Whether you are a seasoned traveler or someone who dreams of exploring new places, Netflix offers a compelling selection of films and series that provide a glimpse into diverse cultures and locations. These visual narratives can not only enhance your knowledge but may also inspire you to add these destinations to your travel itinerary.
Salt Fat Acid Heat
Release Year: 2018
Seasons: 1
Episodes: 4
Status: Ended
If you’re susceptible to appetite during cooking shows, proceed with caution while watching Salt Fat Acid Heat. This four-part documentary features chef and food writer Samin Nosrat as she explores culinary traditions across four countries: Japan, Italy, Mexico, and the United States, specifically California. Each episode highlights a fundamental ingredient associated with that region, such as salt in Japan and fat in Italy. For those who have a passion for cooking or a desire to improve their culinary skills, this series lays a strong groundwork for understanding essential cooking techniques and flavors.
The Eternaut
Release Year: 2025
Seasons: 1
Episodes: 6
Status: Ongoing
Delving into The Eternaut reveals a gripping premise where mystery is paramount. This post-apocalyptic survival series is set in Argentina, where an eerie snowfall descends upon the country. However, this is no ordinary winter; the snow proves deadly to those it contacts. What unfolds thereafter is a tale of survival steeped in suspense, inviting viewers to discover the intricacies of its storyline without spoilers.
Train to Busan
Release Year: 2016
Runtime: 1 hour, 58 minutes
While zombie films generally do not capture my attention, Train to Busan is an exception deserving of your time. Set against the backdrop of South Korea, this film offers a refreshing deviation from conventional zombie narratives. Much of the action occurs on the KTX, the country’s high-speed rail, intensifying the suspense throughout pivotal scenes. The film’s depth is further amplified by its well-developed characters, compelling viewers to root for their survival amidst chaos.
Godzilla Minus One
Release Year: 2023
Runtime: 2 hours, 5 minutes
Godzilla Minus One is an engaging option for those long journeys spent on planes or buses. Beyond delivering pure entertainment, this movie addresses significant issues, including the impact of World War II on Japan and the sensitive topic of suicide. Interestingly, it was produced by a small team, yet the visual effects are remarkably impressive.
The Lost Children
Release Year: 2024
Runtime: 1 hour, 36 minutes
While perhaps not the ideal film for airborne viewing, The Lost Children provides a powerful documentary experience centered around an incredible survival story. It chronicles the harrowing journey of four children who manage to survive a plane crash deep in the Amazon rainforest. The challenges they face are amplified by their ages, with the eldest being just 13 years old, while the youngest has not yet reached their first birthday.
Parasite
Release Year: 2019
Runtime: 2 hours, 12 minutes
Parasite stands out as a vital film that merits viewing. The narrative unfolds around the Kims, a struggling family from Korea, as they cleverly infiltrate the lives of the affluent Parks family. The film artfully critiques social class and wealth disparities, maintaining a gripping tension as the Kims navigate their deceitful scheme. The stellar performances of the cast further elevate this compelling storyline.
His House
Release Year: 2020
Runtime: 1 hour, 33 minutes
After securing asylum, Bol, Rial, and their daughter Nyagak relocate from South Sudan to London, only to encounter formidable challenges. They endure a house arrest-like existence while facing systemic racism and societal prejudice. Compounding their situation is the presence of paranormal disturbances in their home, creating a cascade of adversities that this family must confront. The emotional weight of their story invites viewers to empathize deeply with their struggles.
Japanese Tales of the Macabre
Release Year: 2018
Seasons: 1
Episodes: 4
Status: Ended
For fans of anime and Junji Ito’s storytelling, Japanese Tales of the Macabre transforms his revered horror narratives into anime format. Each tale is set in various locations throughout Japan, woven seamlessly into the cultural fabric of the country and providing an eerie yet captivating experience.
Cassandra
Release Year: 2018
Seasons: 1
Episodes: 4
Status: Ended
Cassandra offers a surreal take on artificial intelligence, presenting a narrative that delves into the implications of ancient AI systems. The story follows a family that moves into a new home in Germany, where they encounter the robot Cassandra. This limited series captures the psychological tension and the divisive effects of AI within the household dynamics.
Under Suspicion
Release Year: 2000
Runtime: 1 hour, 50 minutes
In Under Suspicion, viewers are taken on a suspenseful journey alongside Henry Hearst, played by Gene Hackman, as he becomes embroiled in a murder investigation following the discovery of a young girl’s body. The tension escalates as he finds himself at the center of increasingly complex circumstances.
In conclusion, this selection of films and series available on Netflix offers a rich tapestry of narratives that are not only entertaining but provide insight into different cultures and societal issues. Each title brings forth its unique flavor, encouraging exploration and perhaps new discoveries of destinations worth visiting.
