I binged Wayward in a single day because the mystery, Toni Collette's magnetic performance as the academy director, and the phenomenal child actors kept my attention. Unfortunately, the show stumbles where it matters most: the central couple.
Mae Martin, who is non binary and plays Alex, simply doesn't carry the weight this role demands. Their youthful look works in some contexts but makes the marriage to Laura feel more like mother and son than spouses. The lack of believable chemistry is striking, and it drains tension from scenes that should feel emotionally charged.
The problem isn't their identity, it's the performance. Alex is meant to be a grounded, authoritative police officer, but the portrayal feels more like an inexperienced high schooler. Combined with inconsistent character motivations, illogical decisions, and unresolved elements of the academy, these issues undermine the otherwise strong atmosphere. For example, Laura's abrupt behavioral shifts, Alex's questionable choices, and the ambiguous fates of other characters leave significant gaps in the story.
The real standouts are the kids and Toni Collette, who steal every scene and make the series watchable despite its flaws.
Overall, Wayward has style, mystery, and standout supporting performances, but weak acting from the lead and unresolved plot issues prevent it from fully succeeding.
