Some television shows are entertaining to watch, but still have a few filler episodes thrown in. This can be due to storytelling issues or a desire to make a series last a specific number of episodes. But any weak episodes in the bunch can throw off the whole vibe of a series. Luckily, Apple TV released one science fiction thriller that is eight episodes of pure perfection. Shining Girls premiered on the streamer back in 2022. Created by Silka Luisa, the series was adapted from a 2013 novel of the same name by Lauren Beukes, and with multiple twists and turns, this underrated series deserves some attention after quietly dropping on the streamer four years ago.

What Is ‘Shining Girls’ About?

The limited series follows Kirby Mazrachi (Elisabeth Moss), who works as an archivist at the Chicago Sun-Times. Kirby’s life is stuck in a rut, and she finds herself still living at home with her mother. But the reason she seems so despondent is that several years prior, Kirby was brutally attacked and left for dead. The worst part is that her perpetrator was never found. At first, it seems like Kirby is just affected by the extreme trauma she endured, possibly displaying symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. But it then becomes apparent that the difficulties she’s facing are no simple manifestations of her trauma. The aspects of Kirby’s life seem to change from one day to the next (her cat becomes a dog, she’s married to her co-worker instead of being single, etc.) As we dive deeper into Kirby’s world, we discover that there are multiple realities at play, and Shining Girls becomes a science fiction narrative where you never know what to expect. There is also a mysterious serial killer (Jamie Bell), who just might have something to do with these rips in Kirby’s reality.

‘Shining Girls’ Is a Twisty Thriller With an Impressive Cast

Shining Girls would be a fascinating enough drama if it were merely a mystery about a dangerous man who hunts women. Instead, it becomes a unique, compelling sci-fi story where the real world is not set in stone. We’re never sure whether Kirby should trust her experiences, and that goes for the viewer watching as well. The series begs the question: what would your life feel like if you couldn’t even rely on everyday structures to keep you stable? This type of narrative creates an imbalance that adds to the series’ intensity and off-kilter terror. The tone lends itself perfectly to an ever-changing world inhabited by a treacherous man intent on snuffing out the bright lights that are his victims. Each episode not only contains plenty of intrigue but also captivates because it continuously transitions back and forth between different genres. Whether Shining Girls feels like a dark psychological drama, a mind-bending sci-fi puzzle, or a simple exploration of the generational trauma that stems from violence, the series is completely and utterly bingeable.

A show this inventive would tend to feel like it could go off the rails at any moment. The reason Shining Girls is so effective is its incredible cast. Moss has starred in some pretty impressive roles over the past couple of decades, but this series allows her to show off even more of her range. She perfectly captures Kirby’s out-of-control spiraling, as well as her inner strength, proving that Moss can certainly take on any role she chooses. Kirby’s partner-in-crime is a colleague who helps her unravel her past; played by recent Oscar nominee Wagner Moura, the role is grounded in vulnerability and determination. The cast also consists of fantastic performances by Phillipa Soo, Chris Chalk, and Amy Brenneman, and Moss’ Handmaid’s Tale co-star Madeline Brewer also pops up in a small but powerful role. And of course, no mention of the show would be complete without praising Bell, who is an absolutely terrifying and creepy villain.

Although you’ll want to speed through every episode to find out what will happen on Kirby’s journey, this masterful drama is a series that demands to be savored for its inventive storytelling and its nuanced performances. Plus, because it’s merely eight episodes, it’s a lot easier to binge than some other sci-fi thrillers. By the time you reach the finale, you’ll have to agree that there’s not even one subpar episode in the entire show, proving that Shining Girls is a must-see.