If You're Still Sad 'Stranger Things' Is Over, Watch This Overlooked Mystery Drama
This show is a reimagining of the scandalous story of a real nine-year-old investigative journalist.
Imagine a child who runs her own online publication and investigates a 25-year-old unsolved murder in a small town while ignoring the skepticism of adults.
Home Before Dark tells that very story. Inspired by the real-life experiences of nine-year-old journalist Hilde Lysiak, the Apple TV+ series combines detective intrigue, family drama, and a nostalgic journey back to childhood.
What Is 'Home Before Dark' About?
Nine-year-old Hilde Lisko moves with her family from Brooklyn to the quiet lakeside town where her father grew up.
She soon learns of a dark stain on the town's history: twenty-five years ago, a boy named Richie Fife was kidnapped and murdered and the man convicted of the crime may be innocent.
Obsessed with journalism and determined to publish her own online newspaper, Hilde is determined to uncover the truth despite the resistance of adults.
'Home Before Dark' Is Based on a Real-Life Story
The main character is based on nine-year-old real-life journalist Hilde Kate Lysiak. She became famous in 2016 when she was the first to publish an exclusive report from the scene of a suspected murder in her town.
The report sparked a storm of online hatred and accusations against her parents, but it didn't break the young journalist. Today, Hilde is a renowned journalist. She served as a script consultant for Home Before Dark, lending authenticity and depth to the story.
'Home Before Dark' Is a Cozy Show With a Unique Visual Style, Pop Culture References, and 80s Vibe
The world of Home Before Dark evokes Steven Spielberg classics and Stranger Things with images of children riding bicycles through the streets at night. Nighttime scenes are filled with mysterious, almost Lynchian tension yet imbued with a sense of homeliness.
Animated sequences add warmth and distinguish the project from others, making it more accessible for family viewing.
Home Before Dark is a story of courage and perseverance that shows even the youngest voice can be heard if you believe in it.
What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Home Before Dark'?
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Home Before Dark has 81% from critics and viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.
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On IMDb, the series has a score of 7.4/10.
Where to Watch 'Home Before Dark'?
Home Before Dark is available to stream on Apple TV+.
