The Stranger Netflix: Rotten Tomatoes Score & Review (2022)

Hey guys! Let's dive into The Stranger on Netflix and see what the buzz is all about, especially what Rotten Tomatoes has to say! This series had everyone talking, and we’re here to give you the lowdown on its critical reception and whether it's worth your binge-watching time.

What is "The Stranger" About?

Before we get into the Rotten Tomatoes score, let's quickly recap what The Stranger is all about. This gripping series, based on Harlan Coben's novel, throws you into the life of Adam Price, a seemingly ordinary family man. His world is turned upside down when a stranger reveals a shocking secret about his wife, Corinne. This revelation sends Adam on a quest for the truth, uncovering a web of lies, deceit, and dark secrets that threaten to destroy everything he holds dear.

The series is known for its twists and turns, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as each episode unravels more of the mystery. As Adam digs deeper, he discovers that he’s not the only one with secrets, and the stranger’s revelations have far-reaching consequences for many people in his community. The suspense builds as the characters’ lives intertwine, and the truth becomes increasingly elusive.

The Stranger excels in creating a sense of unease and paranoia. The writers masterfully use red herrings and unexpected plot twists to keep the audience guessing. Each character has their own hidden agenda, making it difficult to discern who can be trusted. The series also explores themes of identity, betrayal, and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets. The atmospheric cinematography and haunting soundtrack add to the overall tension, creating a truly immersive viewing experience. With its complex narrative and compelling performances, The Stranger is a must-watch for fans of mystery and thriller genres. The series’ ability to maintain suspense throughout its run is a testament to its clever writing and skillful execution, making it a standout addition to Netflix’s library of original content. The exploration of moral ambiguity and the consequences of past actions adds depth to the story, making it more than just a simple whodunit. Instead, it’s a complex character study that delves into the darker aspects of human nature.

How Did Rotten Tomatoes Review "The Stranger?"

So, how did Rotten Tomatoes perceive The Stranger? Well, the series received mixed reviews. While some critics praised its gripping plot and suspenseful storytelling, others found it convoluted and somewhat far-fetched.

Critical Reception

On Rotten Tomatoes, The Stranger holds an average score, reflecting the divided opinions of critics. Some applauded the show for its ability to keep viewers guessing, highlighting the strong performances of the cast and the well-executed plot twists. They praised the series for its fast-paced narrative and the way it gradually reveals secrets, creating a sense of constant suspense. These critics argued that the show's strengths lie in its ability to keep the audience engaged and invested in the characters' fates. They appreciated the complex character development and the exploration of moral ambiguities, which added depth to the storyline.

However, other critics were less impressed. Common criticisms included the overabundance of plot twists, which some found to be excessive and ultimately detracted from the story's coherence. These critics argued that the show tried to cram too many subplots and character arcs into its limited runtime, resulting in a convoluted and confusing narrative. They also pointed out some plot holes and inconsistencies that undermined the overall credibility of the story. Some critics felt that the characters' motivations were not always clear, making it difficult to fully connect with them. Despite the strong performances, they believed that the writing lacked the necessary nuance to make the characters truly compelling. Overall, these critics found The Stranger to be an entertaining but ultimately flawed thriller that failed to live up to its potential.

Audience Reaction

Despite the mixed critical reception, audience reviews for The Stranger were generally more positive. Many viewers found the series highly entertaining and binge-worthy, praising its suspenseful plot and unexpected twists. They appreciated the show's ability to keep them guessing until the very end and enjoyed the fast-paced narrative that kept them engaged from start to finish. Many viewers also lauded the performances of the cast, particularly the lead actors, who they felt brought depth and authenticity to their roles. They found the characters to be relatable and appreciated the exploration of their personal struggles and moral dilemmas. The show's ability to create a sense of unease and paranoia was also a major draw for many viewers, who enjoyed the suspenseful atmosphere and the constant feeling that anything could happen.

However, some audience members echoed the criticisms of the professional reviewers, noting that the plot could be convoluted at times and that some of the twists felt forced or unnecessary. They also pointed out some inconsistencies in the storyline and felt that certain subplots were underdeveloped. Despite these criticisms, the majority of viewers found The Stranger to be a worthwhile watch and praised its ability to deliver a thrilling and suspenseful viewing experience. The show's popularity among audiences is a testament to its ability to captivate and entertain, even if it may not be a perfect piece of television.

Why the Division?

So, why the difference in opinions? Well, The Stranger relies heavily on plot twists. Some viewers and critics find these twists exciting and unpredictable, while others see them as contrived and excessive. The show's strength lies in its ability to keep the audience guessing, but this can also be a weakness, as some viewers may find the constant barrage of twists overwhelming or nonsensical. The effectiveness of these plot twists often depends on the viewer's tolerance for ambiguity and their willingness to suspend disbelief.

Another factor contributing to the divided opinions is the complexity of the narrative. The Stranger weaves together multiple storylines and characters, which can be challenging to follow. Some viewers appreciate the intricate plot and enjoy piecing together the various clues, while others may find it confusing and difficult to keep track of all the different threads. The show's success in engaging the audience depends on its ability to balance complexity with clarity. If the narrative becomes too convoluted, viewers may lose interest or become frustrated.

Furthermore, the characters in The Stranger are not always likeable or relatable, which can also affect viewers' opinions. The show delves into the darker aspects of human nature, exploring themes of betrayal, deception, and moral compromise. While some viewers may find this exploration thought-provoking and compelling, others may be turned off by the characters' flaws and questionable actions. The show's ability to resonate with the audience depends on its ability to create empathy for the characters, even if they are not always admirable.

Ultimately, the reception of The Stranger is subjective and depends on individual preferences and expectations. Some viewers may appreciate the show's suspenseful plot, unexpected twists, and strong performances, while others may find it convoluted, far-fetched, or emotionally detached. The show's ability to entertain and engage the audience is undeniable, but its success in satisfying individual viewers will vary depending on their personal tastes.

Is "The Stranger" Worth Watching?

Okay, so is The Stranger worth your time? If you're a fan of mystery thrillers with plenty of twists, then absolutely! Just be prepared to suspend your disbelief a bit. The series is a rollercoaster of revelations, and while it might not be perfect, it’s definitely binge-worthy.

For Fans Of...

If you enjoyed shows like Safe, The Woods, or other Harlan Coben adaptations, you'll likely enjoy The Stranger. These series share similar themes of hidden secrets, unexpected betrayals, and the unraveling of seemingly perfect lives. They often feature complex characters with murky pasts and explore the darker side of human nature. The suspenseful storytelling and unexpected plot twists are also common elements in these shows.

Potential Drawbacks

However, if you prefer more straightforward narratives or dislike shows with lots of plot twists, The Stranger might not be for you. The series can be convoluted at times, with multiple storylines and characters to keep track of. Some viewers may find the constant barrage of twists overwhelming or confusing, while others may appreciate the complexity and unpredictability. If you prefer a more linear and predictable storyline, you may find The Stranger to be frustrating.

Final Verdict

Overall, The Stranger on Netflix is a thrilling ride with enough suspense to keep you hooked. While the Rotten Tomatoes score reflects mixed opinions, the audience reception suggests that many viewers found it highly entertaining. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare for a wild journey into the world of secrets and lies!

Whether you agree with the critics or side with the audience, one thing is for sure: The Stranger is a series that sparks conversation and keeps you guessing until the very end. Its blend of mystery, suspense, and unexpected twists makes it a standout addition to Netflix's library of original content. So, if you're looking for a show that will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you pondering long after the credits roll, The Stranger is definitely worth a watch.