Pop Culture Happy Hour Wayward
Sep 29, 2025
Dive into the haunting world of a new Netflix series featuring Toni Collette as a sinister figure running a troubled teen facility. A police officer uncovers unsettling truths in a seemingly idyllic town. The podcast explores eerie small-town narratives and the show's chilling portrayal of the troubled teen industry. Insights into character dynamics, including a timid trans character, add depth. The discussion highlights standout performances and the eerie atmosphere that keeps viewers engaged while pondering unresolved mysteries.
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Episode notes
Charming Evil In A Small Town
- Wayward centers on a sinister reform school in a picturesque town led by Toni Collette's Evelyn.
- The show frames danger through charm, making community acceptance part of the menace.
Cop Moves In With A Loyal Graduate
- Alex moves to Tall Pines with his wife Laura, a former student still loyal to Evelyn.
- His growing unease about Laura's relationship with Evelyn drives the central conflict.
Slow-Burn Mood Over Shock
- The series blends mood and slow-burn dread across eight episodes rather than pure jump scares.
- That pacing lets viewers absorb the world and its eerie rituals at a deliberate pace.