Lou

Lou is currently streaming in Australia on Netflix, and in the US on Netflix, and its case-by-case structure never gets in the way of the bigger story. It knows exactly what kind of film it is from the opening scene, and never loses that thread. Its 6/10 TMDB score, built from 784 ratings, reflects a title that consistently delivers. Allison Janney anchors it, but the writing does the real work. There is no real reason to keep putting it off — it is right there on Netflix.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, Lou is worth clearing space for. At its heart, Lou understands what makes crime drama work — character first, plot second. A young girl is kidnapped during a powerful storm. Her mother joins forces with her mysterious neighbour to set off in pursuit of the kidnapper. Their journey will test their limits and expose the dark secrets of their past. Allison Janney and Jurnee Smollett lead a cast that gives the tension real weight. Lou came out in 2022. The plot mechanics of Lou never overwhelm the human cost underneath them. It delivers reliably on what it promises, which is more than most of its competition manages.

For anyone who wants their crime drama to earn its twists, Lou delivers. It stands on its own even without an obvious comparison point. Best experienced as a single, sustained watch from start to finish. Watch Allison Janney work — it is a masterclass in the genre. Few crime dramas earn their twists this consistently.