The psychological thriller ‘You’ first hit screens in 2018, gripping viewers with its dark dive into obsession and deception. Its mix of twisted romance, sharp social commentary, and chilling suspense made it a standout, following Joe Goldberg’s descent into dangerous fixation across multiple seasons.

As I revisit the show in 2025, some parts feel dated or awkward, while others remain as captivating as ever. Below, I break down five ways ‘You’ (2018-2025) struggles to hold up and five ways it continues to impress, reflecting on what keeps this series both flawed and fascinating.

5 Ways ‘You’ (2018-2025) Aged Poorly

Overreliance on Joe’s Inner Monologue

The constant narration of Joe’s thoughts, voiced by Penn Badgley, was a bold choice to pull viewers into his warped mind. Early on, it felt fresh, giving insight into his justifications for stalking and violence.

Now, it can feel repetitive and heavy-handed. The endless stream of Joe’s self-rationalizing inner dialogue sometimes overshadows the action, making scenes drag and reducing suspense for modern audiences who prefer subtler storytelling.

Dated Social Media Tropes

‘You’ leaned heavily into social media as a plot device, with Joe using platforms like Instagram to track his targets, especially in season one with Beck. This felt cutting-edge at the time, capturing the early 2010s digital obsession.

In 2025, the portrayal feels outdated. Social media habits have evolved, and the show’s focus on basic online stalking tactics—like scrolling public profiles—seems simplistic compared to today’s complex digital landscape, making some plot points less believable.

Underdeveloped Supporting Characters

Supporting characters like Peach or Forty often felt like plot devices rather than fully realized people. Their arcs, while entertaining, lacked depth, serving mainly to push Joe’s story forward.

On rewatch, this flatness stands out. Modern shows like ‘Succession’ (2018-2023) or ‘The White Lotus’ (2021-2025) give side characters richer lives, making ‘You’ feel thin in comparison when it leans too heavily on Joe’s perspective.

Romanticizing Toxic Behavior

The show’s early seasons, particularly with Joe and Beck, framed his obsessive actions as darkly romantic, blurring the line between love and control. This drew viewers in but walked a fine line.

Looking back, this approach feels tone-deaf. Today’s audiences are more critical of narratives that glamorize toxic relationships, and moments where Joe’s stalking is played for charm clash with evolving views on consent and boundaries.

Predictable Plot Twists

‘You’ thrives on shocking reveals, like Love’s true nature in season two. But some twists, especially in later seasons, feel formulaic, recycling the same cat-and-mouse dynamic.

Rewatching in 2025, the predictability is clear. With shows like ‘Your Honor’ (2020-2023) raising the bar for unexpected turns, ‘You’ can feel repetitive, leaning on familiar beats that don’t surprise as much anymore.

5 Ways ‘You’ (2018-2025) Aged Masterfully

Penn Badgley’s Captivating Performance

Penn Badgley’s portrayal of Joe Goldberg remains a highlight, blending charm, menace, and vulnerability in a way that keeps you hooked. His ability to make Joe both repulsive and magnetic is a masterclass in acting.

Even now, Badgley’s performance holds up, carrying quieter moments and intense confrontations with equal skill. His work keeps ‘You’ rewatchable, rivaling complex characters in shows like ‘Breaking Bad’ (2008-2013).

Sharp Social Commentary

‘You’ cleverly critiques privilege, class, and modern relationships, from Joe’s judgment of shallow elites in season three to his navigation of high society in season four. These themes hit hard when the show first aired.

They still resonate in 2025. The exploration of how wealth and status enable bad behavior feels timeless, echoing discussions in shows like ‘Industry’ (2020-2024), making ‘You’ a sharp mirror for societal flaws.

Binge-Worthy Pacing

The show’s tight episodes and cliffhangers made it a streaming hit, pulling viewers through seasons with relentless momentum. Each finale, like season two’s shocking reveal of Love’s darkness, leaves you eager for more.

This pacing still works. In an era of bloated series, ‘You’ keeps episodes lean and engaging, matching the addictive quality of hits like ‘Stranger Things’ (2016-2025).

Evolving Character Arcs

Joe’s journey across seasons, from bookstore manager to reluctant killer to high-society player, shows impressive growth while staying true to his core flaws. Characters like Love, played by Victoria Pedretti, add fresh dynamics.

This evolution feels masterful on rewatch. The show balances continuity with change, keeping Joe’s story compelling while avoiding stagnation, much like ‘Better Call Saul’ (2015-2022).

Stylish Visuals and Atmosphere

‘You’ nails its aesthetic, from moody New York streets in season one to glossy Los Angeles suburbs in season three. The cinematography, paired with a haunting soundtrack, creates a distinct vibe.

These visuals still pop. The show’s polished look and tense atmosphere hold up against newer thrillers like ‘The Undoing’ (2020), making every episode visually gripping.

What’s your take on ‘You’—which moments still grab you, or what feels off now? Drop your thoughts in the comments!