Reel Review: School Spirits Chilling Return in Episode 4
Just when you think things are looking up for Maddie and the spirits, another mystery unfolds! Episode 4 of School Spirits is here and quite literally brings us ‘A Walk-In to Remember.’
Recapping the first three episodes, Maddie and her gang are stuck in Split River High to find more clues on Janet, the girl who has officially taken over Maddie’s body. With their teacher, Mr. Martin, also missing, the mystery seems far from over. After a tragic house-fire and a college party gone wrong, episode three leaves us with the return of Maddie (aka Janet) who comes back to town and is seemingly here to stay… and cause more trouble.
Episode 4 digs deeper into the lives of some characters we haven’t gotten to fully learn about yet. Wally (Milo Manheim) is forced to confront his past by returning to the football field he died on in search of any clues that can hopefully track down Mr. Martin. Manheim’s portrayal of anxiety and fear made this scene feel so authentic. Wally sees himself on the field moments before the disaster. Manheim perfectly depicts what facing your biggest fears can feel like, and what it’s like to go through the process alone.
This episode also does a fantastic job with transitions and parallels, especially between Janet’s past and Maddie’s present. Of course, the show would not work without Peyton List’s incredible performance as both Maddie and Janet (when she’s in Maddie’s body). This season has showcased List’s range and acting ability very well. With just one look she can change personalities; switching between Maddie and Janet. List’s performance is what truly makes the show able to work.
Meanwhile, the living gang is also left in shambles. Simon manages to convince Nicole, Xavier, and Claire about Maddie's current situation and together they discover that Janet is back, living in Maddie’s house. We really begin to see a true friendship form among these four in this episode. These characters heavily rely on each other in times of need and help each other through a lot, especially Claire and Simon.
Claire discovers some heartbreaking news in her already damaged home life and confides in Simon, who is a great shoulder to cry on. Both Rainbow Wedell and Kristian Ventura deliver a powerful and emotional scene that accurately depicts what it’s like to finally be seen and supported by a true friend.
This emotional turmoil leads us right to the dramatic ending of episode 4 when the spirits find that Mr. Martin has the ability to shapeshift! That’s right, he could have left the school in the body of any student. With Mr. Martin now gone, the number of unanswered questions begin to grow. After an emotional and dramatic fourth episode, we can’t wait to see where the next episode leads us.
The first 4 episodes of School Spirits season 2 are now available to stream on Paramount+.
