"What did I just watch?": New Netflix hit "Sirens" tops the charts but completely confuses and divides viewers
The new Netflix series "Sirens" has left viewers confused and, although it currently holds the number one spot on the Top 10 list, it has sparked divided reactions.
Netflix recently premiered its latest mini-series "Sirens", an adaptation of the 2011 play "Elemeno Pea" by Molly Smith Metzler.
The plot follows Devon, a troubled woman from Buffalo, who travels to a luxurious seaside town aiming to reconnect with her estranged sister Simon – reports Nova.
Upon arrival, Devon discovers that Simon works as an assistant to the mysterious billionaire Michaela (Kiki) Kell, a woman with a magnetic personality who draws admiration from everyone – a true example of a modern-day siren. Devon becomes increasingly suspicious of their relationship, especially after finding her sister sharing a bed with Michaela, noticing that she has removed her tattoos and is beginning to resemble other members of Michaela’s circle.
While trying to “rescue” her, Devon herself descends into destructive behavior – engaging in casual sex and smoking marijuana with Michaela’s husband, Peter.
Spoiler alert!
Although Netflix labeled "Sirens" as a dark comedy and a “sharp, sexy, and witty analysis of women, power, and class differences,” audiences are split over what they are actually watching.
With themes of morally corrupt elites, comparisons to hits like "The White Lotus" and "The Perfect Couple", psychological dilemmas, and unusual directing (notably a bathtub scene in which Michaela seemingly hypnotizes Devon), many are asking – is this satire, thriller, or something else entirely?
On Reddit, one user said they liked that "it’s impossible to pin down the genre," adding: "Satire? Thriller? The show is slowly unfolding." Another commented that they expected a sci-fi twist revealing Kiki as their mother and that they were all – sirens.
On X (formerly Twitter), the series has already gained a cult following, described as “an endlessly entertaining study of class and family dynamics.” Some see it as a modern soap opera, giving viewers a peek into the dazzling world of the rich and unreliable.
Essentially, "Sirens" defies single-genre classification. Through its female perspectives, the series blends elements of satire, mystery, social critique, and genuine comedy – with standout performances, especially by Meghann Fahy. It explores complex relationships between women, power dynamics, betrayal, morality, and the eternal conflict between authentic identity and public image.
Still, despite the appealing trailer, some viewers were left disappointed.
One user wrote: “Watching Sirens on Netflix and this is nowhere near as creepy as the trailer made it seem. I’m really disappointed.” Another added: “Sirens is a big letdown, sorry.” A third commented: “I finished the series and I’m still confused. What did I just watch?”
On the other hand, many were thrilled.
“Watching the first episode of Sirens – it’s great! Fun, sexy, and mysterious. I’m intrigued!”, wrote one user. Another simply said: “Sirens on Netflix is really good.”
And someone who binge-watched the whole season added: “I really liked it. I can't remember the last time a series surprised me like this. I didn’t expect the twists and the ending was totally unexpected. Great performances by the trio.”
The quality of the series is also reflected in its ratings. Although it premiered just a few days ago, it already has a solid 6.9/10 rating on IMDb, while on Rotten Tomatoes it holds a 73% critic score and 70% audience score.
