Hello, everyone! How’s everything going? Today, I’m excited to share my thoughts on the drama I Am Not Okay With This, a supernatural teen series on Netflix that quickly became a fan favorite, yet sadly ended all too soon, leaving viewers wanting more.
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Debuting on Netflix on February 26, 2020, this coming-of-age black comedy was brought to life by Jonathan Entwistle and Christy Hall, inspired by the 2017 graphic novel of the same name by Charles Forsman. The show features Sophia Lillis, Wyatt Oleff, Sofia Bryant, and Kathleen Rose Perkins in a narrative that intertwines teenage issues with supernatural themes. I Am Not Okay With This comprises only 7 episodes, each lasting about 25-30 minutes, making it ideal for binge-watching in one go. Although it was initially intended to have 8 episodes, only 7 were created, and despite its acclaim, Netflix canceled the series in August 2020 due to complications stemming from COVID-19 and financial issues.
The plot centers around Sydney Novak, a teenage girl grappling with emotional turbulence who realizes she possesses psychokinetic abilities activated by intense feelings. As the story unfolds, she strives to master her powers while navigating the intricate relationships in her life. What sets this show apart is its clever use of supernatural elements as a metaphor for the intense emotions and helplessness often experienced during adolescence.
Sydney’s Volatile Path to Self-Acceptance
Sophia Lillis gives a standout performance as Sydney Novak, a 17-year-old struggling with anger management, familial issues, and her sexual orientation, all while grappling with telekinetic powers that emerge during emotional upheaval. Sydney is a typical teenager facing high school challenges while managing the intricacies of her family life, her emerging sexuality, and the mysterious superpowers that are starting to awaken within her.
Lillis, recognized for her role as Beverly Marsh in Stephen King’s “It,” infuses incredible depth into Sydney’s character, capturing the raw intensity of adolescent emotions heightened by her supernatural gifts. Her portrayal illustrates how teenage anger, confusion, and heartbreak can become truly explosive when coupled with telekinetic abilities. Sydney’s journey towards self-acceptance includes navigating her feelings for her best friend Dina, adding layers of realism to her coming-of-age narrative.
Dina and the Intricacies of Teenage Bonds
Sofia Bryant shines as Dina, Sydney’s best friend and secret affection, whose relationship with Sydney serves as the emotional backbone of the series. The angst-ridden Syd navigates the awkwardness of high school, familial drama, and her unreciprocated feelings for her best friend while attempting to control her emerging powers. Dina embodies everything Sydney yearns for—popularity, confidence, and the liberty to express herself without fear.
The chemistry between Bryant and Lillis generates some of the most touching moments in the series, delving into the complex dynamics of friendship when romantic feelings complicate matters. Their bond fuels much of Sydney’s emotional struggles and, consequently, her power surges, making Dina both Sydney’s grounding force and her primary source of internal conflict.
When Powers Collide with Teenage Challenges
The series builds toward intense climaxes where Sydney’s lack of emotional control results in chaos around her. The most impactful episodes arise when typical teenage scenarios—school dances, family disputes, romantic rejections—turn perilous when combined with her telekinetic abilities. These scenes effectively demonstrate how overwhelming adolescent emotions can feel, using supernatural elements to externalize inner turmoil.
The season finale presents a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that hints at significant developments regarding Sydney’s powers and the discovery of their origins. Regrettably, this cliffhanger was left unresolved due to the show’s cancellation, leaving fans with one of Netflix’s most exasperating unfinished narratives.
Supporting Characters and Small-Town Dynamics
Wyatt Oleff, reuniting with Lillis from the “It” films, portrays Stanley Barber, Sydney’s quirky neighbor and potential love interest, who provides both humor and genuine emotional support. Kathleen Rose Perkins offers a nuanced portrayal as Sydney’s mother, Maggie, a single parent battling her own issues while striving to comprehend her daughter’s increasingly erratic behavior.
The supporting cast shapes an authentic small-town vibe that feels both nostalgic and stifling, perfectly reflecting an environment where teenage emotions are amplified, making escape feel impossible. The series excels at depicting how familial trauma and societal pressures intensify the already challenging experience of growing up.
Netflix’s Triumph and Heartbreaking Cancellation
I Am Not Okay With This was an incredibly underrated fantasy series that deserved more recognition, primarily due to Sophia Lillis’ exceptional performance. In just one season, the show redefines the classic powered-teen narrative, featuring a queer lead and an outstanding portrayal by Lillis. The series boasts a 7.5/10 rating on IMDb and received acclaim from critics for its genuine depiction of teenage struggles.
Despite favorable reviews and a dedicated fanbase, Netflix decided to cancel the series in August 2020, citing complications from COVID-19 and budgetary constraints. Among Netflix’s many frustrating cancellations, the cliffhanger ending of I Am Not Okay With This continues to be a source of frustration for fans. The cancellation sparked considerable outrage, with many viewing it as one of Netflix’s most disappointing decisions.
A Supernatural Treasure Cut Short
If you appreciate authentic coming-of-age narratives that weave supernatural elements with real teenage issues, I Am Not Okay With This is the ideal series to binge on Netflix. Despite its abrupt conclusion, this beautifully crafted show provides an unforgettable exploration of adolescent anger, identity, and the power of embracing oneself completely.
The Continuing Relevance of This Canceled Series
I Am Not Okay With This resonates because it treats teenage emotions with the seriousness they warrant while utilizing supernatural elements to externalize the inner chaos of youth. This expertly crafted series offers viewers a chance to see their own teenage challenges mirrored in Sydney’s intense journey, even if that journey was sorrowfully truncated.
Series Overview
Number of Episodes: 7 episodes (1 season, initially planned for 8)
Platform: Netflix
Release Year: 2020
Current IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Genre: Coming-of-Age, Black Comedy, Supernatural Drama
Status: Canceled after 1 season
Main Characters: Sophia Lillis (Sydney Novak), Sofia Bryant (Dina)
Supporting Cast: Wyatt Oleff (Stanley Barber), Kathleen Rose Perkins (Maggie Novak)