The Institute

If viewed from the perspective of someone who hasn't read the book, the show isn't bad. It has a slow pace, but it's all buildup to The Institute "universe". There's not much horror (other than the nefarious reasons for the Institutes existence), no blood or gore. No monsters other than the humans lacking empathy and humanity. Acting is good, and I did become interested in the characters and what's to become of them as the series progresses. It's too early to tell if the writers will pull any punches, or let us have it.

The series may not be as good as the book or as true to its characters, but it's worth watching.

Another series with Stephen King influence. An interesting concept about a school environment for kids with special abilities. The main character is extremely intelligent and uses his wit to investigate the institutes intentions. The dialogue is a bit corny. The acting sometimes feels off but the suspense kept me engaged.

I like the plot. I'm looking forward to seeing more episodes but I'm afraid corny dialogue could dilute the quality of this series. This could easily turn into a bad goosebumps episode. I'm not sure if this is supposed to be a show for teens or adults. Reminds me of stranger things but less impactful.

I'm a very "stick-to-the-source-material" kind of guy, and I think this is a very good adaptation.

Sure, there were some minor changes to the story but nothing that really stuck out, or perhaps would have been unfaithful to the book.

The teenagers are actually teenagers and not run of the mill 25 year old body builders and models. The story is as close to the source material as can be while allowing for editing for the big screen.

As for the budget, sure, it does feel like a lower end budget series, but thats because..it was? Kinda? Don't necessarily love this, but if we want Hollywood to invest in shows that might make it, and not just shows that WILL make it even boilerplate though they are, I'm happy with that compromise.

Do recommend!

Haven't read the book so can't comment on adaptation but haven't watched such a well paced tension builder in a long time. The characters are likeable and the sci-fi concept sound, if you are a sci/fi fan you won't be disappointed with this one. The scenes with the kids can be a bit hard to watch and the villains are a bit OTT but it was a very enjoyable watch nonetheless.

The beginning of book has a terrifying event that the TV show greatly waters down 😐.

That set up the expectations of what this show will be, watered down version of book.

This will not be horror nor thriller and more sci-fi drama if anything.

Thus my expectations have been lowered and so will continue to watch it for what it is, family friendly show. Even the aesthetics of show such as lighting suggests a more toned down feel compared to books.

Serviceable is best way to describe show if you read book. Cast and acting good, no complaints there.

It will be probably be more exciting for those who have not read books👍.