Steven Spielberg’s Forgotten Sci-Fi Series ‘The Whispers’ Is Deeply Scary and Unsettling

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Steven Spielberg is known as one of Hollywood’s greatest storytellers, and he’s worked in almost every genre imaginable – from musicals and war films to thrillers. While films like Jaws, Duel, Jurassic Park, and War of the Worlds have frightening moments, they’re generally considered thrillers. Interestingly, Spielberg’s closest brush with directly making a horror film wasn’t actually directed by him. That film was Poltergeist (1982), directed by Tobe Hooper, but based on a script Spielberg co-wrote with Michael Grais and Mark Victor.

He appears more interested in referencing horror elements than actually directing a horror film. While he’s mentioned being inspired by classics like The Shining and Psycho, and he oversaw the production of films like Gremlins and Arachnophobia – which touch on horror themes – it’s surprising he hasn’t directed a dedicated horror movie. Though, his 1972 TV film, Something Evil, is genuinely scary and often overlooked. We’re also not going to rehash the debate about whether he secretly directed Poltergeist.

Spielberg’s work as an executive producer on television is particularly noteworthy. He’s supported shows like Amazing Stories, The River, and Under the Dome, all of which incorporate horror themes. But one series often overlooked is arguably his most frightening contribution to TV: The Whispers, a 2015 ABC show starring Milo Ventimiglia and Lily Rabe. It also features a talented cast of young actors, showcasing Spielberg’s knack for directing child performers.

There’s Something Wrong With the Children

Created by Soo Hugh (known for Pachinko and The Terror), The Whispers centers on a group of children and their parents as they try to unravel a baffling mystery. The kids are all communicating with an imaginary friend called “Drill,” who leads them to take increasingly risky actions. As this unseen force escalates its influence, FBI agent Claire Bennigan starts looking into the children’s strange behavior and discovers it might be connected to a conspiracy involving her separated husband.

Despite positive reviews from both viewers and critics (currently 71% on Rotten Tomatoes), ABC canceled the sci-fi horror drama created by Steven Spielberg after just one season. The first season has 13 episodes, and while the main story wraps up in the finale, the ending is deeply unsettling and stays with you long after it’s over – it’s truly terrifying.

A Killer Twist We Never Saw Coming

Steven Spielberg is famous for making movies about aliens. He’s explored both friendly and terrifying encounters – from the heartwarming story of E.T. to the destructive aliens in War of the Worlds. Soon, he’s returning to this type of film with Disclosure Day, but it’s too early to say whether these aliens will be benevolent or hostile.

We’re not going to spoil the connections, but The Whispers definitely shares some similarities with stories about alien visitors. The sci-fi horror series unfolds slowly, but ultimately reveals a scary and clever twist that feels reminiscent of Spielberg’s work and blends genres in a unique way.

You can’t stream the show with a subscription right now; you’ll need to rent or buy it online. But if you’re looking for something great to watch on a budget, this show is hard to beat. It’s a well-crafted story that doesn’t hesitate to put its characters in scary situations, and it’s unusual in its willingness to portray children as complex, even villainous. You can really feel director Steven Spielberg’s influence throughout this hidden gem of a TV series.




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2026-02-22 03:36