If you're looking to dive into a show that will keep you on the edge of your seat, Netflix's latest disaster drama, “La Palma,” is a great place to start. Directed by Kasper Balfoid, the show debuted on the platform last week on December 12 and is already climbing the charts, surpassing “Black Doves,” one of my favorite thrillers of the year.

As of this writing (December 17), “La Palma” has surged into Netflix's top 10, reaching #1. This is quite impressive for a show that has only been on the streaming service for four days and may not move from the top spot for some time.

The show follows a determined young scientist who fights to warn the world of a massive volcanic eruption that has the potential to cause a global disaster. Meanwhile, a Norwegian family navigates the escalating threat of ecological catastrophe.

Fans of intense disaster dramas like “Chernobyl” and “The Impossible” may not want to miss “La Palma,” now available for streaming. But being No. 1 doesn't necessarily mean it's worth it. Here's what you need to know about “La Palma” and whether it's worth putting on your watch list.

On the scenic island of “La Palma,” a tragic accident involving a glass boat claims the life of an unsuspecting tourist. Soon after, Fredrik (Anders Versmo Christiansen), Jennifer (Ingrid Bolso Berdal), and their children, Sara (Alma Günther) and Tobias (Bernard Storm Lager), arrive for their annual vacation. Upgraded to a luxurious room, the trip seems to be off to a lucky start, but that good fortune may not last long.

Meanwhile, geologists Marie (Thea Sophie Loch Ness) and Haukur (Olafur Dari Olafsson) discover startling evidence of an impending volcanic eruption. With the island of La Palma reeling, Marie and Haukur must convince their boss, Alvaro (Jorge de Juan), to take action before it is too late.

La Palma is a four-part disaster show set on the westernmost island of the Canary Islands, produced by Martin Sundland, Lars Gudmestad, and Harald Rosenløw Eeg (The Wave), directed by Kasper Barfoed, Gudmestad and Rosenløw Eeg co-wrote the script. The film stars Thea Sophie Loch Ness, Anders Barthmo Christiansen, and Ingrid Borso Berdal.

The story takes place on the island of La Palma, where the Cumbre Vieja volcano erupted in 2021. Although the drama is fictional, it draws heavily on real-world events and features intense, realistic action that places the viewer in the midst of an ecological crisis.

While it may seem odd to present a disaster series during the festive season, many of us seem ready to enjoy an existential drama along with our holiday celebrations. What's more, the family of four is set to visit Spain during the Christmas season.

If a gripping disaster drama is your thing, “La Palma” may be worth adding to your watch list. While the Rotten Tomatoes score is not yet available, the audience rating is currently at 35% (as of December 17), which is not exactly high.

Many viewers have pointed out problems with the storyline, describing it as a “plot breakdown” and criticizing the script despite praising its “stunning visuals.” However, some fans found it a fascinating experience, with comments such as “I have never been so engrossed in a natural disaster show.”

According to two critical reviews currently posted on the site, both are favorable: Archi Sengupta of LeisureByte says: “La Palma is fun, never boring to watch, and a fascinating look at a terrifying reality. It's a fascinating look at a horrifying reality. On the other hand, Chris Joyce of Movies and Munchies believes that “the characterization is uneven and the plot incredibly convenient, but the stunning visuals, palpable moral dilemmas, and family dynamics offset the flaws, so it's not a storytelling We think it's not a complete failure.”

From the mixed reviews, it is difficult to determine whether “La Palma” is a must-see for everyone. But if you like stories that delve into complex family dynamics and the tensions of natural disasters, this show will satisfy on both fronts.

Don't like it; check out this week's new shows on Netflix or stream these miniseries on Prime Video for quality entertainment.

Stream “La Palma” on Netflix now.