5 Chilling TV Shows to keep you awake at night

Published on 29 July 2023 at 05:28

Your guide to what's on & upcoming, OntheBox.  


Yellowjackets - Season 1 & 2 are currently available on Paramount+

"Yellowjackets" is a gripping and darkly captivating television series that combines elements of drama, mystery, and psychological thriller. Set against a hauntingly atmospheric backdrop, the show weaves together two timelines, unraveling a haunting and enigmatic tale of survival, secrets, and the indomitable human spirit.

The narrative unfolds with a flashback to the early 1990s when the high school girls' soccer team, the "Yellowjackets," embarked on a seemingly routine trip to a national competition. Their plane mysteriously crashes in a remote and unforgiving wilderness, leaving the survivors stranded and faced with the daunting challenges of surviving in an inhospitable environment.

The series then seamlessly transitions to the present day, where the once-young and traumatized survivors, now grown women, grapple with the consequences of their ordeal. The haunting experiences of their past have left an indelible mark on each of them, leading to broken relationships, emotional scars, and a shared pact to protect the dark and buried secrets of their time in the wilderness.

As the story oscillates between the past and the present, the gripping mystery deepens. The audience is taken on a rollercoaster journey, delving into the complex characters' psyches and witnessing how the harrowing ordeal shaped them into who they are now. Through a series of carefully crafted flashbacks and revelations, the truth behind the plane crash, the disturbing events that unfolded during their time in the wilderness, and the shocking actions they took to survive gradually come to light.

"Yellowjackets" is more than just a survival story; it delves into the complexities of human nature, the bonds of friendship, the impact of trauma, and the lengths people will go to protect themselves and others. The series challenges conventional notions of heroism and villainy, blurring the lines between right and wrong, as the characters' moral compasses are put to the ultimate test.

With stellar performances from a talented ensemble cast, "Yellowjackets" keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its masterful storytelling, unexpected twists, and visceral suspense. The series explores the darkness within the human soul, leaving the audience questioning the lengths they themselves would go to survive such a dire situation.

As the layers of the narrative are artfully peeled away, "Yellowjackets" delivers a haunting and unforgettable experience, leaving its audience haunted by the chilling implications of human survival and the hidden demons that dwell within us all.


From - Season 1 & 2 currently avaialble on Stan/ MGM+

"From" unravels the mystery of a nightmarish town that traps all those who enter. As the unwilling residents fight to keep a sense of normalcy and search for a way out, they must also survive the threats of the surrounding forest – including the terrifying creatures that come out when the sun goes down.


Cruel Summer - Season 1 is on Prime. Season 2 is currently airing on Freeform.

"Cruel Summer" is an American psychological thriller anthology television series created by Bert V. Royal and Jessica Biel. It premiered in April 2021 on the Freeform network. Set in the 1990s, the show follows the lives of two teenage girls, Jeanette Turner and Kate Wallis, whose lives become intertwined through a series of intriguing events.

The story unfolds across three summers in the small town of Skylin, Texas. Kate, once a popular and outgoing girl, mysteriously goes missing, and Jeanette seemingly takes her place as the new "it" girl. As the narrative progresses, the show explores shifting perspectives and timeframes, revealing dark secrets and the complexities of the characters.

Each episode delves deeper into the mystery, exploring the impact of the disappearance on both girls and the people around them. The series tackles themes of identity, trauma, perception, and the consequences of choices made.

"Cruel Summer" gained popularity for its nonlinear storytelling, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats with twists and turns throughout the season. It combines elements of drama, mystery, and thriller to create an engaging and suspenseful narrative.

Season 2 takes us to a new group of teens, retaining the pre- social media setting and delves into toxic friendships. 

Behing Her Eyes - Netflix miniseries.

"Behind Her Eyes" is a psychological thriller television series based on the novel of the same name written by Sarah Pinborough. The series was released in 2021 and consists of six episodes.

The story revolves around Louise, a single mother who begins an affair with her charming and seemingly perfect boss, David. At the same time, Louise befriends Adele, David's enigmatic and troubled wife. As the relationships between the three characters unfold, dark secrets and twisted dynamics come to the surface.

The series seamlessly blends elements of psychological suspense, supernatural elements, and complex character relationships. It delves into themes of obsession, manipulation, and hidden agendas. As the plot progresses, viewers are taken on a roller-coaster ride of suspense and mystery, with unexpected twists that culminate in a mind-bending and shocking conclusion.

"Behind Her Eyes" received positive reviews for its gripping storytelling and strong performances by the cast. It has been praised for its ability to keep the audience on edge, guessing until the final moments.



The Haunting of Hille House - 10 episode miniseries, Netflix. 

"The Haunting of Hill House" is a critically acclaimed horror television series that premiered on Netflix in 2018. Created and directed by Mike Flanagan, it is loosely based on Shirley Jackson's 1959 novel of the same name. The show follows the Crain family, who once lived in the haunted Hill House, and their traumatic experiences both during their time there and in the present day.

The narrative is presented in a dual timeline, alternating between the past and the present. In the past, the Crain family moves into Hill House as they intend to renovate and sell it. However, they soon begin to experience unsettling and paranormal occurrences, driving them to leave the house abruptly, and leaving some members with lasting emotional scars.

In the present, the adult Crain siblings are shown dealing with the aftermath of their traumatic experiences at Hill House. Their lives have been significantly affected by their time in the haunted mansion, and they must confront both the lingering ghosts of the past and the supernatural forces that seem to have a hold on them.

Throughout the series, the story explores themes of family, trauma, grief, and the supernatural. It skillfully weaves together psychological horror and a character-driven narrative, delving into the complex relationships between the Crain family members and the dark secrets that they carry.

"The Haunting of Hill House" received widespread praise for its compelling storytelling, strong performances, atmospheric cinematography, and its ability to genuinely frighten audiences. It was lauded as one of the best horror series in recent years and contributed to a resurgence of interest in supernatural horror in the television medium.