When I first heard about The Boroughs, Netflix’s latest offering, I couldn’t help but roll my eyes at the inevitable comparisons to Stranger Things. Yes, it’s executive produced by the Duffer Brothers, and yes, there’s a supernatural mystery at its core. But to dismiss it as a mere spin-off would be a mistake—and a massive one at that. The Boroughs is its own beast, and what makes it particularly fascinating is how it flips the script on the coming-of-age trope. Instead of kids battling monsters, we get retirees grappling with existential dread, supernatural threats, and the indignities of aging. It’s a refreshing change, and one that feels oddly timely in an era where we’re constantly bombarded with stories about youth.
From my perspective, the show’s greatest strength lies in its characters. Alfred Molina as Sam is a revelation—a man who’s equal parts stubborn and vulnerable, resisting the life he’s been forced into while secretly yearning for connection. What many people don’t realize is how rare it is to see older characters written with this much depth. They’re not just sidekicks or comic relief; they’re the heart of the story. Denis O’Hare as Wally, a terminally ill former doctor, is another standout. His zest for life, despite knowing his time is limited, is both heartbreaking and inspiring. If you take a step back and think about it, this is what television should be doing more of—giving older actors meaty roles that challenge stereotypes.
One thing that immediately stands out is the show’s setting: a meticulously curated retirement community in the New Mexico desert. It’s a place that feels both idyllic and suffocating, a well-worn trope of planned communities that are too good to be true. Personally, I think this is where The Boroughs shines brightest. The retro-futuristic architecture, the gated entrance, the eerie silence—it all adds up to a sense of unease that’s hard to shake. And then there’s the sci-fi horror element, which feels like a nod to Cocoon but with a darker edge. What this really suggests is that the show isn’t just about monsters; it’s about the monsters we create in our pursuit of perfection.
But let’s talk about the monsters—both literal and metaphorical. The supernatural threats in The Boroughs are intriguing, but they’re not the main event. What’s more compelling is the way the show tackles the treatment of the elderly. Even in a place as luxurious as The Boroughs, there’s disrespect, cruelty, and a sense of being forgotten. This raises a deeper question: How do we, as a society, value the lives of those who are no longer in their prime? It’s a theme that’s often overlooked in mainstream media, and I applaud the show for tackling it head-on.
Now, I’ll admit, the plot can feel a bit predictable at times. The mystery, while engaging, doesn’t exactly break new ground. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t need to. The joy of The Boroughs isn’t in the twists and turns; it’s in the journey. Watching these characters navigate their fears, their losses, and their newfound friendships is a pleasure in itself. It’s like hanging out with your favorite uncles and aunts, except they’re solving a sci-fi mystery instead of arguing over Thanksgiving dinner.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how the show balances nostalgia with a forward-looking perspective. While Stranger Things leans heavily into the 80s, The Boroughs draws on the atomic age and mid-century modern aesthetics. It’s a clever choice, one that underscores the characters’ own nostalgia for a time that’s long gone. But it’s not just about looking back; it’s about moving forward, even when the end is in sight.
In my opinion, The Boroughs is a show that defies easy categorization. It’s part sci-fi, part horror, part dramedy, and part social commentary. It’s not perfect—it can get a little sentimental, and the pacing occasionally drags—but its flaws are outweighed by its strengths. The performances alone are worth the price of admission, and the themes it explores are both timely and timeless.
As I reflect on the series, I’m struck by how it challenges our perceptions of aging. These characters aren’t just waiting for the end; they’re living, fighting, and laughing in the face of it. It’s a reminder that life doesn’t stop when you hit a certain age—it just takes on new forms. And that, to me, is the most powerful message of all.
So, is The Boroughs like Stranger Things? Sure, on the surface. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find a show that’s entirely its own. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling, and a reminder that even in the most familiar genres, there’s always room for something new. Personally, I can’t wait to see where it goes next.
