What to watch this week: From a UFO cult to a second-act tale

From thrilling historical dramas to mind-bending mysteries and feel-good transformations, these new releases have something for everyone. Dive into pre-independence India with Captain Miller, unravel a deadly game of cat-and-mouse in A Killer Paradox, or explore the controversial world of a French cult in Raël: The Alien Prophet.

So, what are you waiting for? Ready, set, binge!

Captain Miller (Tamil)

This period drama, helmed by Arun Matheswaran, transports viewers to pre-independence India of the 1930s-40s.

The story follows the journey of Analeesan Eesa, a simple village boy driven by aspirations to escape his social standing by joining the British Indian Army. Fate, however, takes a dramatic turn, transforming Eesa into the enigmatic Captain Miller, branded a dacoit by the British as he orchestrates daring heists and assaults. 

The film also features a stellar soundtrack from GV Prakash. 

Starring: Dhanush, Priyanka Arul Mohan, Shivaraj Kumar, Sundeep Kishan

Where to watch: Netflix

A Killer Paradox (Korean)

This promising suspenseful crime thriller is a classic cat-and-mouse chase. Starring Choi Woo Shik as Lee Tang, an ordinary store worker suddenly thrust into the role of accidental killer, and Son Suk Ku as the relentless detective Jang Nam Gam, the series delves into the aftermath of a life-altering decision. 

Lee, once averse to violence, now faces the consequences of his actions as Jang pursues the truth and the true killer. Will Lee’s past catch up to him, or can he outmaneuver the determined detective? 

Starring: Choi Woo Shik, Son Suk Ku, Lee Hee Jun, Hyun Bong Sik

Where to watch: Netflix

Raël: The Alien Prophet (French)

This gripping docuseries dives headfirst into the bizarre world of the Raëlian Movement, a French cult led by self-proclaimed prophet Raël. 

Their claim: creating the first human clone in the early 2000s, fueled by the belief that a technologically advanced alien species, the Elohim, were humanity’s true creators. 

This controversial story unfolds from Raël’s 1970s beginnings to the founding of Clonaid, their cloning company, leaving viewers to contemplate the entire premise. 

Where to watch: Netflix

Falling for Figaro (English)

In a classic Eat, Pray, Love-esque fashion, London fund manager Millie ditches her lucrative career to chase an audacious dream – becoming an opera singer. 

The Scottish Highlands become her unlikely training ground, where fiery competition awaits. 

Under the tutelage of a former opera diva Meghan and facing off against talented rivals, Millie embarks on a grueling journey. 

Starring: Joanna Lumley, Danielle Macdonald, Hugh Skinner

Where to watch: Netflix

Ashes (Turkish)

This mystery drama throws open the curtain on the life of a seemingly affluent wife who embarks on a captivating quest. 

The manuscript ‘Ashes’ lands on Gökçe’s desk, promising more than just publication for her husband’s company. Within its pages, a world of mystery ignites a spark. Passions buried beneath the picture-perfect facade of her marriage with Kenan reawaken, fueled by the captivating tale. But as Gökçe dives deeper, the truth within the book mirrors the cracks forming in her seemingly idyllic life. 

Hidden desires clash with reality, forcing her to confront a chilling question: how much will she sacrifice?

Starring: Funda Eryigit, Alperen Duymaz, Mehmet Günsür

Where to watch: Netflix