Emily Darlow’s weekend streaming picks cover all the bases — a gripping Jacinda Ardern documentary, the beautifully made A Gentleman in Moscow, Shetland’s tenth season and a spelling bee that somehow became the funniest show on television. Three of the six are completely free.
Netflix – Paid Subscription – Prime Minister
Political drama fans should absolutely add Prime Minister to their watchlist. This documentary traces Jacinda Ardern’s rise as New Zealand’s youngest prime minister and her empathetic leadership through motherhood and major crises. This tense new Netflix series follows the newly elected leader attempting to navigate international crises, media pressure and growing threats both inside and outside government. Packed with political manoeuvring, personal scandal and plenty of suspense, the documentary has the sort of fast paced energy that makes it incredibly easy to watch.
SBS On Demand – Free – A Gentleman in Moscow
Based on the bestselling novel, A Gentleman in Moscow is a beautifully made period drama starring Ewan McGregor as Count Alexander Rostov, an aristocrat sentenced to house arrest inside a grand Moscow hotel following the Russian Revolution. What unfolds is an intimate and surprisingly moving story about friendship, resilience and finding meaning within a rapidly changing world. Elegant, thoughtful and visually stunning, this is exactly the sort of slow burn prestige drama perfect for cosy winter viewing.
BritBox – Paid Subscription – Shetland
Few shows do atmospheric crime drama quite like Shetland. Set against the rugged beauty of Scotland’s remote Shetland Islands, the long running series continues to deliver smart mysteries, layered characters and breathtaking scenery. The isolation of the islands gives every case an added sense of tension, while the strong emotional storytelling keeps it feeling far more grounded than your average detective show. A must watch for fans of Vera, Broadchurch or classic British crime dramas. Season 10 now available on BritBox
7Plus – Free – The Real Housewives of London
The Real Housewives franchise has officially landed in London and honestly, the city suits the chaos perfectly. Expect glamorous dinner parties, designer fashion, social climbing, passive aggressive arguments and enough awkward tension to fuel an entire season. Between the lavish homes and sharp British one liners, this version brings a slightly different energy to the franchise while still delivering all the drama longtime Housewives fans could possibly want.
Netflix – Paid Subscription – Legends
Legends is one of those slick action thrillers designed to completely take over your weekend. The series follows a group of not-so-elite operatives pulled into a dangerous web of undercover missions, shifting identities and international conspiracies. Fast paced, stylish and packed with twists, it has the sort of addictive momentum where every episode ends with another reason to keep watching. Perfect if you are after an easy thriller binge with plenty of action.
ABC iview – Free – Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee
If you have not yet discovered Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee, prepare to become slightly obsessed. Hosted by New Zealand comedian Guy Montgomery, the show somehow transforms spelling challenges into complete comedic chaos. Contestants attempt bizarre tasks, panic over impossible words and slowly unravel in increasingly ridiculous ways. It has the same wonderfully offbeat energy that made Taskmaster such a hit and it is almost impossible to watch without laughing.
All shows available now unless otherwise stated. Happy viewing.