This Disney+ crime thriller is a must-watch for fans of Netflix’s You, with one standout difference that sets this stalker series apart from the rest.
There’s one major reason you should watch (Image: IMDb/Stan/Disney)
With streaming services flooded with thrillers, crime, and mystery programmes, the storylines can occasionally feel repetitive and formulaic. There hasn’t been a riveting thriller that has captured the nation’s attention quite like Netflix’s You (2018).
However, Disney+ is venturing into this sinister realm with its new stalker thriller entitled Watching You (2025). The series delivers a nerve-wracking, gripping narrative packed with twists and shocking revelations. Audiences can anticipate intricate characters whose hidden truths gradually emerge, maintaining the tension throughout.
Yet, there’s one distinctive feature that distinguishes this programme and renders it essential viewing for thriller devotees.
What is Watching You about?
Protagonist Lina has a one-night stand, which is secretly filmed by a mystery person. However, Lina is engaged to someone else, meaning this one night of passion is an affair.
Lina is subsequently blackmailed by this enigmatic individual who appears to be monitoring her every action. Intent on exposing the stalker threatening her existence, she quickly discovers the peril may be considerably nearer than she ever suspected.
There’s murder and domestic violence in this thriller with layered characters. Whilst it may not feature the most twists and turns, the programme expertly keeps you on edge as secrets steadily emerge, given that no character is entirely blameless.
Similarities to Netflix’s You
Both programmes portray domestic violence, threats against women, stalking and murder. The villains in both shows conceal their true identity while manipulating women.
The only difference is that in Netflix’s You, stalker Joe is the main character and more charismatic than the villain in Watching You. Spoilers ahead.
However, both men are completely unhinged and will do anything to keep their secret whilst convincing themselves they are relentlessly, madly in love with the women they are obsessed with.
One reason you should watch
Watching You does a brilliant job of addressing domestic violence. Unlike Netflix’s You, this show is from the perspective and follows the actions of Lina. Though she is flawed, the show does not excuse what happened to her as a victim.
Her fight against the abuser is fierce, intense and complicated, but it is well written and delivered. Netflix’s You has been criticised for the “romanticisation” of male violence against women, as seen from Refinery29, Our Wave, and feminists.co, but Watching You intensifies the feeling of danger and suspense.
Early ratings
Commenting on IMDB, one person said: “It’s a refreshing and paychpatic watch. All the characters are stupid and follow questionable and illogical choices. But haven’t we all been there? The series reminds me of ‘You’ to a certain degree.
“It’s the plot of stalking someone and manipulating them into loving you. That’s about it with the similarities. The acting could be better; there’s some nudity, which I am not appalled by, but sometimes it makes no sense. Anyway, it’s not vulgar or anything. All in all, it’s a good show. But judge for yourselves.”
Another viewer commented: “I was very entertained by the first 3 episodes. Steamy show, interesting relationship dynamics, good performances. Despite the plot being more than obvious, I enjoyed watching the story unravel.”
They continued: “After the fourth episode, the story started getting more and more ridiculous. Characters were making one stupid decision after another, and the final episode was a letdown, the way it ended. Was that even justice being served? I doubt so.
“Overall, it’s a nice show for a binge, easy to follow despite being predictable. The finale just wasn’t to my taste. It wouldn’t hurt you to watch it.”
