The new Netflix series, Wayward, delves into the dark corners of the troubled teen industry, transforming this theme into a cult thriller that promises to capture the attention of viewers. Created and starring Mae Martin, known for her work in the romantic comedy series Feel Good, Wayward presents an intriguing narrative where the fates of two main characters intersect: Abbie, a teenager who is kidnapped, and Alex Dempsey, a police officer investigating the mysterious Tall Pines academy, an establishment with questionable therapy practices.
Police Trying to Uncover the Truth
The plot unfolds in 1997, allowing the series to explore the issue of abuse in institutions designed for the treatment of adolescents without the influence of the internet, although it presents some anachronisms. Structured in two timelines, the story follows Abbie being searched for by her best friend Leila, while Alex and his wife Laura move to a quiet town in hopes of starting a family. Both narratives converge at Tall Pines Academy, which is presented as a safe place but hides dark secrets.
The cast is one of the biggest draws of the series, highlighting the performances of Toni Collette as Evelyn Wade, the charismatic leader of the academy, and Mae Martin as Alex Dempsey. Collette delivers a performance that oscillates between maternal and sinister, bringing a unique complexity to her character. The series unsettlingly addresses the issues of abuse in these institutions, a matter that resonated in the testimony of figures like Paris Hilton before the U.S. Congress.
As Alex begins to uncover the truth behind Tall Pines, the series turns into a thriller reminiscent of titles like True Detective and Sharp Objects, capturing the audience’s interest with its tense narrative and unexpected twists. With only eight episodes, Wayward is set to be a phenomenon to watch, providing viewers with an intense and immersive experience that will keep them on the edge of their seats.
