Wayward Pines: The Underrated Sci-Fi Hit for ‘From’ Fans

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The contemporary sci-fi series, often overlooked yet highly praised, is referred to as “From“. This intriguing show revolves around the inhabitants of a chilling small town and has garnered both critical and audience approval. As of November 2024, it has aired three seasons on MGM+, with a fourth in production. Given its past broadcast schedules, viewers might anticipate watching the fourth season later this year or early 2026. In the meantime, they could consider watching a Fox show from the mid-2010s that shares a similar setup.

Debuting in May 2015, the thrilling series, “Wayward Pines“, introduces Secret Service agent Ethan Burke who is dispatched to the mysterious town of Wayward Pines to find out what happened to two missing colleagues. However, like many others, Ethan quickly realizes that leaving this town is almost impossible. The show exudes an eerie atmosphere, hinting at secrets hidden beneath the surface. To provide a summary without spoiling too much, “Wayward Pines” offers a chilling tale with a unique setting, making it an ideal choice for fans of “From” to fill their gap between seasons. Yet, it also carves its own path by focusing more on science fiction elements rather than fantasy and the supernatural. Although it was moderately successful initially, “Wayward Pines” may not be as well-known today. However, isn’t that exactly why you should rediscover it now? So, what makes “Wayward Pines” worth watching?

The Setup of ‘Wayward Pines’

Matt Dillon plays the main character, Ethan Burke. He journeys to the mysterious town of Wayward Pines in search of two missing Secret Service colleagues, including his partner Kate Hewson (portrayed by Carla Gugino). From the very beginning, the town gives off a strange vibe. Upon arrival, Ethan is admitted to the hospital where Nurse Pam (Melissa Leo) and psychiatrist Dr. Jenkins (Toby Jones) try to persuade him that he’s suffering from some sort of mental instability. He manages to break free and reunites with Kate, who informs him she’s been in town for 12 years despite Ethan having seen her outside merely weeks prior. The town sheriff, Arnold Pope (Terrence Howard), makes threats against Ethan, and he eventually learns that any attempts to leave the town only lead back within its confines.

In Wayward Pines, it’s forbidden to discuss past lives. Beverly the bartender (played by Juliette Lewis) finds this out when she casually mentions her daughter. Following her reprimand, Ethan swears to discover the truth no matter what. Not long after, Theresa (Shannyn Sossamon) and their son Ben (Charlie Tahan) arrive in town, having searched for Ethan. The Burke family, who must maintain the facade of a content, typical household, struggle as Ethan digs deeper into the mysteries surrounding Wayward Pines.

1. The genuine character of the town unfolds in Episode 5 of Season 1. (No spoilers are given, but readers familiar with Blake Crouch’s original book series will recognize what’s ahead.)

2. In the second season, there was a significant change among the principal characters as Jason Patric took over Dillon’s role. Additionally, newcomers like Nimrat Kaur and Djimon Hounsou joined the cast.

3. Although suggestions of a third season hinted at possibilities, Fox ultimately decided to discontinue the show after the second installment.

The Legacy of ‘Wayward Pines’ and Where to Stream It

Despite not being as well-known now, the series “Wayward Pines” once boasted a team of prominent science fiction figures. Author and executive producer (EP) Crouch later adapted another of his books for Apple TV+’s “Dark Matter”. The Duffer Brothers, famed for their hit series “Stranger Things”, were scriptwriters during Season 1. Additionally, M. Night Shyamalan, a renowned storyteller of twists, served as an EP and directed the pilot episode. Notably, the fifth episode of Season 1 includes the trademark Shyamalan twist.

Initially planned as a miniseries, “Wayward Pines” originally aimed to adapt all three books of Crouch’s trilogy for its first season. However, Fox unexpectedly commissioned a second season in December 2015. This second season departed from the original books’ stories, which might have contributed to its less favorable reception. The first season had decent ratings, but they dropped even more in the subsequent season. Although it garnered some nominations at the 2016 Saturn and 2017 Leo Awards, “Wayward Pines” failed to secure any wins. After being canceled in 2018, the show has since become relatively unknown.

If you’re interested in watching Wayward Pines, you can stream it right now on Hulu. You can also purchase or rent it on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. With its gripping storyline reminiscent of From, Wayward Pines might just be what you need to fill that void in your viewing schedule. If the show gains enough popularity, it could become a success story of a revitalized series finding a new home on a streaming platform. While a reboot might not be likely, it would certainly bring the attention that Wayward Pines deserves.

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2025-04-19 05:02