MGM+’s latest science-fiction horror thriller, “The Institute,” is a complex show that delves into the horrors of unchecked regimes and the children who dare to resist them. Based on Stephen King’s 2019 novel, the series boasts a fascinating cast of characters but stumbles in its conclusion.
The story begins at a nondescript high school in Minnesota, where 14-year-old Luke Ellis is kidnapped by a four-person extraction team. Luke’s life is turned upside down as he discovers he has been recruited by The Institute, a sinister organization that promises to return him home after completing tests and examinations. However, Luke soon realizes the true nature of The Institute and decides to take matters into his own hands.
As Luke and the other recruits, including Tim Jamieson, a former police officer turned drifter, craft an escape plan, they must navigate the treacherous world of The Institute. Meanwhile, Tim becomes increasingly curious about a hazardous materials plant in Maine and unwittingly draws attention to himself.
Despite its intriguing premise, “The Institute” falls short as a thriller. The show’s pacing stalls out in the final episodes, and unanswered questions linger at the conclusion. However, fans of Stephen King’s novels will find the ideas captivating and relatable to modern society’s issues.
With new episodes dropping weekly on Sundays, viewers can catch up with “The Institute,” premiering its first two episodes on July 13 on MGM+.
Source: https://variety.com/2025/tv/reviews/the-institute-review-mgm-plus-stephen-king-1236451325