Mahmood Hossain’s picks of the most binge-worthy releases on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and HBO Go.
CTRL (NETFLIX)
Netflix India has remained consistent with its original programming, providing one entertainer after another, and CTRL is sure to be yet another hit. Starring Ananya Pandey and Vihaan Samat, this psychological thriller questions our reality, and revolves around our obsession with digital content and connection. The story begins with a beloved couple who share nearly every waking moment on social media, which leads to a public breakup and terrible consequences. Showing the dark side of sharing too much knowledge and data, the film makes us question if we truly have control of our devices and actions, or if we are the ones being controlled.
Release Date: 4 October
THE FRANCHISE (HBO GO)
This HBO Original series is sure to deliver entertaining takes on what happens behind the scenes of an unloved superhero franchise. The comedy series shines a light on the chaotic nature of the filmmaking process for a big-budget film that continues to fight for its place in an unruly cinematic universe. With a few familiar faces and solid casting, Executive Producer Sam Mendes, known for being the Academy Award-winning director of American Beauty (1999) and 1917 (2019); pilot writer Jon Brown, who wrote for the hit show Succession (2018-2023); and the showrunners are sure to only add to the success of HBO with this intelligent comedy.
Release Date: 6 October
THE OFFICE (AUSTRALIA) (AMAZON PRIME VIDEO)
While there is contention as to whether the UK or American version of The Office is the funnier or better iteration, the Australians are throwing their hat in to the ring. Starring Felicity Ward as the new managing director of Flinley Craddick – a packaging company – the show’s plot revolves around keeping her branch alive and running for the foreseeable future. The series features an ensemble cast made of Australian and New Zealand comedic talents, all of which play as disgruntled employees tolerating their boss’ outlandish antics in survival mode. The eight-episode series follows similar versions aired in France, Canada, India and other countries, and is based on the BBC Studios format.
Release Date: 18 October
HASAN MINHAJ: OFF WITH HIS HEAD (NETFLIX)
After the brief controversy of his last stand-up on Netflix, and following on the heels of The King’s Jester (2022) and Homecoming King (2017) specials, Hasan Minhaj’s new stand-up Off With His Head premiers globally later this month. The two-time Peabody Award winner is back on stage tackling politics, ill-advised self improvement and the various life challenges with his children and aging parents. The special was filmed at San Jose Civic in San Jose, California; directed by Tyler Banin; and executive-produced by Prashanth Venkataramanujam and Hasan Minhaj himself.
Release Date: 22 October
