The Internet has gone into a frenzy with the release of Netflix’s new show, Baby Reindeer and rightfully so. Everybody that’s talking about the show has binge-watched it in less than a day, I’m certain. Baby Reindeer is haunting, psychologically disturbing and intense. It’s based on the true story of how comedian Richard Gadd’s life was turned upside down when a female stalker decided to fixate on him. Baby Reindeer delves into the territory of responses towards sexual trauma, mental health and delusional behaviour.
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Despite tackling all of these disturbing themes, this show manages to make you snicker with its dark comedy. Richard Gadd as Donny and Jessica Gunning as the stalker Martha deliver phenomenal performances. If you’re on the lookout for an equally anguishing TV series that twists your mind and keeps you stuck to your seat, we’ve got you covered with our recommendations.
I May Destroy You
Even though it’s been over four years since I May Destroy You hit our screens, it still stands relevant even today. Michaela Cole has given a hard-hitting performance as Arabella Essiuedu who suffers from sexual trauma on a night out in London. It explores the perils of self-actualisation after assault along with how society views consent and victim support. Even though this show explores some gut-wrenching themes it does so with a fairly-sized side dish of satire.
Stream on: Jio Cinema
The Stranger
As an avid reader of everything Harlan Coben, watching The Stranger was nothing short of a treat. If you’re someone who enjoys watching thrillers that make you question plots and characters, this show is right up your alley. Richard Armitage plays Adam Price who is ambushed by a stranger who reveals a few of his wife’s covert acts from the past. The premise of this show is unearthing tough secrets that can break a family.
Stream on: Netflix
Chloe
Often, psychological thrillers miss the mark because of too many elements being involved, but not Chloe. Social media is at the centre of our lives with most of us practically living on Instagram and Chloe shows us how dangerous that can be. This show depicts how social media obsession can lead to dangerous situations with Becky (Erin Doherty) stalking her childhood friend Chloe (Poppy Gilbert) on social media. She begins to obsess over Chloe’s aspirational social media posts that pushes her to the extreme. Watching Becky tactfully get away with the crimes she commits will keep you on your toes throughout the series.
Stream on: Prime Video
Swarm
This TV show had me on the edge of my seat throughout. By tackling themes of excessive obsession that blur the lines between reality and fiction, Swarm tells the story of a young fan obsessed with her favourite music artist. It does a stellar job of showcasing how fans often put celebrities on a pedestal which can result in toxic behaviours. Created by Donald Glover and Janine Nabers, Swarm follows Dre, a woman who is consumed by her love for a pop star. Part of a fandom known as ‘The Swarm’, this woman goes on to delve deep into her delusions and commit crimes.
Stream on: Prime Video
Don’t F*** With Cats
Top on my list of ‘Documentaries that can be watched over and over again’, Don’t Fuck With Cats is all parts harrowing and nail-biting. It begins as an online manhunt of Internet sleuths trying to find the identity of a killer that posts feline snuff films on the Internet. Slowly, his crimes escalate and the ordeal evolves into something dangerous with governments and armed forces coming into the picture.
Stream on: Netflix
