Although some students evidently achieve their peak in high school, others only wish to graduate and escape the school system. Regardless of whether a student is a jock in the popular clique, or a nerd who often experienced bullying, that student certainly doesn’t wish to spend the rest of eternity stuck in high school. The Paramount+ series “School Spirits” delves into the fictional Split River High School afterlife.
The show itself revolves around the main character, Maddie Nears, portrayed by Peyton List, who abruptly arrives in the afterlife with a foggy memory of what actually happened to her. While investigating her supposed murder, she meets a handful of spirits who meet their untimely fate on the high school campus and are forever enclosed to the high school premises.
The first season of the series was released in March 2023, but the entire second season was released this month. The first season follows Maddie as she tries to solve her own murder, only to reveal something entirely unexpected. Similar to the first season, the second season unpacks a lot in its eight episodes through strong character development, an expansion of the show’s lore, new relationships and the introduction of new characters.
The plot is by far the show’s worst quality. Yes, the show does have plenty of twists that keep the audience begging for more, and the twists make the show very binge-worthy. However, the twists in the first season only left me confused and not wanting to watch more. It was as though the show was being portrayed as a murder mystery, but in the end, it was none of the above and entirely supernatural. This made the first season seem like a waste of time, although the plot built off of this admirably in the second season.
The supernatural aspect of the show is certainly fitting, but simultaneously, it is just an excuse for the writers to mold the show in whatever way they want it to be. Watching it feels like playing a game where the rules are being made up along the way. However, for those who enjoy the supernatural and sci-fi genre, the show is undoubtedly more enjoyable.
The actresses, writers, directors and character development all make the characters extremely exciting to watch. There is plenty of chemistry between the characters, and at certain points, you find yourself rooting between paranormal Maddie or real-life Maddie. There are plenty of side plots and relationship development between characters, so regardless of who is on screen, something is going on with them.
Another quality that was pretty on point was the casting of characters. The actors all work very well together. Along with a lot of fans, I was pleased to see Milo Manheim, who gained popularity from Disney’s “Zombies” tetralogy and “American Housewife,” alongside Peyton List from Disney’s “Jessie” and the “Karate Kid” sequel “Cobra Kai.” List and Manheim’s characters Maddie and Wally illuminate the screen and enhance the show greatly. Other side characters have a more rudimentary acting style, which at times clashes with other actors, but it is not a crucial complaint.
Overall, the Paramount+ series is certainly suspenseful and packs a punch, regardless of the minor critiques I may have. The show is perfect for teens 13 and up interested in mystery but is not recommended for those who don’t appreciate the sci-fi genre. Although it is not the best show out right now, it is favorable compared to other series made for teens.
