“The Institute” is a thrilling science-fiction horror series based on Stephen King’s novel and brought to life by director and producer Jack Bender. The show follows the story of Luke Ellis, a gifted 14-year-old who is kidnapped from his home in the middle of the night by a mysterious organization known as The Institute. As Luke navigates the strange and dangerous world he finds himself in, he forms a bond with other kidnapped children who are also being held against their will.
Meanwhile, former Boston police officer Tim Jamieson stumbles upon disturbing clues in a small town in Maine that lead him to investigate a hazardous materials plant with dark secrets. As the plot unfolds, Luke and his fellow captives uncover the true motives of The Institute and the sinister experiments being conducted on them.
Despite its intriguing premise, “The Institute” struggles to maintain its momentum towards the end. The pacing slows down in the final episodes, and the revelations about the organization behind The Institute feel somewhat underwhelming. Unanswered questions leave the series with a somewhat open-ended conclusion that may leave viewers wanting more.
Nevertheless, “The Institute” is a thought-provoking watch that delves into themes of power, control, and rebellion. The cast delivers strong performances, and the show’s exploration of moral dilemmas and ethical boundaries will keep audiences engaged. While not without its flaws, “The Institute” offers a captivating story that will appeal to fans of Stephen King’s work and lovers of science-fiction horror.
Catch the first two episodes of “The Institute” on MGM+ starting July 13, with new episodes releasing weekly on Sundays. Don’t miss out on this gripping tale of courage and defiance in the face of tyranny.