“The Watcher”, a new mystery series, joined Netflix on Oct. 13. Based on the true story of 657 Boulevard in Westfield, a family receives threatening letters from an anonymous person who calls themselves “The Watcher.” This story dates back to 2014 and its news is quickly gaining popularity for the true house location and the town of Westfield. 

A controversy regarding the new series is whether the events in the show are based on real matters or not. Though the actual foundation of the story is true, there are some factors within the show that may seem far from reality.

Though some moments and characters in “The Watcher” are made up, I believe that the show’s writers did a good job of placing these events in the series to continue the frightening uprise that keeps you off your feet while watching. 

“They could’ve made the story a little closer to the truth of what actually happened. Since they stretched out the plot, people who don’t know much about Westfield are definitely going to think negatively about the town,” SPFHS sophomore Keira St. John said. 

I would recommend this show to anyone who is interested in a whodunit mystery show. All seven episodes bring new spine-chilling horrors that bring the audience closer to the reveal of the watcher. 

“I found the scariest part was the fact that the case was unsolved, especially how close it is to my community. To this day we still have no information about what happened,” SPFHS junior Alyssa Alvarez said. 

There hasn’t been any recent news of the Watcher, but the person who sent the letters was never identified. This may be disturbing to some who watch the show and live in the community.                                                     

Putting aside all the chilling moments found in “The Watcher,” I highly enjoyed the cast. Some of the most memorable actors include Jennifer Coolidge, Bobby Cannavale and Naomi Watts. My favorite actress in the show, Coolidge, plays a rich entitled real estate agent. She does an excellent job playing the role while including her usual humor and memorable catchphrases. 

Whether this show has a negative effect on the community or not, I still believe “The Watcher” is a great series that carries a deep-rooted, mysterious plot. Though this may stir up rumors about Westfield, the show never claimed to be a documentary, but instead a show based on the stories.