Top 7 Shows to Stream This Week

An entertaining comedy drama adapted from Carl Hiaasen’s 2013 novel about detective turned hotel inspector Andrew Yancy, portrayed by Vince Vaughn, takes center stage in “Bad Monkey.” Yancy, who was dismissed from the Miami Police Department, finds himself back in law enforcement, albeit indirectly, after discovering a severed arm during a fishing trip. Concurrently, the story explores Bahamian beach dweller Neville Stafford, played by Ronald Peet, as he struggles to save his dilapidated home from property developers. While the narrative eventually ties these tales together, the focus remains on its picaresque, meandering, slightly stonerish atmosphere. Dry humor and Vaughn’s portrayal as the tenacious Yancy stand out as highlights. Apple TV+, Wednesday 14 August.

“The Twelve,” an Australian crime drama, shifts attention from the accused to the jurors. The new season brings a new, gripping case: wealthy cattle farmer Bernice Price is found deceased at the bottom of a well with a head injury, clearly pointing to foul play. Renowned barristers Brett Colby (Sam Neill) and Frances O’Connor’s Meredith Nelson-Moore represent the accused, collaborating over wine in a hotel room. The jury comprises a former football star, a local hero, and two ex-lovers, adding layers of complexity to the unfolding drama. ITVX, Thursday 15 August.

From South Korea comes “Romance in the House,” a story laced with family conflicts and rebirth. After a string of failed business ventures leaves them facing financial ruin, the family’s father, Byeon Moo-jin (Ji Jin-hee), is exiled under harsh circumstances. Eleven years later, Byeon returns, newly wealthy and determined to restore his relationship with his children and wife, Geum Ae-yeon (Kim Ji-soo). Questions arise about how he acquired his wealth and whether his intentions are genuine. This narrative unfolds with a mix of romance, betrayal, and potential reconciliation in a beautifully melodramatic story. Netflix, out now.

“Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” returns with new trials and explorations for young Jedi trainees. The series, designed to indoctrinate young viewers into the expansive Star Wars franchise, follows Jedi youngsters Kai Brightstar, Lys Solay, and Nubs as they venture across the galaxy. Through their adventures, they assist those in need and learn the ways of the force. The show’s mission of training young padawans remains slick, stylish, and slightly cheesy. Disney+, Wednesday 14 August.

The gritty comedy-drama “Stags” poses a serious twist on a seemingly reckless question: “Have you never seen Banged Up Abroad?” After an attempt to smuggle illicit substances back from a South American stag do, a group of Londoners, starring Asim Chaudhry and Charlie Cooper, finds themselves in a terrifying prison island. The prison’s own distorted internal logic sets the stage for a nightmarish scenario. The stakes escalate rapidly for these unprepared Brits—can they survive the ordeal? Paramount+, Thursday 15 August.

The return of “Emily in Paris” promises a continued indulgence in the glossy, idealized landscape of the eponymous city. As Emily Cooper, played by Lily Collins, steps back into her high-fashion shoes, she realizes that Paris is teeming with attractive men, but the perpetual love triangle involving her, Gabriel, and Alfie is far from over. The series remains unapologetically shallow, appeasing fans anticipating the scenic vistas of the Eiffel Tower during the Paris Olympics. Netflix, Thursday 15 August.

From the Walter Presents collection, “Evil” portrays a riveting class and school-based drama in 1950s Stockholm. The plot follows Erik, a troubled teenager expelled for fighting and running a money-lending gang. Sent to a prestigious boarding school with hopes of reform, Erik soon clashes with the students who attempt to force him into submission through brutal traditional abuses. However, these posh kids are in for a surprise—Erik is not an easy target. Isac Calmroth delivers a standout performance as Erik. Channel 4, Friday 16 August.