Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ll know how much streaming has impacted the video, audio and gaming industries. We are now using streaming technology to conduct video conferences, hold live virtual streaming events, and even to visit virtual galleries and museums from around the world!
Streaming has really revolutionised the way we live our lives, making a huge impact on the business world and the way we consume content. But why is streaming such an appealing way to watch TV shows and movies? And, just as importantly, what are some movies and series you wouldn’t want to miss in Singapore offered by streaming services such as Netflix, TVBAnywhere+ and Viu Premium?
What Makes Streaming the Ideal Video Content Solution?
1. Instant viewing
When you click on a video you want to watch, it’ll begin pretty much straight away. No more having to wait for the file to download— as long as you have a fast, reliable internet connection, you can watch whatever you want immediately.
2. No storage space needed
Streaming media, whether audio or video, means that there’s no downloads involved. As such, you don’t need to think about how much space you have left on your hard disk, nor will you have as many large files clogging up your disk and reducing your device’s performance.
3. More cost-effective with monthly subscription plans
‘Cutting the cord’ on your cable TV subscription and opting for one or even a few streaming services is going to save you quite a bit of money every month. And because most, if not all, streaming services out there offer monthly subscriptions as opposed to 1 to 2-year cable TV contracts, you have the freedom to cancel a service as you see fit and keep only the one(s) you find yourself frequently using.
4. Fantastic picture and audio quality
Searching high and low for that new release movie or TV show episode as soon as it drops often means sacrificing quality, both in terms of picture and audio. However, when you subscribe to the service that releases it almost immediately, you’ll be able to watch these blockbusters in better quality.
5. Services may offer downloads
There are many streaming services that allow you to download TV series and movies onto your device. This means that you’ll be able to watch things on the go without having to use any of your monthly data allowance.
6. Limited to no advertisements at all
Unlike network or cable TV, if you’re paying a subscription fee for a specific streaming service, you’ll get either very few or no advertisements whatsoever. So say goodbye to those annoying 30-sec ads that you so frequently wish you could click away.
7. An abundance of choice
There is a seemingly endless list of movies and TV shows to choose from across the heavyweights. Singapore’s streaming services include powerhouse platforms such as Netflix, which is known for its range of international shows and movies, Viu Premium for K-dramas, movies and variety shows, and the relatively new TVBAnywhere+ for Hong Kong dramas, variety shows and more.
What to Watch on Netflix This Year
Top 5 TV series
1. Cobra Kai
Whether you’re a fan of the original Karate Kid movies or not, you’ll love this series that pits the 1984 rivals Daniel LaRusso and Johnny Lawrence against each other as they run their own karate dojos. With 3 seasons of action-packed comedy, this is a must-watch action.
2. Lupin
Protagonist Assane Diop puts his plan into action under the guise of famous master thief Arsene Lupin to seek revenge against a wealthy man who accused his father of theft and landed him in prison. With season 2 just released in early June 2021, fans of money heist dramas are sure to enjoy the mystery and cleverly plotted cliff-hangers.
3. Crime Scene: The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel
Are you a fan of unsolved mysteries? A short docu-series that delves into the sinister history of the Cecil Hotel, the “Crime Scene'' series investigates facts and theories surrounding the disappearance of Elisa Lam, who was once a guest at the hotel.
4. The Serpent
Based on a shockingly true story, The Serpent is a Netflix original limited series. Set in the 1970s about murderer and thief Charles Sobhraj, it will have you on the edge of your seat from the very beginning — an absolute MUST for murder mystery fans.
5. Brooklyn Nine-Nine
Calling all fans of American sitcoms. Light-hearted and a delight to watch, Brooklyn Nine-Nine is a comedy television series that follows New York Detective Jake Peralta as he and his squad solve crimes and get into some hilarious situations. With its final 8th season set to be released in August 2021, you can take your time to binge the previous 7 seasons on Netflix!
Top 5 movies
1. We Can Be Heroes
A follow-up to 2005’s The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl in 3D, this is a fantastic family-friendly flick that everyone will surely enjoy from start to finish. With a stellar cast that includes Pedro Pascal from the Game of Throne series, this is one film not to miss.
2. John Wick
If you loved Keanu Reeves in the Matrix franchise, this is another neo-noir action thriller to catch. A surprisingly good-natured film that covers the ups and downs of John Wick, its dazzling action choreography will have you reminiscing about scenes from the Matrix — or not. And guess what? John Wick: Chapter 2 is also available for viewing!
3. Saving Private Ryan
A classic story about a group of soldiers from the USA who have to go behind enemy lines during WWII to find and rescue one of their own. Starring Matt Damon, a true masterpiece.
4. Madagascar
Another one for the family, join Alex, Glorio, Melman, and Marty on their wild adventure as they escape from the New York Central Zoo joined by 4 fugitive penguins. Their hilarious antics will get you in stitches!
5. Blade: Trinity
A work of art in terms of the cinematography, a vampire known as ‘Blade’ joins forces with the Nightstalkers as he faces his opponent - Dracula.
M1’s Netflix subscription offers
Now you know what to watch on Netflix, it’s time to subscribe! And when you’re with M1, you can simply add your Netflix deal to your monthly bill.
Starting from just $11.98/mth for a basic Netflix subscription plan, you can sign up for Netflix plans easily and quickly. If you have any questions at all about the M1 Netflix deals, be sure to check out our list of FAQs.
What to Watch on TVBAnywhere+ This Year
With a subscription to TVB, Hong Kong drama and variety shows are just the tip of the iceberg. There’s a huge selection of fantastic movies available for streaming on TVBAnywhere+ too! But whether you already have a subscription or you’d like to sign up for TVB shows now, be sure to check out these 5 amazing Hong Kong TVB dramas:
1. Wonder Women
When fashionable housewife Lan Fei’s husband cheats on her and moves out of their apartment, she rents out one of the rooms to Wing Ho-Tin to help make ends meet. A tall, rich and handsome man, you’ll have to find out for yourselves what happens next!
2. Square Pegs
A mixture of drama, romance, and mystery, spiteful stepmother Mrs Ling orchestrates a swap so Choi Fong ends up married to the village idiot. As she plots to escape her marriage, plenty of drama ensues and you can already imagine the adventure this award-winning show will take you on.
3. Forensic Heroes
Follow the lives of forensic investigators and police officers in the Hong Kong police force as they use their specialist skill sets to solve complex and intricate crimes. Produced by TVB themselves, watch as the characters fight for the side of justice.
4. The Greed of Man
A heart-wrenching story about a family stripped of their fortune from poor investment decisions and the shocking tribulations one of the financiers puts the already-destitute family through. First broadcast in 1992, it gives viewers a glimpse into what corruption looks like.
5. Love is Beautiful
Ling Wan and Cho Cho, two friends who grew up together, are mocked for being ugly in, ironically, a village called "Mei Yun Chuen" (Village of Beautiful People). As the emperor falls for Ling Wan’s kindness, watch the story unfold as Cho Cho is fuelled by jealousy.
What to Watch on Viu Premium This Year
Krazy for Korean Kontent? You’ll surely enjoy a Viu Premium plan which gives you all the K-dramas, variety shows and movies you could ever want! If you don’t have a Viu Premium plan yet, M1 offers up to 12 months free when you sign up (or re-contract) on any 2-year mobile or Fibre Broadband 1Gbps plan — check out the M1 Viu Premium deals here.
In the meantime, let’s get into what we reckon are the 5 best in Viu shows and movies you just have to watch:
1. Mr. Queen
A delightful combination of comedy, fantasy, and romance, Mr. Queen is about a chef from our time who somehow finds himself waking up in the body of a queen (Queen Cheorin) from the Joseon dynasty era. As you can imagine, there are many hilarious moments which take place in this show!
2. Parasite
There is a good reason why Parasite won four Academy Awards. It’s an incredibly well-written film based around two families: one poor and struggling, the other incredibly well-off. A social commentary on the wealth divide in Korea - and arguably around the world – this is one film you don’t want to miss.
3. Goblin
What do you get when a military general from the Goryeo dynasty, cursed with immortality, becomes roommates with the grim reaper by accident? This fantastic drama series, with elements of romance and comedy called Goblin, that’s what! Also known as “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God,” it became a cultural phenomenon when it was first released in Korea. Covering the story of an immortal man searching for his one true love to lift his curse, this one is a definite tear-jerker.
4. Taxi Driver
An action-packed vigilante series, Taxi Driver is the new kid on the block, released in April 2021. The plot revolves around Kim Do-Ki, who becomes a driver for Rainbow Taxi Company, offering luxury “revenge-call” services. Feeling wronged and broken by his mother’s murder, he works as a vigilante to avenge those whom the law neglected. This show also touches on taboo topics that plague modern Korean society.
5. When the Weather is Fine
A quaint and quiet bookstore in Bookhyun Village, part of the South Korean countryside, is the centrepiece in a story about love, forgiveness, and healing. Refreshingly different from other K-dramas, this is one to add to your list if you like slow and thoughtful dramas.
Please note: There are licensing agreements for each region where each of the streaming services is available, which limits access to specific content in that region. As such, availability of each of the aforementioned TV shows and movies may differ depending on where you are located.