This week, MGM+ launched The Institute, a new thriller series inspired by Stephen King's gripping novel of the same name. Did it live up to expectations? In short: yes. The premiere delivers a dark, character-driven story that sets the stage for a haunting and emotional journey. Here's what stood out.
The series opens with a chilling scene: 14-year-old Luke Ellis (Joe Freeman), a gifted child with psychic abilities, is kidnapped from his home and brought to a secret facility known only as “The Institute.” There, other children with telekinesis (TK) or telepathy (TP) are also held captive. But this is no sanctuary—it’s a lab where kids are manipulated, tested, and exploited by Ms. Sigsby (Mary-Louise Parker) and her staff, who claim their mission is to “save the world.”
Parker brings a calm yet disturbing presence to Sigsby—her sweet demeanor hiding a deeply sinister core. Her interactions with the children, particularly the punishments she oversees, make it clear this is psychological horror with teeth.
Meanwhile, in a seemingly separate storyline, we meet Tim Jamieson (Ben Barnes), a former cop who arrives in a small town looking to start over. Now working as a night knocker (an unarmed night patrol), Jamieson seems quiet and guarded—but a violent encounter with two robbers quickly reveals his bravery and hints that his story may eventually cross paths with the children’s plight.
Back inside The Institute, Luke quickly learns the consequences of resistance—whether it’s being physically assaulted or facing invasive procedures like ear implants that allow for total control. Despite the fear and uncertainty, he begins bonding with other kids, including Kalisha and Nicky. Together, they begin hatching a plan to escape, and discover there may be another, even more powerful child who could change everything.
Freeman gives a quietly commanding performance, balancing vulnerability with intelligence as Luke. His chemistry with the other kids helps give the show emotional grounding, even as it plunges deeper into mystery and dread.
The pacing of the premiere is measured—building tension instead of rushing to explain too much, which is exactly what you want in a Stephen King adaptation. By the end of the episode, you're fully immersed in this eerie world, and the promise of what’s to come feels strong.
While the premiere primarily introduces the dual narrative, it also brilliantly evokes a deep sense of dread and injustice. The pacing remains steady, gradually drawing viewers in with increasing intrigue rather than rushing through reveals, perfectly fitting a Stephen King adaptation.
For those looking for a dark, captivating thriller with compelling performances, The Institute truly matches the initial buzz and leaves you eager for more. Overall, I give this premiere a 8 out of 10.
Have you seen The Institute? What were your first impressions of MGM+'s new series? Did it live up to your expectations for a Stephen King adaptation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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