Netflix's new dark comedy, Sirens, starring Julianne Moore, Milly Alcock, and Meghann Fahy, has stirred up a wave of reactions from viewers and critics alike. Released just yesterday, May 22, 2025, the series is already generating buzz, but is it hitting all the right notes?
The premise of Sirens centers around Devon DeWitt (Fahy), a woman grappling with her father's dementia and her own sobriety, who becomes suspicious of her sister Simone's (Alcock) involvement with Michaela Kell (Moore), a wealthy socialite with a cult-like following. The show explores themes of family, class, manipulation, and trauma, all wrapped in a darkly comedic package.
Critics are largely praising Sirens, particularly Moore's performance. Lucy Mangan of The Guardian gave the show a perfect five stars, calling it "utterly addictive" and a "witty, star-packed treat." Other reviews highlight Moore's ability to blend charisma, menace, and vulnerability, making her character both enchanting and unsettling. Some critics have favorably compared Moore's performance to those in The White Lotus, noting her commanding presence and nuanced portrayal of a complex character. Empire gave the show four out of five stars, describing it as "camp luxury trash at its finest."
However, the praise isn't unanimous. Some critics point out inconsistencies in the script and a rushed finale, leaving some plot threads unresolved. Screen Rant notes that while the show starts strong with intriguing mysteries, some of the payoffs aren't as great. They also suggest that the show excels more in its dark comedy aspects than in its melodramatic, soap opera-like elements. Despite the magnetic performances from the cast, the overall delivery and pacing of the story have left some viewers feeling mixed.
Fan reviews seem to echo this sentiment, showing a divide. While many viewers have lauded the series for its bizarre and irreverent storyline, stellar performances, and binge-worthiness, others have expressed disappointment with the incomplete feeling of the story. One IMDb reviewer gave the show an 8/10, admitting it wasn't the story they were expecting, "which made it even better." Some viewers have said they enjoyed every episode and watched it in one sitting. However, some viewers felt that after five episodes, many questions remained unanswered, expressing concern that a second season may not be in the cards.
Overall, Sirens appears to be a series with strong performances and an intriguing premise, but one that may not fully deliver on its initial promise for all viewers. Those who enjoy unconventional stories with dark humor, à la Desperate Housewives or The Stepford Wives, will likely find something to enjoy. However, viewers seeking a deeply engaging mystery with all the ends tied may want to look elsewhere. Whether Sirens becomes a cult classic or fades into the background remains to be seen, but Julianne Moore's performance is certainly a highlight that warrants attention.
