5 reasons to watch You on Netflix

      The Netflix series You has concluded its fifth and final season this month. This psychological thriller centers around Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley), a charismatic and well-read young man who becomes obsessively fixated on a woman. Once he identifies his target, Joe convinces himself that they are destined to be together, willing to do anything to "protect" her and their relationship. This often escalates to murder, creating a relentless cycle.

      In each episode, Joe's inner thoughts are presented in a Dexter-like manner as he justifies his actions and grapples with his disdain for the darker aspects of human nature. Fans have anticipated his reckoning, which is addressed in the finale. If you haven’t yet started the show or are thinking about re-watching his journey, here are five reasons to check out You on Netflix.

      1. It bears resemblance to Dexter (to some extent)

      From the very beginning of the first episode, you'll notice parallels to Dexter. If you enjoyed that series, You serves as an excellent follow-up. Similar to Dexter Morgan (Michael C. Hall), Joe's mind is always active, weighing his options and observing people around him. While both characters have a desire to kill, Joe does not see himself as a murderer, unlike Dexter, who is self-aware. Both perceive themselves as taking out those deemed unworthy. Dexter selects his victims with care, targeting murderers, rapists, kidnappers, gang members, and drug dealers. In contrast, Joe rationalizes that his victims pose threats to his loved ones. Joe disconnects from his reality, allowing his urges to dominate his actions and creating a distorted view of the world.

      You shares many tonal and thematic similarities with Dexter. Joe replaces Dexter’s green "kill shirt" and plastic-wrapped kill room with a baseball cap and an intricate cage. The series is equally engaging and thrilling as Dexter. Fortunately, while Dexter is known for one of the worst series finales ever, You’s finale offers a gratifying resolution.

      2. There are numerous unexpected twists

      Throughout its five seasons, You is filled with twists and turns that will catch you off guard. Each season follows a familiar trajectory — Joe encounters a woman, develops feelings for her, and ultimately resorts to murder (including others linked to her) — yet he continually evades consequences. The intrigue is in the unfolding of the seasons.

      Season four, in particular, keeps you guessing as Joe shifts from hunter to hunted for the first time. It also delves into Joe's fractured psyche and declining mental state, even as those around him remain unaware. Each season introduces a new setting and identity, keeping each installment fresh and unique.

      3. The cast is exceptional

      Badgley shines as the lead, easily stealing the spotlight in one of Netflix's best shows. Each season features a remarkable ensemble that immerses you in the narrative. Elizabeth Lail (Five Nights at Freddy’s), Victoria Pedretti (The Haunting of Hill House), Tati Gabrielle (The Last of Us), and Charlotte Ritchie (Call the Midwife) all portray significant love interests. The supporting cast has included talents like Zach Cherry (Severance), Shay Mitchell (Pretty Little Liars), and Jenna Ortega (Wednesday).

      Each actor brings a distinct flair to their roles, ranging from Lukas Gage’s (The White Lotus) arrogant wealthy playboy to Ed Speelers’ (Downton Abbey) ambitious politician. The fifth season introduces exciting new cast members, including Madeline Brewer (The Handmaid’s Tale), Anna Camp (Pitch Perfect), and Nava Mau (Baby Reindeer).

      4. Significant character development

      At the series' outset, Joe exhibits a more subtle obsession. Although he initially comes across as creepy, he primarily takes on the role of an overprotective, obsessive boyfriend. He has episodes of intense anger but appears to be a different man then. As the show advances, Joe becomes increasingly aware of himself and who he truly is. He never accepts responsibility for his actions, always believing he is a protector rather than a killer. As situations escalate, he creates more disturbing justifications for his behavior.

      The moments when Joe loses touch with reality are among the show's highlights, showcasing the extremes he will go to under the pretense of protecting others. Initially, he rationalizes his actions, but his excuses grow more intricate and self-fulfilling. It's captivating to observe Joe's battles against both his perceived adversaries and his inner turmoil.

      5. It imparts an impactful message in the end

      The final season of You critiques media portrayals and social media dynamics regarding how society treats killers and villains. It highlights how society often romanticizes grotesque figures, especially when they appear attractive, charming, and articulate, despite their unworthiness of praise. Ultimately, the show allows Joe's victims to reclaim their stories, countering his distorted narrative.

      Though much of the series is framed through Joe's inner dialogue, those he has harmed and exploited eventually receive