Embrace the new year's arrival by snuggling indoors and indulging in compelling television. With the mercury dropping and a fresh calendar turning, there's no better moment to draw the blinds, grab a warm blanket, and embark on a Netflix marathon. After all, surviving into 2026 certainly calls for some well-deserved relaxation.
Your Essential Winter Binge-Watching Guide
This week's curated selections offer a diverse viewing experience, including a beloved cult hit that arguably deserved an extended anthology run, a near-perfect anime series with ongoing installments, and a surprisingly intense reality program that perfectly aligns with Polygon's unique sensibility.
Maniac: A Mind-Bending Sci-Fi Journey
Critics frequently note Netflix's limited roster of enduring franchises, often citing that even popular shows like 'Stranger Things' and 'Squid Game' have concluded. While 'KPop Demon Hunters' recently garnered significant success, signaling a potential new long-term investment, an overlooked gem in Netflix's original content library, 'Maniac,' presents a clear opportunity for expansion.
Helmed by Cary Joji Fukunaga, known for 'True Detective,' and Patrick Somerville, creator of 'Station Eleven,' this ten-episode miniseries premiered in 2018. It centers on Annie (Emma Stone) and Owen (Jonah Hill), two individuals grappling with mental health issues in a retro-futuristic rendition of New York. Their participation in an experimental pharmaceutical trial propels them through a series of fantastical and absurd scenarios, ranging from suburban Long Island to a 'Lord of the Rings'-inspired fantasy realm. The narrative's true essence lies not in its overarching plot, but in observing these talented actors navigate increasingly outlandish situations. Seven years on, a continuation of 'Maniac' remains a cherished hope for many viewers.
However, even without a sequel, re-visiting the original season of 'Maniac' on Netflix is highly recommended for its unique blend of humor, drama, and visual spectacle.
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End: A Contemplative Anime Epic
Defying conventional fantasy tropes that typically chronicle heroes' skill development and deepening bonds en route to a climactic battle, 'Frieren: Beyond Journey's End' explores the aftermath—what happens to heroes once the antagonist is vanquished.
This 28-episode series masterfully blends comedy, action, and drama, following Frieren, an immortal elf. Her longevity, however, comes at a cost: she outlives all her companions, granting her a distinctive perspective on existence and mortality. As the world evolves around her with dizzying speed, Frieren forms a new adventuring party with Fern, a disciplined mage prodigy, and Stark, a kind-hearted warrior. While 'Frieren: Beyond Journey's End' prompts profound reflections on life and companionship, it also delivers some of the most stunning action sequences and unforgettable comedic moments in contemporary anime.
Old Enough!: A Harrowing Yet Heartwarming Reality Series
In contemporary American society, there's a prevalent tendency to overprotect children, metaphorically (and sometimes literally) shielding them from every potential challenge. In stark contrast, Japanese culture appears to recognize the importance of fostering independence through controlled, albeit slightly perilous, play. This philosophy is beautifully showcased in the remarkable documentary series 'Old Enough!'
Since its inception in 1991, this Japanese reality program has documented children as young as two undertaking their very first solo errands. Whether it's purchasing fish at the market or delivering forgotten lunches to older siblings, each episode discreetly follows these pint-sized adventurers as they confront monumental challenges from their diminutive vantage point. Witnessing a toddler gingerly navigating a busy street to reach a local corner store for oranges is guaranteed to elevate your heart rate. The burning question remains: will the camera crew intervene if danger arises? The suspense is palpable.
Every thirty-minute installment serves as a testament to courage, problem-solving, and resilience. Some children exude confidence, while others succumb to hesitation or tears. Each episode offers a valuable life lesson. With all due respect to Peter Jackson's 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy, few on-screen narratives capture the exhilaration of a journey with the same authenticity as 'Old Enough!'.
These selections offer a compelling range of stories and experiences, perfect for those seeking to escape the winter blues and immerse themselves in captivating narratives. From fantastical journeys to heartwarming real-life adventures, there's something to inspire and entertain everyone.
