The Survivors: The Netflix Series With Twists So Sharp You’ll Doubt Everyone

Netflix has a new hit on its hands, and this one comes with a rare badge of honor: a 100% Rotten Tomatoes rating. The Survivors, a six-part thriller based on Jane Harper’s bestselling novel, isn’t just binge-worthy. It’s unforgettable.

Although many wonder if it's based on a true story. This Netflix series is not.

Set in the fictional town of Evelyn Bay, Tasmania, The Survivors follows Kieran Elliot, a man still reeling from the traumatic night 15 years earlier when his brother and best friend drowned trying to save him during a deadly storm. That same night, a local girl named Gabby vanished. Her disappearance remains an open wound in a town full of secrets.

When Kieran returns home, he’s not the only one digging into the past. A stranger named Brontë arrives, determined to find out what really happened to Gabby. But when Brontë turns up dead on the beach, it becomes terrifyingly clear—someone is willing to kill to keep the past buried.

What unfolds is a tightly wound mystery with an undercurrent of grief and guilt. The performances are raw, especially from Charlie Vickers as Kieran and Robyn Malcolm as Verity. The setting—crashing waves, cold sand, and wind-swept cliffs—feels like a character of its own.

The show doesn’t lean on cheap jump scares or overly graphic content. Instead, it builds a slow, suffocating tension that crescendos with each episode. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, The Survivors throws another curveball.

One viewer wrote, "The Survivors is not just another crime drama; it’s a profound exploration of how past traumas shape our present and the lengths to which people go to protect their secrets. With its compelling storytelling, rich character development, and atmospheric setting, this six-part series is a masterclass in emotional storytelling. Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers or character-driven dramas, The Survivors promises a viewing experience that will linger long after the credits roll."

Another person who binged the series also quickly started reading the source material. "Gripping, well acted, beautiful cinematography and such a good, satisfying ending! I loved the main romance between Kieran and Mia, as well as the lack of clichés. The series is nuanced and emotional and very well done. Highly recommend! (I immediately started the book after finishing, too!)"

Critics aren’t just handing out perfect scores for nothing — this show earns every bit of praise. With just six episodes, it’s a binge-worthy mystery that respects your time and rewards your attention. If you’re looking for your next thriller obsession, The Survivors might be it.

With only six episodes, it’s a quick binge, but don’t expect to feel settled when it ends. This one lingers. All six episodes are now streaming on Netflix.