Norwegian thriller La Palma has viewers praising its stunning visuals and edge-of-your-seat suspense, with one fan calling it a ‘masterpiece’
A Netflix series, described as “so binge-worthy” that it often has viewers “yelling at the TV”, has been making waves since its exclusive launch on the streaming platform last year.
The show quickly generated a buzz among subscribers, largely due to its unconventional approach. Set during the festive season, it offers a stark departure from the usual Christmas-themed content.
This four-part Norwegian production was swiftly devoured by a multitude of viewers, cementing its place among the most-watched titles on the platform by the end of 2024.
The official synopsis reveals: “It’s Christmas and high season when a Norwegian family checks into their favourite hotel on the island of La Palma.
“But beneath the idyll, a danger lurks. A young Norwegian scientist discovers alarming signs about the volcano located in the centre of the holiday paradise. She must convince her colleagues that the worst-case scenario is about to happen.”, reports the Express.
“If the volcano erupts, a mountain mass the size of Manhattan might erupt into the sea and cause the largest tsunami the world has ever seen. Will the family manage to escape the disaster of ash, gas and lava in a fight for their lives?” While this thrilling series, packed with action sequences to rival big-budget blockbusters, is not based on true events, it does take place near the Cumbre Vieja volcano, the most active volcanic site in the Canary Islands, according to the Mirror.
Despite its most recent eruption occurring in 2021, the series is purely fictional and not a dramatised retelling.
La Palma has bagged a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, albeit based on just six professional critic reviews. One reviewer suggested it ticks all the boxes for riveting viewing.
They penned: “An angry volcano belching lava, the threat of a tsunami, a family caught in the ensuing mêlée, a traumatized diver, a researcher with survivor guilt, an official torn between family and duty, young love and superb visuals – it’s a match made in heaven.”
Echoing the critical acclaim, one viewer shared their thoughts online, stating: “This was a masterpiece. For once the critics were right and the masses were wrong in their ratings. Glad I gave this show a shot. If you want edge of your seat suspense, good characters, emotional depth, drama, epic scenery and a beautiful and powerful message, you’ll enjoy this gem. If you’re into cliché Hollywood junk then this might go over your head.”
Another fan who binge-watched the entire series quickly also commented: “This show is SO binge-worthy. The visuals are absolutely stunning, and it’s exciting from start to finish. Loved it.”
Yet another viewer gushed: “La Palma delivers stunning visuals, compelling characters with each there own unique stories, and nonstop suspense throughout the series. It’s an exciting, well-crafted mini-series that keeps you hooked from start to finish.”
One viewer confessed to being genuinely taken aback by the series, revealing: “The show was a positive surprise for me. I didn’t think I would enjoy it as much as I did. Well written and directed and a nice overall message on climate change. Some scenes were too slow and redundant but overall I definitely recommend it, if you enjoy the genre.”
However, not all feedback was glowing, with some viewers criticising certain plot developments, particularly the finale. One exasperated viewer ranted: “Lots of me yelling at TV – ‘get out of there now, why doesn’t that plane take off? , don’t get off that plane.'”.
Despite the divided responses, another viewer revealed the series had struck an emotional chord, admitting: “I’m over here balling my eyes out and rose over here just a humming ..10/10.”
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