Mae Martin acknowledges the potential confusion that viewers might experience while trying to unravel the mysteries of Tall Pines, the fictional Vermont village featured in the new Netflix series “Wayward,” which Martin conceived, scripted, and stars in. The show delves into the enigmatic world of Tall Pines Academy, a school led by the serene yet unsettling Evelyn Wade (portrayed by Toni Collette), where troubled teens are told cryptic phrases like “your mother has a door in her mouth.”
The narrative follows Alex Dempsey (played by Martin) as he witnesses perplexing events in Tall Pines, such as his wife Laura (Sarah Gadon) sleepwalking towards the lake in her hometown shortly after their return. The students at the academy voice concerns about hidden malevolence, with Canadian teens Abbie (Sydney Topliffe) and Leila (Alyvia Alyn Lind) taking action while others remain passive.
Martin acknowledges the unexpected dark tone of the show, contrasting with their previous lighthearted roles on programs like “Taskmaster” and their comedic ventures with Tig Notaro. The series quickly gained popularity, becoming the top English series on Netflix after its recent release following a premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival.
“Wayward” emphasizes its Canadian origins, intertwining Canadian themes and characters within the plot. The story revolves around Alex, a transplanted cop navigating his past and present in the peculiar town, and his friends Abbie and Leila uncovering the school’s dark secrets. The show’s Canadian identity is unapologetically prominent, emphasizing themes of survival and national pride.
While the series captures attention with its eerie atmosphere and thematic exploration of intimacy and horror, it falls slightly short of greatness due to scattered storytelling and unresolved mysteries. Martin’s debut project shows promise, hinting at potential for future episodes or projects to refine the show further.