Yellowjackets is a thriller television series that premiered in November 2021 on Showtime. The series follows a group of high school girls who survive a plane crash in the wilderness and are forced to fend for themselves. The show has been praised for its suspenseful storytelling and strong performances from its ensemble cast.
Survival in the Wilderness
The show follows a group of high school girls who survive a plane crash in the wilderness and are forced to fend for themselves. The series features two timelines, one following the girls in the wilderness and the other following the same girls as adults dealing with the aftermath of the crash.

In the past timeline, the girls struggle to survive in the Canadian wilderness, with limited resources and harsh conditions. They are forced to confront their darkest fears and make tough decisions to stay alive. Along the way, they face dangerous wildlife, hunger, and freezing temperatures. They also encounter a mysterious stranger who offers to help them, but his true intentions remain unclear.
Now, the same girls are now adults, and their traumatic experience in the wilderness has had a lasting impact on their lives. They are haunted by their past and must confront their guilt, secrets, and betrayals. The adult timeline also reveals that some of the girls did not make it out of the wilderness alive, and the remaining survivors must grapple with the consequences of their actions.
A Thrilling Blend of Lost, Lord of the Flies, and Mean Girls
Yellowjackets benefits from an excellent production design that effectively sets the tone for the show’s dark and gritty atmosphere. The wild location is particularly impressive, with the harsh winter conditions adding to the show’s already suspenseful and tense tone.
The show also features strong cinematography and editing, effectively conveying the series’ suspense and horror elements.
A Successful Blend of Genres
The show’s design and editing are also top-notch, with clever use of flashbacks and flash-forwards to reveal new information and keep the audience on the edge of their seats. The transitions between past and present are seamless, and the show’s non-linear storytelling adds to its overall intrigue and mystery.
The Complex and Compelling Characters
The casting of Yellowjackets is one of its strongest assets, with an ensemble of talented actors who bring depth and nuance to their characters. The addition of new characters in season 2 is also well-executed, with each actor bringing their own unique energy and personality to the show.

The chemistry between the actors is particularly noteworthy, with the interactions between the characters feeling authentic and natural. The show also features excellent casting choices for its older versions of the characters, with both Melanie Lynskey and Christina Ricci delivering standout performances.
Heart-Pounding Thriller with Unexpected Twists
The editing of the show is particularly impressive, as the series effectively uses flashbacks and parallel timelines to build suspense and mystery around the central plot. The use of non-linear storytelling adds depth and complexity to the characters and their relationships, creating a compelling narrative that keeps the audience engaged.

Overall, the direction of the show is excellent, as it effectively balances the various genres it blends and creates a coherent and engaging story. The show’s creator and showrunner, Ashley Lyle and Bart Nickerson, skillfully weave together multiple plot threads and character arcs, creating a complex and multi-layered narrative that rewards viewers who pay close attention.
In conclusion, Yellowjackets is a thrilling and suspenseful series that effectively blends multiple genres to create a unique and engaging story. Throughout the season, the show explores themes of survival, trauma, and the darker side of human nature.

The show’s production design, casting, editing, and direction are all top-notch, resulting in a must-see TV experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. While the modern-day storyline may not be as compelling as the past, the show’s strong performances and intriguing plot twists make it worth watching.
Yellowjackets Season 2 Rating
Direction | 8/10 |
Cinematography | 8/10 |
Acting | 9/10 |
Sound | 7/10 |
Editing | 7/10 |
Production Design | 8/10 |
Casting | 9/10 |
Effects | 8/10 |
Overall Rating | 8.5/10 |