We all enjoy believing that we wouldn’t become part of a cult. Yet *Wayward*, the Netflix original mini-series, provocatively poses the question, “What if it were led by Toni Collette?” Let’s be honest, you’d likely feel compelled to follow her anywhere, if only for the storyline.
The Australian actress is a master of transformation, capable of portraying the quirky yet endearing protagonist of *Muriel’s Wedding*, the heartfelt mother in *About a Boy*, the fiercely protective Philadelphia mom in *The Sixth Sense*, and the intensely commanding “I am your mother” figure in *Hereditary*. In *Wayward*, she embodies a maternal role that is both inviting and intimidating, utterly captivating.
Evelyn Wade sports long, flowing blonde locks, oversized eyeglasses, and a wardrobe filled with cardigans, suggesting a blend of sincere intellect and earthy bohemian charm. She presides over Tall Pines Academy, a reform institution aimed at helping teens “navigate the challenges of adolescence.”
However, from the gripping opening sequence of *Wayward*, show creator and co-star Mae Martin reveals a dark secret: This seemingly promising reform initiative in a charming town is not as it appears.
**Wayward kicks off with a dramatic plunge.**
On a shadowy evening, a teenage boy recklessly navigates through trees, escaping from something or someone. His desperation drives him to leap into a lake, but what he encounters beneath its surface is surreal: a luminous door. Swimming around him are the enigmatic words of an unseen woman, who mentions his mother, a bell, and a door. What might this signify?
Martin takes a measured approach to uncovering the enigma of *Wayward*. Throughout the eight episodes of this mini-series, much of the storyline unfolds in Tall Pines, Vermont, a snug locale where boundaries are so blurred that residences lack doors between spaces. This absence of privacy astonishes Alex (Martin), a police officer joining the local force at the urging of his wife, Laura (Sarah Gadon), who previously attended Tall Pines Academy. Facing some career challenges, this married couple seeks a new beginning, and what better setting than the place where former troubled teen Laura found her footing?
Evelyn is absolutely thrilled to greet them in town, but is less forthcoming about the Academy. Shortly after their arrival, Alex feels an irresistible pull toward the institution — or more precisely, its troubled adolescents. Abbie (Sydney Topliffe) comes from Canada and has connected with a poor influence, her best friend Leila (Alyvia Alyn Lind), who is dealing with grief through substance abuse, partying, and a 26-year-old boyfriend who’s dull as a burnt-out light bulb. The girls’ parents hope Tall Pines will be a pivotal moment for both. However, Evelyn’s enticing assurances leave most adults uninterested in her methods — except Alex.
**Mae Martin has developed a gripping young adult drama with adult complexities.**
In many teen dramas, adults are often depicted as clichéd figures of overbearing mothers or neglectful fathers, or as completely absent to avoid interfering with the plot. *Wayward* sidesteps this potential flaw by quickly writing out the uninspired parents; they remain behind as the youth enter Tall Pines. Nevertheless, the theme of parenthood is central to the series, especially since Laura is expecting.
A trans man enthusiastic about embracing fatherhood, Alex aims to support his wife in every way possible. However, he’s perplexed by her apparent lack of interest in pregnancy matters, despite her growing belly. Alex finds a way to test his paternal instincts by safeguarding the Academy’s kids, even if it contradicts Evelyn’s regulations.
Through a hidden walkie-talkie, Alex communicates with Abbie about the reality lurking behind the Academy’s cheerful façade. However, Evelyn, a maternal figure to both Laura and much of the community, possesses a sway that even law enforcement can’t match. Plus, she appears so kind. And she’s assisting kids! So, doubting her feels morally wrong, akin to questioning your mother or a higher power. (A truly YA dilemma!)
In addition to creating the series, Martin shoulders a significant portion of the story as a performer, taking part in scenes of frantic teenage confessions, intense confrontations with his police partner, challenging exchanges with Evelyn, and intimate moments with his wife. Gadon, a pillar in Canadian television with shows like *Letterkenny* and *Alias Grace*, provides supporting strength and showcases a haunting arc of her own. Each of their narratives gradually unveils the mystery surrounding Evelyn Wade through flashbacks and investigation. Fans of crime dramas will savor every taut moment. Yet, *Wayward* has even more to offer.
**Wayward provides a novel viewpoint.**
As Laura and Alex endeavor to make Tall Pines a safe haven (or at least less intimidating) before their baby arrives,