I’ve been discovering the many nature documentaries on offer, and I must say it’s a tonic to hang out with various animals and insects to escape the chaos of our world. They seem to have life all organised. Specialised probe lenses are used to get on the bees’ eye level, showcasing intricate details and behaviours in stunning close-ups. Hosted by Bertie Gregory who has a fondness for bees, he emphasises their critical role in the ecosystem, their intelligence, and the threats they face, through habitat loss and pesticide use. Protect the bees at all costs! We cannot do without them. We will starve!

This charming documentary series is narrated by Ryan Reynolds, and that was enough to get me in. He is witty and funny as he gives his perspective on the overlooked weirdos of the animal kingdom as opposed to the “celebrity animals.” Those with bizarre behaviours, unique survival skills, and shocking parenting strategies. I loved this one. What a wonderful variety of creatures we have in our world. Let us endeavour to keep it pristine for all of us.

This emotional three-part true-crime docuseries details the 2012 disappearance of a 16-year-old West Virginia girl. The film reveals how she was murdered by her closest friends, exploring the betrayal, social media evidence, and the tragic “why” behind the crime. It is told from the heartbreaking perspective of Skylar’s parents. The toxic jealousy behind the murder of their daughter is hard to understand. It is somewhat drawn out. The second episode could have been incorporated into the first and final episodes. A sad, unnecessary death, which highlights the peer pressure of teenagers of today.

To brighten up your day we give you food prepared and eaten with the backdrop of a glistening Sydney Harbour. Of course, it is not always like this, but Donna found our best days on which to present her gastronomic creations. However, I prefer a more low-key presentation, not having the time for the styling that Donna treats her friends to. Perhaps you do have the time so you will be more inventive with your table settings etc. It is visually relaxing and everything looks inviting. So, come on over.

Having not watched The Handmaid’s Tale in its entirety, I decided to dive into Margaret Atwood’s follow-up, which is as suspenseful as The Handmaid’s Tale, shifting focus from survival to the internal downfall of Gilead. Set 15 years later, it uses the masterful, manipulative voice of Aunt Lydia to create a riveting narrative, exploring the psychology of indoctrination and the normalisation of horrendous regimes, as a new generation of girls are moulded in Gilead. The book won the 2019 Booker Prize.

This is a spellbinding MCU spin-off that succeeds as a standalone thriller, anchored by Kathryn Hahn’s performance which has humour and darkness. It’s a witchy, dramatic adventure that thrives on its “coven” dynamic. There’s a mixture of light-heartedness and horror, which could be a little scary for children of a certain age. It’s enjoyable viewing, especially for fans.

I was in a quandary as to whether I would view this series, but I’m glad I did, just for Bryan Cranston’s scene where he has mind-altering substances to find his real self. He deserves an Emmy for that few minutes. Everyone is grown up, and Hal and Lois are slightly older, but possibly not any wiser. It’s a chaotic, nostalgic return to a family we are all fond of… at our place, anyway.

This is visually stunning and features a stellar ensemble cast led by Tom Hollander as Truman Capote. There are two seasons to revel in of this story of high-society betrayal with an overall portrait of how lonely it can be at the top. There is an opulent representation of 1960s/70s fashion and set design. The second series focuses on the fading era of the “Swans.” Excellent viewing.