Netflix’s 5-Part Crime Series Should’ve Gone Wrong, But It Became A 10/10 Thriller

by

Crime shows are hugely popular, but it’s surprisingly difficult to create a truly great one. Many of the longest-running and most-watched crime dramas are ‘procedurals’ – shows where detectives investigate a new case each week. While these shows are reliable, they aren’t always the most original or thrilling options available.

Some shows are willing to be different and experiment with their format, often by shifting the focus of the story. These shows might explore crimes through the eyes of victims, or even the criminals themselves, which can be both captivating and controversial. While this approach can be exciting, it sometimes pushes boundaries that viewers aren’t comfortable with.

You Dealt With Some Incredibly Controversial Topics

The series You, led by Penn Badgley as the captivating but dangerous Joe Goldberg, centers around a seemingly normal book lover who develops obsessive crushes on women. Right from the beginning, in the very first episode, Joe shows just how closely he watches those he’s interested in, and things quickly escalate from there.

The show consistently tackles difficult and serious issues, starting with its first season. It explores themes like stalking, unhealthy relationships, violence, abuse, kidnapping, and drug use. While these are heavy topics, they are central to the entire series and handled with care.

Netflix Has Faced Backlash For Heavy Subject Matter Before

TV shows often tackle difficult topics and can be a source of comfort, but focusing closely on both victims and abusers can be deeply upsetting for viewers. Netflix, in particular, has made mistakes handling sensitive subjects in the past.

When Netflix released its original series, 13 Reasons Why, based on Jay Asher’s novel, it faced strong criticism. The show dealt with difficult topics like suicide, grief, and abuse in a way many considered irresponsible, and Netflix ended up making major changes to the series after it had already premiered.

The themes explored in the You series are often very serious, and the characters deal with deeply upsetting problems. Given the controversy and negative reaction to 13 Reasons Why, it’s surprising Netflix created another show tackling such difficult subjects.

You Became One Of The Most Popular Shows On Netflix

Even though it dealt with dark themes and featured a main character often responsible for unsettling events, You still resonated with viewers and became a popular show on Netflix. While some scenes, especially in the last season, were intense, the show was ultimately a success.

While both shows dealt with dark subject matter, You resonated with viewers in a way 13 Reasons Why didn’t. 13 Reasons Why was very direct in tackling difficult themes, whereas You revealed the darker aspects of its protagonist, Joe, more gradually. You also had a distinct style, almost presenting a fantastical version of Joe, and frequently used an unreliable narrator, making it clear he couldn’t be trusted.

Furthermore, the acting in You, particularly Penn Badgley’s performance, deliberately highlighted the monstrous aspects of Joe Goldberg’s personality. While earlier seasons hinted at some moral ambiguity, the show consistently confirms that he is fundamentally a dark character by the series’ conclusion.

As a total film and TV fanatic, I have to say this series really nailed it – it did things other shows just couldn’t. Now, it wasn’t perfect, and looking back, some of the earlier seasons definitely flirted with problematic themes, even romanticizing stalking, if I’m being honest. But the creators thankfully course-corrected, and by the end, there was absolutely no question where they stood on those issues. It was a really satisfying evolution to watch.

Read More

2026-03-14 17:18