Yellowjackets

Synopsis

Yellowjackets is a gripping psychological thriller television series that intertwines the harrowing survival story of a high school girls' soccer team stranded in the remote northern wilderness after a plane crash in 1996 with their present-day lives as adults grappling with the lasting trauma and secrets from that time. Featuring Melanie Lynskey, the show artfully explores themes of survival, friendship, and the dark depths of human nature, blending coming-of-age drama with intense suspense and mysterious elements. The narrative shifts between the chaotic, dangerous days in the wild and the complex, troubled adulthood of the survivors 25 years later, revealing how their past continues to shape their present.

Cast

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  Melanie Lynskey

  Shauna Sadecki

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  Tawny Cypress

  Taissa Turner

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  Sophie Nélisse

  Teen Shauna Shipman

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  Jasmin Savoy Brown

  Teen Taissa Turner

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  Sophie Thatcher

  Teen Natalie Scatorccio

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  Sammi Hanratty

  Teen Misty Quigley

Reviews

Yellowjackets has garnered generally positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. On Rotten Tomatoes, the series holds an impressive approval rating, praised for its engrossing storytelling and layered performances, especially highlighting Melanie Lynskey's compelling portrayal. The critical consensus notes the show's unique blend of psychological thriller and character drama, commending its ability to balance suspense with emotional depth. IMDb users have rated it 7.7 out of 10, reflecting strong audience appreciation for the show's intense atmosphere and well-developed characters. Metacritic scores the series favorably, underscoring its creative direction and narrative complexity. Some reviewers, however, point out that the show’s pacing may feel slow at times, and its dark tone may not appeal to all viewers. Nonetheless, many agree that Yellowjackets distinguishes itself through its ambitious storytelling structure and strong ensemble cast. Critics from The Guardian applauded the show’s ability to captivate with a mix of mystery and psychological depth, while Variety noted that its exploration of trauma and survival adds significant emotional weight beyond typical thriller conventions.