The Boroughs review: a supernatural mystery with emotional depth

The Guardian has published a review of The Boroughs, a new supernatural murder-mystery series streaming on Netflix. Set within a retirement community in New Mexico, the show is executive produced by the Duffer Brothers, known for creating the hit series Stranger Things. The series features an ensemble cast including Alfred Molina, Jane Kaczmarek, Bill Pullman, Denis O’Hare, Geena Davis, Clarke Peters, and Alfre Woodard.

The review describes the series as witty, tender, and wise, noting its intelligent script and emotional depth. The narrative follows residents, particularly widower Sam Cooper played by Molina, as they confront a horrific creature and investigate strange occurrences. The plot includes elements such as a creature in the walls, mysterious thefts of quartz-containing items, mass bird deaths, and a tree bearing glittering orange fruit.

The review highlights the show’s exploration of themes relevant to the ageing demographic, including grief, mortality, and the fear of dying alone. The protagonist, Sam Cooper, is a widower recently moved into the community by his daughter and son-in-law. The review draws comparisons to The White Lotus regarding the depiction of affluent American retirement living.

Creators Jeffrey Addiss and Will Matthews are described as relative newcomers to television writing, though they have established credits in fantasy genres through work on The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance and Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim. The review positions the show as a blend of monster tropes and emotional storytelling, channeling the spirit of Steven Spielberg.

The Guardian’s critique suggests that the series offers a realistic yet fantastical look at life in a retirement village. The review notes that the show takes its time to build its world, moving at the pace of its inhabitants. This allows for the development of a diverse group of characters who form a team to face the supernatural threats within their community.