Duffer brothers pivot to pure horror with 'something’s coming'
The creators of Stranger Things, the Netflix juggernaut that redefined streaming for years, have quietly shifted gears. While Upside Down Pictures, their production company, has remained active, their latest project, Something’s Coming, marks a stark departure from the nostalgic sci-fi horror that made them global sensations—and initial reactions are overwhelmingly positive.
A genre shift: from demogorgons to paranoia
Don't expect the familiar Stranger Things formula. Though the Duffer brothers serve as producers, Something’s Coming is helmed by writer Haley Z. Boston and director Weronika Tofilska, granting them creative autonomy. The shift is deliberate: the series plunges headfirst into the realm of pure, unadulterated horror, foregoing the blend of coming-of-age drama and supernatural thrills that defined their previous work. The premise itself—a wedding on the precipice of disaster—is deceptively simple.
The story unfolds in the unsettling days leading up to a wedding. The bride, venturing to her fiancé’s family home just before the ceremony, finds herself confronting a series of increasingly bizarre and disturbing events. What begins as an awkward introduction quickly spirals into a descent into paranoia and dread, leaving the audience questioning the very fabric of reality.
Camila Morronedelivers a compelling performance as the increasingly distraught bride, supported by a strong ensemble cast including Jennifer Jason Leigh, Adam DiMarco, and Ted Levine. The ensemble creates an atmosphere of palpable tension, amplifying the psychological horror at the series' core.
Critical acclaim: a surprise success
Despite the pedigree of the Duffer brothers, initial expectations for Something’s Coming were tempered. The shift in genre and new creative team raised questions. But the critics who’ve seen it are singing a different tune. Currently, the series boasts a remarkable 90% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes—a testament to the show’s surprising effectiveness and a welcome deviation from the often-predictable landscape of streaming horror.
Something’s Coming, an eight-episode miniseries clocking in at 40-60 minutes per episode, is now streaming on Netflix. Forget the lengthy binge-watching sessions; this one demands a focused viewing experience, best enjoyed in a single, unsettling sitting.
The series proves that the Duffer brothers' ability to craft compelling narratives transcends genre limitations. They've not only handed the reins to a talented new team but have also demonstrated a willingness to embrace creative risks—a move that has resulted in a genuinely unsettling and critically acclaimed horror debut. The success of Something’s Coming suggests that Upside Down Pictures isn’t just a production company; it’s a breeding ground for innovative storytelling, regardless of the monsters lurking within.