By Uma Ribeiro

Co-News Editor

unnamedPhoto Credit: Variety.com

If you haven’t already heard of this classic and imaginative show filled with horror, sci-fi,  drama, and even bits of comedy, now is the time to give it a watch. The name, The Twilight Zone, refers to situations that simply cannot be explained, often ones defying logic and filled with strange and surreal happenings. The iconic monologue read by the show’s creator and famous host, Rod Serling, serves as a fitting introduction to each season one episode. He describes the Twilight Zone as “… the middle ground between light and shadow, between science and superstition, and it lies between the pit of man’s fears and the summit of his knowledge.” The original series, which aired from 1959 to 1964, is available on Netflix, with an absence of season four due to its inconsistent episode lengths and differing style compared to the other seasons. 

With each episode featured on Netflix lasting about twenty-five minutes, this show is perfect to watch when taking a break from a long day of procrastinating. Some episodes are based on chilling short stories, others are taken from old radio shows, and most were written by the show’s creator and narrator. The Twilight Zone is filled with dark and unexpected twists and is known to leave the audience thinking of the mystery and macabre in every story long after the episode is over. Despite The Twilight Zone original series airing over fifty years ago, the show is still as timeless and fitting as ever, as the themes presented in so many episodes resonate with all audiences, regardless of the time period. Through its unusual and often unsettling lens, The Twilight Zone often presents topics such as the wavering sanity and the fears of man, as well as poses interesting and thought-provoking “What Ifs” that are sure to have crossed many curious minds.

Characters differ from episode to episode, as each contains its own story in the Rod Serling anthology. The acting does not disappoint and the oddities of each episode are sure to keep any viewer intrigued. Still wondering if you should commit to binging? The Twilight Zone is recommended for those who are getting sick of the persistence of shows like Riverdale, those who are fans of psychological thriller and some fantasy, those who aren’t into hardcore horror, but like a bit of suspense, and those who appreciate short episodes containing a great amount of substance. 

Since the original series ended in 1964, remakes and revivals have surfaced over the years. However, those who have watched the classic argue it reigns supreme. During a time that seems to be pulled straight from The Twilight Zone itself, it is only fitting to give this show a watch so you can say, “well, at least things aren’t that crazy.” Seasons one, two, three, and five are available on Netflix while all five seasons are available for streaming on Hulu.