Netflix’s “La Palma” Captivates Viewers with Thrilling Storyline, Garnering Over 75 Million Hours of Viewing
Netflix’s latest international series, La Palma, has taken the streaming platform by storm, amassing a staggering 75,700,000 viewing hours since its release on December 12.
A new Netflix series has amassed over 75 million viewing hours. Credit: SimpleImages / Getty
What is La Palma About?
The four-part Norwegian drama, directed by Kasper Barfoed, unfolds on the picturesque Spanish island of La Palma, known for its stunning landscapes. Beneath its beauty lies a chilling tale of ecological disaster.
The show follows a group of geological researchers and a family of four as they confront the imminent eruption of the island’s central volcano. A scientist discovers alarming signs that the volcano is on the brink of a catastrophic eruption. If her predictions come true, a mass of rock the size of Manhattan could plunge into the sea, triggering one of the largest tsunamis the world has ever seen.
As the family struggles to escape ash, gas, and lava, the series offers gripping moments of survival, moral dilemmas, and the fight for life amid nature’s wrath.
A Stellar Cast
The show features a talented ensemble cast, including:
- Anders Baasmo Christiansen
- Ingrid Bolsø Berdal
- Alma Günther
- Bernard Storm Lager
- Thea Sofie Loch Næss
- Ólafur Darri Ólafsson
- Jorge de Juan
The cast delivers powerful performances, grounding the intense narrative with emotional depth and authenticity.
Audience Reception
Despite its mixed critical reception, La Palma has become a massive hit with audiences globally.
Social media users have flooded platforms with praise:
- “I just watched La Palma on Netflix and it was really good,” one viewer shared.
- “10/10. I binge-watched the whole thing in one sitting!” another fan exclaimed.
Even those skeptical about foreign-language dramas have been won over by the show’s suspenseful storyline and breathtaking visuals.
Mixed Reviews from Critics
On review aggregator sites, La Palma has received mixed ratings:
- Rotten Tomatoes: 33%
- IMDb: 6.3/10
Some critics have praised the show for its stunning visuals and gripping moral dilemmas, while others point out flaws in character development and plot coherence.
“While there are uneven character arcs and some implausible plot points, the series excels in its depiction of a terrifying natural disaster,” one reviewer noted.
“The family dynamics and ethical challenges offset the occasional storytelling missteps,” another critic added.
The show was filmed on the Spanish island. Credit: ImageBROKER/Reinhard Pantke / Getty
Behind the Scenes
Filmed on location on the Spanish island of La Palma, the series captures the breathtaking beauty of the region while juxtaposing it with the looming threat of disaster. The cinematography plays a pivotal role in heightening the tension, showcasing the island’s serenity against the destructive power of the volcano.
Where to Watch
La Palma is now streaming on Netflix and has quickly climbed into the platform’s Top 10 non-English shows. Whether you’re a fan of ecological thrillers or character-driven dramas, this series offers a mix of suspense, emotional stakes, and stunning visuals.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
If you’re looking for an edge-of-your-seat viewing experience that combines breathtaking scenery with a thought-provoking narrative, La Palma might just be the next series to add to your watchlist.
Have you watched La Palma yet? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Featured image credit: Brandon Bell / Getty
