Set in the deceptively idyllic town of Tall Pines, Wayward unearths sinister secrets hidden within a rehabilitation school for troubled teens. The trailer opens with evocative visuals and a haunting voiceover, building an atmosphere thick with unease and curiosity.
The series, co-created and showrun by Mae Martin and Ryan Scott, stars Martin as Alex Dempsey, a police officer who moves to the town with their pregnant partner, Laura (Sarah Gadon), only to suspect something deeply wrong at the Tall Pines Academy. Toni Collette delivers a commanding, chilling performance as Evelyn Wade, the academy’s charismatic but potentially manipulative leader.
Also featured are Sydney Topliffe and Alyvia Alyn Lind as two students desperate to escape the academy, along with Brandon Jay McLaren, Patrick J. Adams, and others rounding out a compelling ensemble.
Psychological Horror with a Personal Touch
The trailer captures unsettling moments: seemingly innocent settings turning eerie, subtle clues of missing teens, and Evelyn’s unsettling tone juxtaposed with serene surroundings. A chilling rendition of In the Pines sung by Collette underscores the psychological dread. Martin likens the show’s vibe to taking characters from Booksmart and placing them into One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest—a blend of youthful spirit and institutional horror.
Release Info & Premiere Highlights
Wayward will premiere on Netflix on September 25, 2025, following its world premiere in the Primetime section at the Toronto International Film Festival.
