Stay Close

Stay Close

show

TV-MA, 2021

WISE
28%

WISE Score

92

Avg. Tomatometer

Dark British thriller about linked disappearances—well-crafted but intense, violent, and definitely adults-only.

IMDb6.9
RT Critics92%
MC51
Common Sense Media
Where to Watch
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Where-to-watch data byJustWatch
Screenwise Verdict

Here's the deal: Stay Close is a competent British thriller that critics liked way more than regular viewers did. That 92% vs 54% split tells you everything—it's well-made but might leave you feeling 'meh' after eight episodes.

This is absolutely, positively not for kids or teens. We're talking graphic violence, murder mystery with disturbing undertones, and content that would give younger viewers nightmares. Even for adults, it's heavy stuff.

If you're into Harlan Coben adaptations and British crime dramas, you might enjoy the twisty plot and moody atmosphere. But if you're looking for something to watch with the family or even with your high schooler? Hard pass. Save this for solo viewing after the kids are in bed, and even then, maybe have a comfort show queued up for afterward.

Age Fit

This is strictly adult content (17+). Despite the 15+ Common Sense rating, the graphic violence, sexual content, and disturbing themes make it inappropriate for teens. It's for grown-ups who enjoy dark British crime dramas and can handle intense, sometimes disturbing content.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
25

This is a dark British crime thriller involving disappearances, murders, and disturbing content. The tone is tense and grim throughout, dealing with violence, sexual content, and morally complex characters. Not emotionally healthy viewing for younger audiences, and the pacing is designed to create anxiety and suspense rather than balance.

Imaginative
45

Based on a Harlan Coben novel, it offers a twisty mystery plot with interconnected storylines spanning 17 years. The narrative structure requires viewers to piece together clues, but it's standard thriller fare rather than particularly original—think formulaic British mystery with decent execution. No real creative expression or exploration invited.

Safe
15

Common Sense Media rates this for 15+, and that's generous. The show contains graphic violence, murder, sexual content, disturbing themes around disappearances and potentially sexual violence. This is absolutely not safe for unexpected viewing by younger audiences. The 92% critic score vs 54% audience score suggests it's well-made but intense and potentially triggering.

Enriching
40

As adult entertainment, it offers some value in exploring themes of secrets, past trauma, and how choices ripple through time. The mystery format encourages critical thinking and attention to detail. However, it's primarily designed for suspense and entertainment rather than meaningful personal growth. The 6.9 IMDb rating suggests competent but not exceptional execution.

Parent Info
✓

Why It Might Be Great

  • High critic approval (92% on RT) suggests solid craftsmanship and compelling mystery construction
  • Complex narrative spanning 17 years could spark discussions about consequences and how the past shapes the present
  • For thriller-loving adults, it's binge-worthy Netflix fare that keeps you guessing
  • Based on Harlan Coben's work, known for twisty plots that reward attention to detail
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What to Watch For

  • Graphic violence, murder, and potentially sexual violence—this is NOT a cozy mystery
  • Dark psychological themes around trauma, secrets, and disappearances that could be triggering
  • The 38-point gap between critic and audience scores suggests it's polarizing—you might find it gripping or frustrating
  • Absolutely keep this away from kids and teens; the 15+ rating is bare minimum, 17+ is more realistic

Conversation Starters

  • "If you're watching with a partner: How do you think keeping major secrets affects relationships long-term?"
  • "What would you do if someone from your past suddenly reappeared after years?"
  • "The show explores how one night can change everything—have you ever made a split-second decision that had lasting consequences?"
Stills
Stay Close — still 1
Stay Close — still 2
Stay Close — still 3
Stay Close — still 4

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