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Wayward poster

Wayward (2025)

TV showRated MA 15+

CTV score8.4/ 10

Where to watch Wayward in Australia

Streaming availability data from JustWatch.

About Wayward

A small-town cop suspects that the local school for troubled teens - and its dangerously charismatic founder - may not be all it seems.

Year
2025
Genres
Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Seasons
1
Top cast
Mae Martin, Toni Collette, Brandon Jay McLaren, Sarah Gadon, Sydney Topliffe

Wayward trailer

Wayward trailerPlay video: Wayward trailer

What our critics think

Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.

Review Team

★★★★★4/5

Wayward presents a captivating exploration of morality and trust within a small-town setting. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of a dedicated cop, whose growing suspicion of a local school for troubled teens drives the film's tension. The performances are commendable, particularly that of the charismatic founder, whose charm masks a deeper malevolence. The direction is tight, ensuring that the pacing keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. While the film does not shy away from darker themes, it manages to balance suspense with moments of introspection. Overall, Wayward is a thought-provoking thriller that resonates long after the credits roll.

Editor Team

★★★★★3/5

Wayward has its moments, but it doesn't quite hit the mark as a thriller. The premise of a cop unearthing secrets in a troubled teen school is intriguing, but the execution feels a bit predictable. The performances are decent, though I wished for more depth in character development. The tension occasionally builds nicely, but there were moments when it lagged, leaving me wanting more urgency. The film's ending, while attempting to be impactful, felt somewhat rushed and left a few questions unanswered. It's not a bad watch, but it may not leave a lasting impression on all viewers.

How viewers describe this

  • gripping
  • compelling
  • intense
  • psychological
  • thought-provoking
  • predictable
  • unsettling
  • engaging
  • impactful
  • decent
  • rushed
  • charming

Wayward seasons

Streaming Charts

The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.

Got a question about Wayward?

Is Wayward worth watching?

Yes, Wayward is worth watching for its gripping narrative and strong performances. The film explores themes of trust and deception within a seemingly idyllic small town, drawing viewers into its compelling storyline.

What is Wayward really about?

Wayward follows a small-town cop who begins to suspect that the local school for troubled teens, run by a charismatic founder, harbours dark secrets. The tension escalates as he digs deeper, uncovering truths that challenge his perceptions.

Is Wayward suitable for children?

Wayward is not recommended for children due to its mature themes and some intense scenes. It is best suited for older teens and adults who can appreciate its complex narrative.

What happens at the end of Wayward?

Spoilers ahead: In the end, the cop confronts the founder of the school, leading to a dramatic showdown that reveals the extent of the founder's manipulation. The resolution leaves viewers questioning the nature of authority and morality.

Where can I watch Wayward in Australia?

Wayward is available for streaming on several platforms in Australia. Check popular services like Netflix or Amazon Prime for availability and rental options.

Is Wayward scary?

Wayward has suspenseful moments that may be unsettling for some viewers, but it is more of a psychological thriller than a horror film. It builds tension through its storyline rather than relying on jump scares.

What films are similar to Wayward?

Fans of Wayward may enjoy films like 'Prisoners', 'The Gift', and 'The Invisible Man', as they similarly explore themes of deception and the dark side of human nature.

Is there a sequel to Wayward?

As of now, there has been no announcement regarding a sequel to Wayward. The film's standalone narrative leaves room for exploration, but a follow-up has not been confirmed.