After five seasons of murder, manipulation, and monologues, You has finally come to a close, and for the most part, it sticks the landing.
The show, which follows the obsessive and dangerously charming Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley), has always walked the line between psychological thriller and dark satire. Season 5 picks up with Joe trying to reconcile his past and present, while the ghosts of his former lives begin to close in. While the final season certainly has its moments, it also feels like the show was running on fumes. The pacing drags at times, and some plot threads feel stretched too thin, making it clear that the series may have overstayed its welcome.
That said, the ending is surprisingly satisfying. Longtime fans will appreciate how the show ties things together, especially with the return of several familiar faces that help bring Joe’s twisted journey full circle. It’s a nice reward for those who’ve stuck with the series from the start.
Penn Badgley once again delivers a strong performance as Joe, but it’s Anna Camp who steals her scenes this season with a standout performance as twin sisters. While not every scene lands, there’s no denying the appeal of its glossy, twisted charm.
You was never perfect, but it was often entertaining, provocative, and addictive. Season 5 might not be the show at its peak, but it’s a solid finish. In the end, it feels like a modern, sexier take on Dexter – whilst there is relief that it is over, it was certainly worth watching.