forty minutes after landing in Texas, Lee Seo-jin realizes he left behind his bag—with his ID, passport, and wallet—at the airport. Yet it is precisely this rejection of traditional travel formats that makes the show feel like a casually recorded vlog with friends, creating a relaxed and easygoing viewing experience.

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    [Spain] Tuesday Murder Rules @潘誉晗: Although they had to switch hotels at the last minute, a group of travelers from diverse backgrounds arrives in Lisbon expecting a pleasant trip. Unexpectedly, on the second day, one of them is found dead in the hotel bathtub. This light mystery-comedy perfectly balances murder and humor. With its brisk pacing, it’s an easy watch—enjoy the beautiful city scenery while following the protagonists as they uncover the truth.

    [China] Family Court @潘誉晗: Guided by the Supreme People’s Court of China, this series follows young judge Shen Xieyi as she transfers from criminal court to family court, working alongside colleagues to resolve domestic disputes. Though family matters may seem small, they are never trivial. Based on real cases, the stories gain dramatic appeal through adaptation. Within the law and human emotion alike, we see both the compassion of family court judges and the challenges faced by grassroots judicial workers.

    [Japan] The Solitary Gourmet Season 11 @利兹与青鸟: Goro Inogashira travels to Kanagawa, wandering in search of food—grilled mackerel and pork udon in a family restaurant, then Indian cuisine in Tokyo’s Roppongi, savoring tandoori chicken and lamb masala curry. After all, a full stomach is essential to keep working! Following Goro’s footsteps, enjoying food freely and happily, brings a sense of ease and comfort—and a serious appetite. The series still includes the original author Masayuki Kusumi’s food explorations at the end, maintaining its signature style even in Season 11—perfect for mealtime viewing.

    [Film] The Bomb @SHY: A man detained for drunken disorderly conduct is questioned by police. What seems like a routine case takes a turn when he claims to possess precognitive abilities, revealing cryptic clues that unravel a series of bombings. Adapted from a novel, the film blends classic and social mystery elements, centering on psychological battles between police and criminal, unraveling a deadly word game filled with twists. The tense atmosphere never lets up, making it a strong low-budget crime film.

    [Film] Days on the Journey @利兹与青鸟: This new film by Sho Miyake adapts Yoshiharu Tsuge’s manga. The first half follows a story within a screenplay—two young people meet on a beach, engage in aimless conversations, swim in a storm, and wander from afternoon into night. The second half returns to reality: after a screening, a struggling screenwriter sets out on a trip, only to encounter unexpected experiences due to a lack of reservations. With beautiful cinematography—blue seas, white snow—it feels fresh and natural, yet tinged with subtle melancholy and mystery, like a prose poem exploring encounters and existential loneliness.

    [US] The Sibling Fixers @潘誉晗: To fulfill their grandmother’s dying wish, siblings Nick and Morgan steal a necklace. Thinking they’ve done their duty, they soon discover the necklace is tied to organized crime. Nick, a gay pastor, and Morgan, a teacher, are dragged into gang conflicts and end up doing odd jobs for them. Netflix’s latest crime comedy tells the absurd yet heartfelt story of two underachieving siblings trying to protect their family.

    [Anime] Dandelion @SHY: Tetsuo Tanba and Misaki Kurogane, members of the Angel Association’s escort department, guide lost souls to the afterlife—but their work is constantly plagued by mishaps. Adapted from Hideaki Sorachi’s debut short story, the series carries a strong Gintama-like tone in its character design and humor, weaving chaotic daily antics with unexpected twists. Due to the limited length of the original work, only the first episode is adapted, with subsequent episodes being original stories. While the quality dips somewhat, it still maintains the overall tone and remains a decent watch as a substitute fix.

    📅 Trailers This Week

    Godzilla -0.0 First Trailer

    On April 15, the film Godzilla -0.0 released its first trailer. It is set to premiere in Japan on November 3 and in North America on November 6. Takashi Yamazaki returns as director, screenwriter, and VFX supervisor, with Ryunosuke Kamiki and Minami Hamabe reprising their roles. The story unfolds two years after the life-and-death battle in Godzilla -1.0, depicting a new peak of despair in the world. Source

    Street Fighter Official Trailer

    On April 16, the film Street Fighter released its official trailer and is scheduled to premiere in North America on October 16. Under the call of a global fighting tournament, Andrew Koji, Noah Centineo, Callina Liang, Cody Rhodes, David Dastmalchian, and Jason Momoa take on the roles of iconic fighters such as Ryu, Ken, Chun-Li, Guile, Bison, and Blanka. Source

    The Last Walker First Trailer

    On April 17, the film The Last Walker released its first trailer and is set to premiere in North America on August 28. Directed by legendary filmmaker Ridley Scott, the cast includes Jacob Elordi, Josh Brolin, Margaret Qualley, Guy Pearce, and Benedict Wong. In a world that no longer exists, only an endless cycle remains: “wake, guard, survive.” Source

    The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping Official Trailer

    On April 13, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping released its official trailer and will premiere in North America on November 20. Directed by Francis Lawrence, the film stars Joseph Zada, Whitney Peak, Elle Fanning, and Ralph Fiennes. Set 24 years before the main series during the 50th Hunger Games, the story centers on a 16-year-old Haymitch. Source

    The Collective New Trailer

    On April 15, Yeon Sang-ho, director of Train to Busan, released a new international trailer for his zombie-themed film The Collective. Starring Jun Ji-hyun, Koo Kyo-hwan, Ji Chang-wook, Shin Hyun-been, Kim Shin-rok, and Go Soo, the story takes place in a sealed building where survivors infected by a mysterious outbreak must fight evolving creatures in a desperate struggle. The film is scheduled to premiere in South Korea on May 21.

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    One Man and One Woman Release Date Trailer: Directed by Guan Hu, with Liang Jing as executive producer and Liu Zhenyun as chief planner, starring Huang Bo and Ni Ni. A man trapped in a midlife crisis and a woman struggling with multiple identities become neighbors separated by a wall, unexpectedly witnessing each other’s hardships. Set for release on May 16. Source

    Forest Within “Fatal Temptation” Trailer: Written and directed by Zheng Zhi in his directorial debut, adapted from his novel of the same name. Starring Yu Hewei, Gao Yuanyuan, Han Geng, and Zhang Tian’ai, with Qiao Shan and Xia Zhiguang, the story unfolds in Northeast China, following intertwined fates of two families across three generations over forty years. Set for release on May 1. Source

    Insidious 6 First Trailer: Titled Insidious: Out of the Further, produced by James Wan and starring Amelia Eve, directed and written by Jacob Chase (Come Play). The film follows a young mother who can enter “The Further,” as the boundary between the spirit world and reality begins to blur. Scheduled for release in North America on August 21 this year.

    📽 Film & TV News Weekly

    Silent Friend Set for Mainland China Release on April 25

    On April 14, the film Silent Friend released its mainland China release date trailer and poster, confirming its premiere on April 25. Directed by Ildikó Enyedi and starring Tony Leung Chiu-wai, with Léa Seydoux, Luna Wedler, and Sylvester Groth among the cast, the film tells three stories spanning one hundred years centered around a single tree. It was previously selected for the main competition at last year’s Venice Film Festival. Source

    Memento Confirmed for Mainland China Release

    On April 14, the newly restored version of Memento was confirmed for release in mainland China, along with a trailer and poster. The release date is yet to be announced. Directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Guy Pearce, Carrie-Anne Moss, and Joe Pantoliano, the film follows a man with memory loss in a fragmented tale of revenge—who is the real culprit? The clues lie within the broken pieces of memory. Source

    Toy Story 5 Confirmed for Mainland China Release

    On April 16, Pixar’s animated film Toy Story 5 was confirmed for release in mainland China, with the release date yet to be announced. Directed by Andrew Stanton and McKenna Harris, and featuring voice performances by Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, and Joan Cusack, the film explores a new era of toys, where electronic devices are set to “rewrite” childhood—setting the stage for a clash between changing times and enduring companionship. Source

    Once a Thief Set for Mainland China Release on May 3

    On April 16, the 4K restored version of Once a Thief was scheduled for release in mainland China on May 3, marking its first theatrical screening in the region 35 years after its original release. Directed by John Woo and starring Chow Yun-fat, Leslie Cheung, and Cherie Chung, the film follows three orphans—Joe, Jim, and Cherie—trained by their adoptive father to become international thieves, blending action, loyalty, and romance. Source

    Call of Duty Film Set for June 2028 Release

    Activision has confirmed that a Call of Duty film adaptation is currently in production, with a scheduled release date of June 30, 2028. The project, based on the popular shooter game franchise, was first revealed last year. It will be produced by Taylor Sheridan and Peter Berg, who will also co-write the script, with Berg directing.

    Sheridan and Berg have previously worked on projects such as Friday Night Lights and Yellowstone. No cast has been announced yet, and it remains unclear which era of the game series the film will depict. The project is still in the early stages of development. Source

  • Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    ☕️ TL;DR

    Recent highlights: [US Series] The Boys Season 5 / Final Season, [Film] Me, Permission, [Chinese Series] Dangerous Liaisons, [Taiwanese Series] The Zoo, [US Series] Your Honor Season 2, [Film] Where the Wind Comes From, [Animation] Messenger of the Underworld, [Animation] Moxu, [Animation] Dorohedoro Season 2, [Animation] Invincible Season 4, [Reality Show] Wind Direction Go Season 2

    Notable trailers: The Devil Wears Prada 2 Final Trailer, Michael Jackson: The Journey of a Legend Final Trailer, Mortal Kombat 2 New Trailer, Rick and Morty Season 9 Official Trailer, Black Castle Official Trailer

    Industry updates: Three new preview clips for One Piece-related projects, Burning Biva set for April 28 release, Emotional Value scheduled for April 17 in mainland China, Confession Out of Time set for May 20 release, Dark Matter Season 2 release date announced

    [US Series] The Boys Season 5 / Final Season

    • Keywords: Drama / Comedy / Action / Sci-Fi / Crime
    • Also known as: The Boys Season 5
    • Length: ~60 minutes per episode × 8 episodes; Douban link

    Not recommended to play out loud in front of your parents.

    @潘誉晗: At Vought’s shareholder meeting, Homelander is delivering a fiery speech when, unexpectedly, the big screen behind him starts playing footage from years ago—showing how he and Maeve refused to save passengers on a crashing plane. The truth shocks everyone in the audience. As it turns out, Starlight had already infiltrated the venue. Just as Homelander, exposed and furious, is about to slaughter everyone present, he is stopped by Sister Sage, who quickly spins the incident as “AI-generated” to contain the fallout. Enraged, Homelander uses Hughie’s execution as bait to lure his enemies out. When that plan fails, he decides to revive the frozen Soldier Boy.

    The Boys returns with its fifth season, which also serves as the series finale. The first two episodes are packed with high-intensity moments from start to finish—especially A-Train’s arc, which forms a perfectly executed cyclical payoff, reminding us that even heroes can stand in the dark. Although only two episodes have aired so far, it’s clear that the final season not only faithfully continues the show’s signature style—with its outrageous, no-holds-barred content—but also delivers unpredictable yet logical storytelling. You can safely dive in and enjoy the ride.

    [Film] Me, Permission

    • Keywords: Drama / Comedy
    • Also known as: It’s OK
    • Length: ~118 minutes
    • Where to watch: Now in theaters; Douban link

    We need to give ourselves permission to live as who we truly are.

    @潘誉晗: Xu Ke, a primary school teacher, needs surgery due to uterine polyps. However, upon learning that she is single, unmarried, and has no sexual experience, her gynecologist insists on parental consent—fearing potential disputes over her hymen. Unfortunately, Xu Ke’s mother, Hu Chunrong, is deeply traditional and strongly opposes the procedure once she hears about it.

    Xu Ke is a new-generation woman with a strong sense of autonomy and self-acceptance, yet she constantly faces rejection from society—including from her own mother. At a time when her health should clearly come first, Hu Chunrong still believes Xu Ke shouldn’t undergo surgery that might “damage” her hymen—even though it is already not intact—and even suggests, “Why don’t you just get married first?”

    Using a uterine polyp surgery as its entry point, this film stands out as an excellent female-centered story. It is light, brisk, yet leaves a lasting emotional resonance. A sharp, independent daughter meets a menopausal mother—their constant bickering and stumbling lead to a quiet transformation in their relationship. Xu Ke teaches her mother to accept new ideas, while Hu Chunrong, guided by her daughter, learns to accept herself.

    [Chinese Series] Dangerous Liaisons

    • Keywords: Drama / Suspense
    • Length: ~45 minutes per episode × 22 episodes
    • Where to watch: iQIYI; Douban link

    What’s truly fatal is surrendering to the wound.

    @利兹与青鸟: Yan Ling, a single mother, is a university lecturer and homeroom teacher—decisive, resilient, and kind-hearted. After her close friend Jian Leilei’s suicide deals her a heavy emotional blow, she begins investigating the truth behind the death and the suspicious boyfriend involved. At the same time, she exhausts herself helping girls she barely knows with legal cases, even giving up her promotion opportunity to support her student Li Changning’s mental health. Under mounting pressure, she begins to develop psychosomatic symptoms. At her lowest point, psychiatrist Luo Liang gradually enters her life—but this seemingly gentle, supportive man turns out to be the beginning of a nightmare.

    Using Jian Leilei’s suicide as the entry point, the series hooks viewers with a central mystery while branching into multiple cases involving relationships between men and women. The “devils” slowly reveal themselves: a wealthy college playboy manipulating girls’ emotions, a female scammer faking domestic abuse to gain money, a highly organized fraud ring… They carefully select their victims, leading them into traps without a trace. Among them, Luo Liang hides the deepest. The series presents a wide range of emotional manipulation, deception, and disguise, while also analyzing victims’ backgrounds and psychological struggles, and exploring how to confront oneself, resist PUA, and move forward bravely. Many details are worth savoring, and it carries strong cautionary value.

    [Taiwanese Series] The Zoo

    • Keywords: Drama
    • Also known as: The Zoo
    • Length: ~45 minutes per episode × 10 episodes; Douban link

    I’m heading to the zoo~

    @潘誉晗: Zhu Xinkui, who has thrived in the advertising industry for years, has always dreamed of one day working at her company’s New York office. But when her company is acquired by a rival, her new boss mocks her as “shredded pork” and claims that “where there’s shredded pork, it doesn’t belong on the table.” Determined to reclaim her career peak and stage a comeback, she decides to win the bid for the Shoushan Zoo project—only to learn that the condition is to first become an intern zookeeper.

    From a fashionable urban professional in Taipei to a caretaker in a remote zoo in Kaohsiung, Zhu Xinkui must tie up her flowing curls, ditch her high heels, and step into animal enclosures to feed and care for them. The stark contrast catches her off guard on day one, but her strong adaptability quickly helps her keep up with the experienced caretakers. She even leverages her advertising skills to rebrand injured animals as a “hero squad,” breathing new life into the zoo.

    With its gentle pacing and adorable animals, the series is as healing as it is heartwarming.

    [US Series] Your Friends and Neighbors Season 2

    • Keywords: Drama / Crime
    • Also known as: Your Friends and Neighbors Season 2
    • Length: ~45 minutes per episode × 11 episodes; Douban link

    Be a good neighbor—like the kind who sneaks next door at midnight to steal cash~

    @潘誉晗: Picking up where we left off, after clearing himself of murder charges, Cooper seems to have unlocked something within—his entire outlook on life changes. Not only does he reject his former company’s offer to rehire him, he even “pays a visit” to his ex-boss’s house and robs it clean. Fast forward a year, and Cooper is now living quite comfortably. He rents an office as his studio, appearing to be an ordinary white-collar worker by day, while continuing his nightly heists with his partner Elena. Meanwhile, a mysterious new neighbor named Owen moves into the community, casually purchasing a luxury mansion with $20 million in cash. Handsome and enigmatic, what secrets might he be hiding?

    Often described as a “chronicle of middle-class collapse,” the series returns with its original cast and continues to surprise. A once-elite finance professional loses his job, goes through a divorce, and walks away with nothing—only to rediscover himself through a life of theft, all wrapped in sharp dark humor. The show’s portrayal of the wealthy is equally satirical. Take this season’s scenario: a group of rich elites lounging in a sauna, casually discussing national affairs—absurd, yet uncomfortably real.

    [Film] Where the Wind Comes From

    • Keywords: Drama
    • Also known as: Tunis-Djerba / Where the Wind Comes From
    • Length: 100 minutes; Douban link

    If we can’t even dream, what do we have left?

    @利兹与青鸟: After her father’s death, Alyssa must care for her young sister while also looking after her mother, who suffers from depression. Even if it means becoming an undocumented immigrant, she is desperate to leave Tunisia, which feels like a cage. Her friend Mehdi is a talented painter but grows increasingly anxious due to his inability to find work. The two often escape into art and imagination to briefly forget the pressures of reality—until a painting competition offers them a potential breakthrough, with the winner earning a chance to travel to Germany. They embark on a reckless journey in pursuit of their dreams, tasting freedom but also encountering danger. Their spirited youth scatters in the wind, and life inevitably returns to its quiet rhythm.

    Alyssa and Mehdi’s story reflects the struggles of many young people in North Africa. Rigid social classes and systemic stagnation leave them with few options, yet Alyssa’s vibrant and romantic spirit refuses to be extinguished. She imagines dull classrooms as elegant modern dance performances and rationally believes that raising her sister should be her mother’s responsibility. Alyssa’s impulsive red and Mehdi’s restrained blue stand side by side against white houses, golden deserts, and deep blue starry skies. The bold clash of colors, paired with refined cinematography and precise composition, lends the film a poetic quality. Their defiance and cries resonate with the audience, reminding us that the wind of hope will return.

    [Animation] Daemons of the Shadow Realm

    • Keywords: Manga adaptation / Fantasy / Adventure / Action
    • Also known as: 黄泉のツガイ / Daemons of the Shadow Realm
    • Length: 24 minutes per episode × 24 episodes, updated weekly on Saturdays
    • Where to watch: Bahamut Anime; Douban link

    Night and day, sealed and unsealed.

    @SHY: Yuru, a young hunter from a mountain village, only wishes to stay by the side of his imprisoned twin sister Asa. But their peaceful life is shattered by outsiders. Deep within a dungeon where chaos erupts, another girl claiming to be Asa appears before him. As Yuru uncovers the village’s secrets, he gains new powers and is drawn into an unfolding adventure.

    Adapted from a new series by Hiromu Arakawa, this work may look familiar in style, but it is far more than just swapping brothers for siblings. Its explosive opening reveals a glimpse of its brutal core—when the world you’ve always known collapses before your eyes, the clueless Yuru is forced into a vortex of conspiracy and fate. Strong storytelling supports its tightly interwoven twists, crafting a gripping narrative that balances suspense with humor, constantly pulling viewers forward.

    With animation by Bones, the production receives top-tier treatment. Director Masahiro Ando and veteran screenwriter Noboru Takagi lead an all-star creative and voice cast lineup. Episode one delivers a remarkably steady start—its straightforward yet powerful storyboarding and naturally flowing emotional beats prove that it doesn’t rely on gimmicks, but wins through overall craftsmanship. This fully loaded heavyweight production has the potential to become the next flagship in shonen manga adaptations.

    [Animation] MAO

    • Keywords: Manga adaptation / Fantasy / Adventure / Action
    • Also known as: MAO
    • Length: 25 minutes per episode × episode count unknown, updated weekly on Saturdays
    • Where to watch: Bahamut Anime; Douban link

    Inuyasha, but with cats.

    @SHY: After losing her parents in an accident eight years ago, Nanoka returns to the shopping street where it happened—only to be transported back to the Taisho era, where she is attacked by demons. Saved by the onmyoji Mao, she is mistakenly identified as a demon herself. After returning to the present, she awakens powers beyond ordinary humans, and the fates of the two become intertwined.

    Veteran mangaka Rumiko Takahashi never slows down. Not long after finishing the lighthearted RIN-NE, she returned to a more serious tone with MAO. With its time-travel and demon-slaying setup, comparisons to Inuyasha are inevitable. While it may not reach the peak of her earlier works, Takahashi’s experience still shines through, finding fresh angles within familiar themes. A balance between tense main plotlines and episodic storytelling weaves a lingering dark fantasy adventure.

    Continuing Takahashi’s streak of having all her works adapted into anime, Sunrise reunites much of the team behind Inuyasha and Yashahime. Director Teruo Sato and chief animation director Yoshihito Hishinuma are familiar names. Although the budget may not match top-tier productions, the team’s dedication is evident—the overall presentation feels solid, carrying a nostalgic and reassuring tone. If you enjoy Takahashi’s previous works, this is well worth a try.

    [Animation] Dorohedoro Season 2

    • Keywords: Manga adaptation / Fantasy / Mystery / Action
    • Also known as: ドロヘドロ Season 2 / Dorohedoro Season 2
    • Length: ~25 minutes per episode × 11 episodes, updated weekly on Wednesdays
    • Where to watch: Bahamut Anime / Netflix; Douban link

    Who killed me, and whom did I kill?

    @SHY: Caiman, whose head has been turned into that of a lizard and who has lost all memory of his past, hunts sorcerers alongside his partner Nikaido in hopes of returning to normal. After a series of encounters, the two—now pursued by the En family—hide within the sorcerers’ world, while Shin, Noi, and others begin uncovering clues about the Cross-Eyes organization. Multiple factions collide, tangling everything into chaos.

    After putting out the fire of Attack on Titan: The Final Season, director Yuichiro Hayashi finally returns “to the Hole for a meal of dumplings,” reuniting with the original MAPPA team to deliver this unrestrained, visceral feast. With the shift from TV broadcast to streaming-exclusive, each episode now has more flexible pacing—and pushes the limits even further, opening with brutally graphic fight scenes that hit like a punch to the face. The exhilarating audiovisual language propels a story that charges forward at full speed, continuing its grotesque yet mesmerizing cult aesthetic with thick, painterly visuals.

    Original creator Q Hayashida excels at weaving order out of chaos through multi-threaded storytelling, deepening this bizarre and grotesque world with her distinctive dark humor—where characters can rob and kill, then casually dance on graves; tear out hearts and still go the extra mile in dismemberment. The plot constantly unfolds in unexpected ways, blending madness with moments of warmth that offer emotional relief—there’s always a relationship that will move you. After long buildup, the lingering mysteries begin to unravel, revealing Caiman’s true identity and Nikaido’s past, while what lies ahead remains hidden within the chaos.

    [Animation] Invincible Season 4

    • Keywords: Manga adaptation / Sci-Fi / Action / Adventure
    • Also known as: Invincible Season 4
    • Length: ~50 minutes per episode × 8 episodes, updated weekly on Wednesdays
    • Where to watch: Prime Video; Douban link

    Who is this apology really for—her, or yourself?

    @SHY: After his deadly battle with Conquest, “Invincible” Mark continues fighting to protect Earth, while Eve’s powers begin to spiral out of control, putting new strain on their relationship. At this critical moment, Omni-Man Nolan—now with renewed purpose—reappears, asking Mark to join a war against the Viltrumites that will determine the fate of the galaxy.

    Following a somewhat underwhelming third season, the production quality has seen a noticeable rebound. With the stage expanding to an interstellar scale, the action sequences grow more spectacular, delivering bone-crunching fights that get your blood pumping. Even as the storylines continue to expand, the writing remains solid, offering a well-balanced adaptation of the original comic. It places both superheroes and ordinary people face-to-face with their own problems, creating a rich array of compelling moments. Alongside returning familiar faces, new characters like Zoe bring fresh charm to the series.

    Equally important as the war with the Coalition of Planets and the Viltrumites are the emotional bonds between characters. Mark and Eve, entering a new phase in their relationship, must reassess their connection; Oliver struggles to come to terms with the father he once idolized; Nolan, returning to Earth, tries to atone for his past and repair his relationships with both family and humanity. But after committing unforgivable atrocities, is he worthy of redemption? By crafting complex characters that go beyond traditional superhero and antihero archetypes, the series gains deeper humanistic resonance.

    [Reality Show] Punghyanggo 2

    • Keywords: Reality Show
    • Also known as: Punghyanggo 2
    • Length: ~45 minutes per episode × 10 episodes; Douban link

    Travel—but without using apps to check your route.

    @潘誉晗: When you think about it, smartphones really are convenient. For example, when traveling, we can book train tickets and flights in advance, reserve hotels, compare prices across apps to find the best deals, and even look up nearby food recommendations on social platforms. But what if you were given the chance to travel abroad—without being allowed to use your phone, relying only on paper maps and guidebooks?

    Punghyanggo returns for its second season with the same premise. Lee Sung-min, fresh off winning Best Supporting Actor, trades his suit for casual wear, contributes his share of travel expenses (the group pays their own way), and sets off with Yoo Jae-suk, Ji Suk-jin, and Yang Se-chan on a journey to Austria and Hungary. Of course, traveling without phones proves inconvenient—they drag their suitcases from hotel to hotel, only to find rooms either fully booked or beyond their budget, especially during Europe’s peak Christmas season. Fortunately, they take it all in stride, and once accommodations are sorted, they quickly slip into travel mode.

    Freed from their phones and returning to the essence of travel, this middle-aged quartet finds themselves enjoying the journey even more—simply by focusing on the experience itself.

    More

    [Chinese Series] Young and Ambitious @潘誉晗: Overworked corporate drone Pei Qian receives a mysterious offer from a powerful figure, asking him to start a company—with the promise that the more money the company loses, the more he personally earns. Determined to get rich and buy a house for his parents, Pei Qian embarks on a grand plan to lose money. Adapted from Losing Money to Be a Tycoon by Qing Shan Qu Zui, the series feels like a hybrid of Hello Mr. Billionaire and Too Cool to Kill—an exaggerated premise that humorously captures the struggles of everyday workers.

    [Chinese Series] Unpredictable @利兹与青鸟: A clue discovered in 2011 prompts police to reopen the investigation into the major June 10 credit union robbery-murder case, identifying Meng Guangcai as the prime suspect. The case is assigned to his longtime friend Zhu Helai. Now the chairman of the city’s first quasi-listed company, bringing Meng to justice inevitably involves complex power struggles. The series adopts a dual timeline structure, interweaving past and present to depict the characters’ friendships and the unpredictability of fate. While the pacing may feel less gripping at times and the overall execution is fairly conventional, the strong cast makes it worth a watch.

    [Japanese Series] Farewell Hospital Season 2 @利兹与青鸟: This is a hospital dedicated to patients requiring intensive care and unable to live independently. Some suffer from cognitive disorders that alter their personalities, others remain unconscious with no family to contact, and there is even a bestselling author in the late stages of cancer. Many elderly patients feel they have lived long enough, while a nurse battling cancer herself still longs to live and realize her value. Nurse Henmi serves as both witness and participant, helping fulfill patients’ final wishes while reflecting on the meaning of life. Through a series of gently told stories, the show delivers something both moving and healing—well worth your time.

    [Japanese Series] Before Your Betrayal Leads to Execution @潘誉晗: In 2026, serial killer Okuma Shiori, responsible for a string of murders targeting teachers, is sentenced to death. While preparing a documentary about the case, Sakabe Kotaro reunites with two college friends. For unknown reasons, during a car ride, they are suddenly transported back seven years, where they encounter Shiori—then on the run for the first murder. Yet she insists she is innocent. Blending a god’s-eye perspective on crime with time-travel elements, this series offers a fresh twist for fans of the genre.

    [Film] All You Need Is Kill @SHY: After being killed by an alien creature, rookie soldier Rita awakens once again on the same morning, trapped in an endless time loop—until she meets Kiryu Keiji, who is caught in the same cycle. Better known internationally under the title Edge of Tomorrow, this 2004 light novel has already inspired two manga adaptations and a Hollywood blockbuster, and now finally receives an anime adaptation. Produced by Studio 4°C, the film features a distinctive artistic style. Its narrative also breaks away from previous versions, telling the story from Rita’s perspective, offering a completely different flavor from earlier adaptations.

    📅 New Trailers This Week

    The Devil Wears Prada 2 — Final Trailer

    On April 6, The Devil Wears Prada 2 released its final trailer. The original cast returns, including Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, Anne Hathaway, Stanley Tucci, Tracie Thoms, Tibor Feldman, along with director David Frankel. The screenplay is once again written by Aline Brosh McKenna. The film is set to release on April 30.

    Michael Jackson: The Journey of a Legend — Final Trailer

    On April 8, the biographical film Michael Jackson: The Journey of a Legend released its final trailer and will hit mainland theaters on April 24. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film stars Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson, portraying his life beyond the stage and recreating some of the most iconic performances from his early career. Source

    Mortal Kombat 2 — New Trailer

    On April 10, the film Mortal Kombat 2 released a new trailer and is set to premiere in mainland China on May 8. Classic characters return in force, including Johnny Cage (played by Karl Urban), Kitana (played by Adeline Rudolph), Liu Kang (played by Ludi Lin), and Raiden (played by Tadanobu Asano), as a life-or-death battle to save Earth is about to begin. Source

    Rick and Morty Season 9 — Official Trailer

    On April 8, the animated series Rick and Morty Season 9 released its official trailer and is scheduled to premiere on May 24 on Adult Swim. Voiced by Ian Cardoni, Harry Belden, Sarah Chalke, Chris Parnell, and Spencer Grammer, the adventures of Rick and Morty continue, bringing even more chaos and insanity. Source

    Black Castle — Official Trailer

    On April 9, the mystery film Black Castle released its official trailer. Adapted from a Naoki Prize–winning novel by Honobu Yonezawa, the film is directed and written by Kiyoshi Kurosawa. The cast includes Masahiro Motoki, Masaki Suda, Yuriko Yoshitaka, Takayuki Aoki, Tasuku Emoto, and Joe Odagiri. It will be released in Japan on June 19.

    More

    The animated film Mononoke the Movie: Snake God released a new trailer. As the final chapter of the theatrical trilogy, with Kenji Nakamura as chief director and Tomoaki Koshida directing, and produced by Studio Kafka and EOTA studio daisy, it continues from Karakasa and Hinezumi. The Medicine Seller’s final ritual of salvation is about to begin. It will be released in Japan on May 29. Source

    Marvel special The Punisher: Last Stand released its first trailer. Starring Jon Bernthal, Chelsea Frei, Tom Johnson, Dominic Manzano, and Eve DePaolis, the story follows Frank as he searches for meaning beyond revenge, only to be pulled back into battle by an unexpected force. It premieres on Disney+ on May 12. Source

    The film Tonight, It’s Just Right released its first trailer. Written and directed by Zhao Badou and starring Ma Sichun and Chen Haosen, the film centers on a chance encounter that begins online. Designer Xu Qiu and writer Chen Yuzhou move from hesitation to honesty over the course of a single night, exploring the possibilities of modern relationships. Scheduled for release in 2026. Source

    The film The Invite released a trailer. Directed by Olivia Wilde and starring Seth Rogen, Penélope Cruz, and Edward Norton, the film is a remake of the 2020 Spanish movie Sentimental. It tells the story of a long-married couple facing a crisis in their relationship and will have a limited theatrical release in North America on June 26.

    📽 Film & TV News Weekly

    Three One Piece-related previews released
    On April 7, the live-action US series adaptation of One Piece unveiled its first teaser for Season 3, subtitled “The Battle of Alabasta,” and is set to premiere on Netflix in 2027; a brand-new animated series, Lego One Piece, released its first trailer and is scheduled to debut on September 29 on Netflix; meanwhile, the remake anime THE ONE PIECE, produced by WIT STUDIO, also dropped a new teaser, with more details to be announced later. Source

    Paper-cut animation feature Ranbiwa set for April 28 release
    On April 8, the Shanghai Animation Film Studio released a release-date trailer and poster for its first feature-length hand-painted animation on Xuan paper, Ranbiwa, which will premiere nationwide on April 28 through the Art Film Alliance circuit. Voiced by Zhou Xun and Yang Haoyu, the film follows the young boy Ranbiwa and his companion “Dog” as they journey to a sacred mountain in search of the ultimate secret of “warmth,” telling an adventure story about growth, courage, and companionship. Source

    Norwegian film Emotional Value set for April 17 mainland release
    On April 8, the film Emotional Value released its mainland China release-date trailer and poster, confirming a theatrical debut on April 17. Directed by Joachim Trier and starring Renate Reinsve, Elle Fanning, Stellan Skarsgård, and Cory Michael Smith, the film has previously won the Academy Award for Best International Feature and the Cannes Jury Prize, and was also recommended in a previous issue of “What to Watch.” Source

    Thai romantic comedy Confession Out of Time set for May 20 mainland release
    On April 8, the Thai romantic comedy Confession Out of Time released its mainland China release-date trailer and poster, announcing a May 20 theatrical release. Directed by Sitthiphong Kittikhunthaworn and starring Wongravee Nateetorn and Plearnpichaya Komalarajun, the film tells the story of Guy and June, who secretly love each other yet constantly miss their chances. It will also appear in the premiere section of the Beijing International Film Festival. Source

    Sci-fi series Dark Matter Season 2 scheduled
    On April 7, the sci-fi series Dark Matter Season 2 was set to premiere on August 28 on Apple TV+. Originally released in 2024, the series stars Joel Edgerton and Jennifer Connelly, and is based on the novel of the same name by Blake Crouch, who also serves as writer, executive producer, and showrunner. The story follows physicist and family man Jason Dessen, who is kidnapped into a parallel universe.

  • Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    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.

    More

    [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

  • Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

    ☕️ TL;DR

    Recent highlights: [Film] The Rescue Plan, [US Series] Daredevil: Reborn Season 2, [Australia] Deadloch Season 2, [Film] Proof of Love, [K-Drama] In Your Radiant Season, [J-Drama] The Son of the Future, [China] The Invisible Name, [Brazil] Radiation Crisis, [US Series] The Comeback Season 3 / Final Season, [J-Drama] Can’t Girls Make the First Move?, [Animation] Pure Punk: Clockwork Girl, [Reality Show] Mystery Cases: Limited-Time Investigation Season 2

    Notable trailers: The Witch Under the Dome official trailer, Island of Oblivion first trailer, Harry Potter TV series first trailer, Moana live-action official trailer, Blinded by Fire first trailer

    Industry news: The Devil Wears Prada 2 set for mainland China release on April 30, Michael Jackson: The Legend scheduled for April 24, The Sheep Detective Agency confirmed for import, Rise of the Monkey King set for July 10 release

    [Film] Project Hail Mary

    • Keywords: Drama / Sci-Fi / Thriller
    • Also known as: Project Hail Mary
    • Runtime: 156 minutes
    • Where to watch: Now in theaters; Douban link

    I live, you don’t die—Grace and Rocky save the universe!

    @SHY: The sun is dying, and civilization is on the brink of collapse. Ryland Grace, humanity’s last hope, embarks on a solitary mission into deep space. But when he awakens from hibernation, he has lost all his memories. Light-years away from Earth, Grace pieces together clues aboard his ship—until another spacecraft silently appears outside. Two beings from different planets: can they each fulfill their mission?

    Andy Weir, the sci-fi author who rose to fame with The Martian, once again blends rigorous scientific reasoning with gripping extraterrestrial adventure. Although the stakes escalate from saving one person to saving an entire planet, the story ultimately centers on individual exploration. A human scientist and an alien engineer—whose evolutionary paths diverged drastically—establish communication through universal laws of the cosmos, forging a pure friendship that transcends species. Through mutual understanding, they work together to save two civilizations.

    Due to runtime constraints, much of the original novel’s scientific exposition has been trimmed, but the production spared no effort in early-stage preparation. The language and physical form of the Eridians were developed with expert consultation, and practical models were used instead of relying solely on CGI. Balancing hard science fiction with emotional storytelling, the film delivers fresh twists and a unique ending, portraying a romance on a planetary scale. Carrying forward the spirit of Golden Age sci-fi, it stands as one of the most well-rounded blockbusters in recent years—most audiences will likely recommend it without hesitation.

    [US Series] Daredevil: Born Again Season 2

    • Keywords: Drama / Action / Sci-Fi / Thriller / Crime / Fantasy / Adventure
    • Also known as: Daredevil: Born Again Season 2
    • Runtime: ~50 minutes per episode × 8 episodes; Douban link

    Matt the lawyer is getting more ruthless.

    @潘誉晗: In the dead of night in New York, a cargo ship named Polaris slowly moves through the Freeport. Acting on a tip, Daredevil stealthily boards the vessel, but the captain quickly detects the intrusion and activates a self-destruct sequence. Fortunately, Daredevil escapes. He returns to his hideout and informs Peggy of the night’s discovery—the intel was correct. The ship is loaded with weapons from Europe: rocket launchers, assault rifles… all being smuggled through the Freeport by Kingpin under the guise of legitimate trade.

    As one of Marvel’s few consistently well-received series in recent years, the second season of Daredevil: Born Again opens with intense, high-stakes action, delivering several thrilling fight sequences. Beyond that, the show’s already profound themes are layered with strong political allegory. The sinking of the ship in the Freeport symbolizes Kingpin’s waning control; the anti-vigilante group he leads reflects real-world dynamics; and the appearance of the White House in a zoomed-out shot after a mysterious phone call adds further intrigue. All of this builds anticipation for how the season will unfold.

    [Australia] Deadloch Season 2

    • Keywords: Comedy / Crime
    • Also known as: Deadloch Season 2
    • Runtime: ~45 minutes per episode × 6 episodes; Douban link

    Care for a crocodile tour?

    @潘誉晗: In Australia’s Northern Territory lies a remote town called Barra Creek, an ideal place for raising crocodiles. Tourists can take boat trips along the river to observe them in the wild. One day, Amber is guiding such a tour when they come across a floating crocodile carcass—and inside its jaws, they discover a human arm. Investigating detectives believe it belongs to a missing female hiker, but Dulcie disagrees and invites Eddie to uncover the truth together. Eddie refuses.

    While continuing the storyline from the first season, the change in setting brings fresh highlights. It turns out Eddie initially avoids the case because she’s originally from Barra Creek—she has little fondness for her hometown and just wants to leave. Retaining the tone of the first season, Season 2 continues to blend crime mystery with strong dark humor. The new setting—humid, sticky, and oppressively hot—adds a different flavor, while the crocodile dismemberment case makes the story even more striking.

    [Film] Proof of Love

    • Keywords: Drama / LGBTQ+
    • Also known as: Des preuves d’amour / Love Letters
    • Runtime: 97 minutes; Douban link

    @利兹与青鸟: The film opens with the sound of France legalizing same-sex marriage. Nadia and Céline are in the hospital preparing for the birth of their child. Although they are already married, the child must still go through an adoption process; otherwise, legally, the child belongs only to the biological mother, Nadia. The adoption procedure is complex and lengthy, taking 8–10 months and requiring letters of support from 15 friends and family members. This forces Céline to reconnect with her estranged mother, a pianist living in Prague. As Céline navigates the adoption process, they also face the discomfort, fear, confusion, and self-doubt common to all new mothers, as well as challenges unique to same-sex families. Along the way, Céline begins to re-examine her relationship with her mother, Marguerite.

    This is director Alice Douard’s feature debut and was nominated twice at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. Through seemingly mundane daily moments, the film sketches a full portrait of a non-traditional family, quietly telling the story of what comes after “happily ever after.” The “proof of love” is not only the legal letters required, but also Céline’s uncertainty about her identity as a mother, and the unease shaped by her own mother’s absence during childhood. With a light yet powerful narrative, the film gently dissolves the distance between mother and daughter, delivering a story that is both delicate and sincere.

    [South Korea] In Your Radiant Season

    Keywords: Drama / Romance
    Also known as: In Your Radiant Season
    Runtime: ~60 minutes per episode × 10 episodes; Douban link

    Love heals us both.

    @潘誉晗: Designer Song Ha-ran has refused to fall in love for years. As a child, she witnessed her parents die in a car accident; seven years ago, she flew to the U.S. to surprise her beloved boyfriend, only to encounter an explosion in his lab. Since then, she has believed that if she doesn’t love, she won’t have to fear loss. Her studio is now collaborating with an animation company, bringing character designer Sunwoo Chan into her life. What she doesn’t know is that Sunwoo Chan was her boyfriend’s roommate in Boston—and the comforting messages she thought came from her boyfriend were actually written by him.

    The male lead has lost his memory and hearing in one ear, while the female lead sees herself as someone doomed to misfortune. They heal each other and gradually move toward one another. What could have been a purely romantic story becomes something more layered due to the misaligned relationship between them, making this love story unfold slowly and deliberately. This may also explain why the show’s reputation continues to grow over time—it avoids sugary clichés, instead using love as an entry point to explore inner trauma and emotional redemption. Its gentle pacing quietly strikes a deep emotional chord.

    [Japan] The Son of the Future

    • Keywords: Comedy / Romance / Family
    • Also known as: The Son from the Future — A Boy Appears in the Life of a Woman Who Hasn’t Dated in 10 Years!
    • Runtime: ~45 minutes per episode × 10 episodes; Douban link

    In the future, I will become your mother.

    @潘誉晗: To pursue her dream of becoming an actress, Mirai Shikawa ignores her mother’s advice and moves to Tokyo alone. One night, while resting at home, she hears a strange noise outside her door. After a sudden clap of thunder, a boy around five years old appears before her. He calls himself Sota, claiming to be from the year 2036—and her future son.

    Adapted from a manga of the same name, the premise may seem familiar at first glance. The story begins with a time-traveling son hoping his mother will reconcile with his father, while also establishing that Mirai hasn’t been in a relationship for ten years. Three potential love interests are then introduced, inviting viewers to guess who will become her husband. Yet what makes this light comedy stand out is how it uses this seemingly cliché setup to let Mirai reflect on herself through this unusual mother-son relationship. Looking back on the past decade, she has juggled part-time jobs while performing in theater productions, constantly auditioning and chasing her dream. Now 28, she feels she has achieved nothing and remains stuck in place. When will this long pursuit of her dream finally come to an end?

    This cross-temporal bond of family adds warmth and emotional depth to the tension between dreams and reality.

    [China] The Invisible Name

    Keywords: Drama
    Runtime: 45 minutes per episode × 32 episodes
    Where to watch: Tencent Video; Douban link

    Finding a ray of light in hardship.

    @利兹与青鸟: Professor Liu Xiaoran’s new book is published, but it is actually plagiarized from a diary co-written by his wife Ren Xiaoming and their old friend Bai Shu. This crosses a line for Ren Xiaoming. Even though the secrets in the diary cannot be made public, she decides to search for the diary hidden by her husband while preparing a copyright lawsuit. Meanwhile, an unidentified skeleton is discovered at the site of Ren Xiaoming’s former middle school, and a pen found at the scene belongs to her former teacher, Mr. Zhou. This case connects the past of Ren Xiaoming and Bai Shu, as well as the intertwined histories of Ren Xiaoming’s mother and Mr. Zhou. Though their life paths differ, they all face hardship with resilience, supporting and illuminating one another.

    The series features a strong cast and compelling performances, using a dual timeline structure that interweaves character development with both the mystery investigation and the diary narrative. This also makes its strengths and weaknesses clear: the investigative aspect is relatively weak, and the main plot progresses slowly, but the overall story is rich, layered, and deeply moving. It portrays youthful friendships built on mutual protection, a mother silently enduring hardship for her child, another mother whose controlling nature destroys lives, and above all, the courage to persevere and support one another in the face of adversity.

    [Brazil] Radioactive Emergency

    Keywords: Drama / Thriller / History / Disaster
    Also known as: Emergência Radioativa / Radioactive Emergency
    Runtime: 53–65 minutes per episode × 5 episodes
    Where to watch: Netflix; Douban link

    The most severe nuclear accident in Brazil’s history.

    @潘誉晗: On September 13, 1987, in Goiânia, Brazil, two scavengers sold an object they found in an abandoned hospital to a scrapyard. That night, the scrapyard owner noticed the object emitting a glowing blue light—strikingly beautiful in the darkness. Believing it to be something valuable, he took it home and even shared the glowing blue powder with workers, friends, and family. What they didn’t realize was that the luminous powder was cesium-137, a highly radioactive nuclear element.

    This recent Netflix release is a realist disaster thriller adapted from the real-life Goiânia radiation accident. The globally shocking event originated from an abandoned radiotherapy device, whose blue glow led people to mistakenly treat it as something precious, spreading it widely. It was smeared on skin, furniture, even poured into water sources… Almost documentary-like in tone, the series uses a restrained and somber style to recreate the tragedy, reminding viewers of the terrifying power of nuclear materials and the importance of public safety. At the same time, the inaction and blame-shifting by authorities depicted in the show also invite reflection.

    [US Series] The Comeback Season 3 / Final Season

    • Keywords: Comedy
    • Also known as: The Comeback Season 3
    • Runtime: ~30 minutes per episode × 8 episodes; Douban link

    AI has taken everyone’s jobs.

    @潘誉晗: After eleven years, Valerie is back. Returning to the spotlight at this age, she may already be seen by younger audiences as a washed-up actress—but she still holds an Emmy, and believes she can find work again. She even moved back to Hollywood in advance. But reality proves far less kind. With COVID and AI reshaping the industry, Hollywood has undergone dramatic changes. Up-and-coming directors now rely on AI-generated scripts, while writers protest in the streets. Valerie studies scripts carefully, even for roles with just six lines, yet on set, no one takes her seriously.

    The cult-favorite series The Comeback returns with its third—and final—season. Following real-world timelines, the show releases roughly one season per decade, offering a brutally honest portrayal of the entertainment industry. Presented in a mockumentary style, it captures the journey of a faded star trying to make a comeback. In an era shaped by streaming and AI, survival comes with new pressures, but Valerie continues to persevere in her own way.

    [Japan] Can’t Girls Make the First Move?

    • Keywords: Comedy / Romance
    • Also known as: 女の子が抱いちゃダメですか? / Ladies on Top
    • Runtime: ~20 minutes per episode × 8 episodes; Douban link

    What we call “normal” in relationships is just a habit—not the only answer.

    @Sholmes: Kajitani feels uncomfortable whenever her dates with men turn intimate. Her previous relationships all ended because she was perceived as too distant. Shinomiya, on the other hand, prefers his partner to take the initiative during intimacy, but his ex-girlfriend found this strange and broke up with him. When Kajitani and Shinomiya start dating, Kajitani is happy to take the lead, while Shinomiya, influenced by his past relationship, tries to be more proactive—but always falters at critical moments. With their shared awkwardness and vulnerability, the two begin an unconventional romance.

    Adapted from a manga, the series explores intimacy and gender expectations through a gentle questioning of what “normal” really means. Kajitani resists the social expectation that women shouldn’t be too forward, while Shinomiya struggles under the gaze of others, unable to overcome the idea that men should lead—even when he knows what he wants. Rather than treating this pairing as a novelty, the show uses a light comedic tone to seriously examine who defines the “right” way to love. The characters’ awkwardness and misalignment are handled with precision, with each comedic moment carrying a subtle sting of truth. Perhaps a healthy relationship is simply about finding your own rhythm within that misalignment—even if imperfect, it feels more genuine than a rigid, so-called ideal.

    [Animation] Virgin Punk: Clockwork Girl

    • Keywords: Sci-Fi / Action / Mystery
    • Also known as: ヴァージン・パンク Clockwork Girl / Virgin Punk: Clockwork Girl
    • Runtime: 35 minutes; Douban link

    One day, I will kill you.

    @SHY: Raised in an orphanage, Habane Kamibane loses her home after the head of the orphanage is executed by the bounty hunter known as Mr. Elegant. Ten years later, Habane has grown into an independent bounty hunter, only to be ambushed by Mr. Elegant. Her consciousness is transferred into an artificial cyborg body. Forced to join the assassin organization “Archimedes DEATH” and work under him, Habane begins a battle dictated by fate.

    After more than a decade working across various productions, legendary director Yasuomi Umetsu—known for works like Kite—returns with his signature violent aesthetic, delivering a striking experience for a new generation of viewers. This project, ten years in the making since its planning began in 2015, packs 740 cuts and 35,000 key frames into just 35 minutes, showcasing an incredibly dense display of animation craftsmanship and creating a thrilling audiovisual spectacle. It stands as one of SHAFT’s highest production peaks in recent years.

    Although Umetsu has somewhat restrained himself compared to his earlier works, his trademark provocative elements are still present. Themes of sexuality, youth, and crime—recurring throughout his career—combine with intense hand-to-hand combat, gunfights, and explosions, evoking the feel of a 1990s OVA recreated with modern technology. Even if many of the core ideas echo his past works, the result still leaves viewers wanting more—hopefully it performs well enough to ensure a sequel doesn’t remain a distant dream.

    [Reality Show] Agents of Mystery Season 2

    • Keywords: Drama / Action / Sci-Fi / Thriller / Crime / Fantasy / Adventure
    • Also known as: Agents of Mystery Season 2
    • Runtime: ~57 minutes per episode × 9 episodes
    • Where to watch: Netflix; Douban link

    Step into mystery and science.

    @潘誉晗: Six months ago, an object measuring 43 meters in diameter crashed into the waters off southern Florida, triggering a tsunami that caused multiple casualties. While the U.S. government claimed it was merely a fragment of an asteroid, it is in fact an unidentified flying object from outer space. The advanced data contained within it holds significant military implications. The organization XIN therefore partnered with a private space company to preserve this data. However, this decision sparked opposition, and Lee Yong-jin, John Park, Lee Hyeri, Kim Do-hoon, Yoo Jimin, and Shin Ga-bi must act before a crisis unfolds to delete the classified information.

    With clearly increased funding compared to the first season, this reality show demonstrates major improvements in both puzzle design and overall production. Right from the first episode, it introduces a large-scale, sci-fi narrative, immersing viewers in a fantastical adventure centered on high-tech data from a UFO. Agents of Mystery builds each episode around strange cases that science cannot fully explain—space phenomena, zombies, ghosts, and more. Once the mission is set, the cast members are left to explore and develop the story themselves.

    More

    [Japan] Alley Inn
    @SHY: Deep within a secluded alley stands an unassuming inn that offers its guests a mysterious night. Struggling with writer’s block, screenwriter Yuika returns to a school trip she was meant to skip; art student Mina, seeking a quiet place to paint, reunites with her high school best friend… A night spent here may help untangle the worries buried in one’s heart. Featuring all third-generation members of Sakurazaka46, the series includes fan-service elements and strong yuri undertones, but also puts genuine effort into its storytelling, with each episodic story offering its own appeal.

    [Japan] The Vice President’s Main Duties
    @SHY: The student council of Shikyuu Girls’ High once had seven members, but now only vice president Kurishita Rui and president Haiya Gin remain, as Rui has taken on nearly all responsibilities herself. Behind the closed doors of the student council room, the two female colleagues engage in intense, unseen battles every day. Adapted from a short manga on pixiv, this sweet and light series pairs a composed yet cunning tall vice president with a timid and adorable petite president, delivering a height-gap reverse-romance comedy. Its everyday moments, tinged with ambiguity, remain endlessly charming.

    [Film] Dive in Wonderland
    @SHY: College student Rise, who has repeatedly failed to secure a job, arrives in a strange Wonderland after receiving a mysterious invitation letter left by her late grandmother. There, she embarks on an unknown journey alongside Alice. Blending classic fairy tales with modern themes, animation studio P.A.WORKS—known for its “working girl” stories—this time tells the story of a girl who cannot find work. The vibrant visuals recreate a dreamlike Wonderland, adding color to this brief escape from reality, helping viewers set aside confusion and rediscover the courage to face tomorrow.

    [Documentary] The Murdoch Dynasty
    @潘誉晗: Netflix’s latest documentary focuses on Rupert Murdoch, patriarch of the Murdoch family and a giant in the global news media industry. Through rare archival footage, letters, and interviews with insiders, the documentary traces Murdoch’s rise from a small local newspaper to a global media empire. It also reveals the power struggles between Murdoch and his children—essentially a real-life version of Succession.

    📅 This Week’s New Trailers

    The Witch Under the Dome official trailer

    On March 25, the TV anime The Witch Under the Dome released its first official trailer. It will begin airing in July and premiere in June at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival. Adapted from the manga of the same name, Naoko Yamada serves as chief director, Abel Gongora directs, and Science SARU handles production. The original work ranked No.1 in the 2023 edition of Kono Manga ga Sugoi! (Female Readers category). Source

    Island of Oblivion first trailer

    On March 25, DreamWorks Animation released the first trailer for Island of Oblivion, set to premiere in North America on September 25. Directed by Puss in Boots: The Last Wish directors Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, the story follows two friends spending their final night together after graduation, only to be transported to a long-forgotten magical island. Source

    Harry Potter TV series first trailer

    On March 26, HBO released the first trailer for Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The series is set to premiere during Christmas 2026. Original author J.K. Rowling serves as executive producer, with Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton, and Alastair Stout starring. The first season consists of 8 episodes, offering a comprehensive retelling of Harry’s first journey into the wizarding world. Source

    Moana live-action film official trailer

    On March 24, the live-action film Moana: Voyage Begins released its official trailer, with a North American release date of July 10. Directed by Thomas Kail, with Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as Maui, and starring Catherine Laga‘aia, John Tui, Frankie Adams, and Rena Owen. Moana sets sail with Maui to protect her people and island. Source

    Blinded by Fire first trailer

    On March 24, the Hong Kong action film Blinded by Fire released its first international trailer, set for North American release on May 29. Directed by Kenji Tanigaki, written by Mak Tin-shu, and starring Nicholas Tse, Yang Enyou, Joe Taslim, Yayan Ruhian, and JeeJa Yanin. After his daughter is abducted on the street, shop owner Wang Wei dives into a complex criminal network, using every means necessary to rescue her. Source

    More

    Stranger Things: 1985 Stories official trailer: Set between Seasons 2 and 3 of Stranger Things, the story returns to Hawkins in the winter of 1985, with Eleven and her friends facing new monsters and supernatural mysteries. Premieres April 23 on Netflix. Source

    The Sheep in the Box official trailer: Directed and written by Hirokazu Kore-eda, starring Haruka Ayase, Daigo, and Rim Yuwaki. Inspired by The Little Prince, the story is set in the near future, where a grieving couple welcomes a humanoid robot into their home after losing their child. Releases May 29 in Japan. Source

    A Spoonful of Chocolate first trailer: Produced by Quentin Tarantino and directed by RZA, starring Shameik Moore and Paris Jackson. A former soldier travels to a small town, where he finds love—and trouble he cannot handle. Premieres May 1 in North America. Source

    Hacks Season 5 official trailer: Starring Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder, the fifth and final season promises their most exciting journey yet. Premieres April 9 on HBO Max.

    Artificial Intelligence trailer: Directed and written by Ryoo Seung-wan, starring Zo In-sung, Park Jung-min, Park Hae-joon, and Shin Se-kyung. A South Korean agent tracks a drug cartel in Russia and clashes with a North Korean agent, drawing both into a web of danger and secrets. Premieres March 31 on Netflix.

    Peak Hunt official trailer: Starring Charlize Theron, Taron Egerton, and Eric Bana, directed by Baltasar Kormákur (Everest). The story follows an outdoor survival expert who encounters a serial killer in the Australian wilderness and must use all her skills to fight back. Premieres April 24 on Netflix.

    📽 Film & TV News Weekly

    The Devil Wears Prada 2 set for April 30 release in mainland China

    On March 23, the film The Devil Wears Prada 2 was officially scheduled for release in mainland China on April 30, alongside a trailer and poster. Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, Anne Hathaway, Stanley Tucci, Tracie Thoms, Tibor Feldman, and director David Frankel return. Glamour on the runway, sharp rivalry behind the scenes—the fashion world is about to be turned upside down. Source

    Michael Jackson: The Legend set for April 24 release in mainland China

    On March 27, the biographical film Michael Jackson: The Legend was scheduled for release in mainland China on April 24, with a trailer and poster released. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film stars Jaafar Jackson—Michael Jackson’s nephew—as MJ, portraying his life beyond the stage while recreating some of the most iconic performances from his early career. Source

    The Sheep Detective Agency confirmed for mainland China release

    On March 24, the film The Sheep Detective Agency was confirmed for release in mainland China, with a trailer and poster unveiled; the release date is yet to be announced. Directed by Kyle Balda (Minions series), Hugh Jackman (“Wolverine”) plays a shepherd who dies mysteriously at the very beginning. When rookie police officers fail to solve the case, the sheep themselves decide to take action and uncover the truth behind their shepherd’s sudden demise. Source

    Rise of the Monkey King set for July 10 release

    On March 27, the animated film Rise of the Monkey King was scheduled for nationwide release on July 10, with a trailer and poster released. Produced by the team behind Monkey King: Hero Is Back and Paths of the Soul, the story follows the Monkey King as he embarks on a new heroic journey 11 years later. The Buddhist pilgrimage has ended, but the game of demons has begun—heaven and earth become a chessboard, all beings its pieces, and the line between Buddha and demon lies within a single thought. Source