I’m not a huge fan of Netflix Original Series, but The Stranger may have changed my opinion. I originally decided to watch it because it’s based off of Harlan Coben’s novel The Stranger. Although I have not read the book, I love psychological thrillers, and figured if it was based off one, then the show could be good. I don’t regret my decision at all. I do wish I would’ve read the book first though.
The Stranger is classified as a UK Crime Drama and reminds me of shows like The Fall and Broadchurch. Neither of which I enjoyed as much as The Stranger. If you’ve ever read Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn, then you might get a sense of deja vu while watching The Stranger. The plot lines are very similar. The show starts off with your average family man, Adam Price (played by Richard Armitage) being approached by a young and mysterious woman (played by Hannah John-Kamen). The woman reveals a secret to Adam about his wife forcing him to question his relationship with her. He ends up getting in an argument with his wife in which she reveals the partial truth, but keeps the majority of her story a secret. The next day, she’s gone and the community starts to unravel. I’m hesitant to share any more information than that because I don’t want to ruin all of the show’s surprises. I will say that just this one secret begins to reveal many more secrets around the Price’s entire community that makes it hard to trust any of the characters. I found myself asking questions such as, “Who are the good guys in this story,” “Are there any good guys,” “How do you know they’re not lying?”
This show was just released on January 30, but so far, it’s been receiving mixed reviews. Critics claim the show is so complicated that it makes it hard to follow. I would have to disagree. I think its twists is what makes it so engaging. If you’re paying attention you’ll be able to follow the plot just fine. For a Netflix Original, I’d say the acting is sufficient. One of my favorite parts of the show is its theme song “The Monster” by Walk the Car. It sets up each episode nicely with its intensity.
Overall, I would give this show a five out of five. To put into perspective how addicting it is, the show was released on January 30, and I was done with it by February 2. I highly recommend adding it to your watch list, especially if you enjoy psychological thrillers as much as I do. Be prepared to be slightly confused for awhile. It is a mystery after all. The ending will more than make up for it.
Here’s a link to the show’s trailer!
Here’s a link to the theme song!
FHS X-Ray 