The Shards Review: Ryan Murphy's Serial Killer Thriller 2026

Claire Hodges
The Shards Review: Ryan Murphy's Serial Killer Thriller
This page may contain affiliate links.

The Shards review: Ryan Murphy's serial killer thriller on Disney+ is a must-watch, and we break down why this adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis's novel is generating rave reviews.

Why The Shards Is a Must-Watch TV Thriller

Ryan Murphy has returned to top form with The Shards, a slick adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis's metafictional novel. The series follows a serial killer stalking private school teenagers in Los Angeles, blending suspense with the director's signature style.


25% Off All iHerb Brands

Find Bleeding Edge Supplements at Scandalous Prices on iHerb.


Our reviewer Lucy Mangan praised the show, noting that the collaboration between Murphy and Ellis is "a marriage made in pop-culture heaven." The series has quickly become a standout in the current TV landscape.

ADVERTISEMENT

Plot and Performances

The story centers on a group of wealthy teens whose lives are disrupted by a mysterious killer. The performances are gripping, and the atmosphere is tense from the first episode. The adaptation stays true to the novel's dark themes while adding Murphy's visual flair.

If you're a fan of true crime or psychological dramas, The Shards offers a compelling narrative that keeps you guessing until the end.


Article image

Other Rave Reviews This Week

Beyond The Shards, the week has seen other notable releases. Sterling Point on Prime Video offers an escapist YA drama about a teenager inheriting a house in Canada, which our reviewer called "expertly fulfilling" its escapism brief.

Additionally, The Salisbury Poisonings: A Spy Next Door on Sky Documentaries provides a gripping look at the Skripal poisonings, with interviews from key political figures.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article image

Comparison Table: The Shards vs. Sterling Point

Feature The Shards Sterling Point
Genre Thriller/Drama YA Drama
Platform Disney+ Prime Video
Tone Dark and suspenseful Light and escapist
Review Verdict Top form Expertly fulfills brief

Key Takeaways from The Shards

  • Ryan Murphy's best work in years – The adaptation showcases his strengths.
  • Bret Easton Ellis's novel comes alive – The metafictional elements are preserved.
  • Strong performances – The young cast delivers compelling portrayals.
  • Must-watch for thriller fans – The suspense keeps you hooked.

FAQ: The Shards and This Week's TV Highlights

What is The Shards about?

The Shards is a TV adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis's novel about a serial killer targeting private school students in 1980s Los Angeles. It's directed by Ryan Murphy and available on Disney+.

Is The Shards worth watching?

Yes, critics are raving about it. Our review calls it "top form" for Ryan Murphy, and it's a gripping thriller with excellent performances.

What other shows got rave reviews this week?

Sterling Point on Prime Video and The Salisbury Poisonings: A Spy Next Door on Sky Documentaries also received positive reviews, offering different genres from YA drama to documentary.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a fan of Ryan Murphy or just love a good thriller, The Shards is a standout addition to your watchlist. With its compelling story and high production values, it's no surprise it's earning rave reviews.

Don't miss out on this cultural moment—stream it now on Disney+ and see what all the buzz is about.


Article image

Best Products We’ve Tested and Rated

Our testing team at work

Our testing team has hands-on reviews of propane shower, fifth wheel camper tires, caulk camper, rug, and utensils. Every option below was compared across price, build quality, and real-world performance, with honest pros and cons. We update these guides regularly as new models arrive, so the recommendations stay current.

ADVERTISEMENT

Our testing team has hands-on reviews of strains sinus pressure, lightweight tree stand, solar generator, spotlight long distance, and rechargeable spotlight. Every option below was compared across price, build quality, and real-world performance, with honest pros and cons. We update these guides regularly as new models arrive, so the recommendations stay current.

ADVERTISEMENT
Claire Hodges

Author

Claire Hodges

Claire Hodge is a seasoned writer and the head of content for the "Celebrities & Culture" magazine at Grand Goldman. With a background in journalism and a passion for Pop Culture / Fashion, she brings a unique blend of expertise and creativity. Her insightful articles and in-depth interviews have made her a bold voice in the industry, known for her ability to capture the idiosyncrasies of celebrity lives and cultural trends.


SPONSORED

Get Lifetime Access to the Lastest Movies, with Exclusive Offers & Free Express Order Delivery.

The best paddle surf board isn't at Decathlon: it's this one with thousands of accessories and outlet pricing - Grand Goldman

The best paddle surf board isn't at Decathlon: it's this one with thousands of accessories and outlet pricing - Grand Goldman

Even if you keep up a great workout routine all year round, when vacation time comes, we usually tend to slack off and put training aside. A good w...

Read
This is the best time to get cheap, good running shoes: here's why - Grand Goldman

This is the best time to get cheap, good running shoes: here's why - Grand Goldman

Running is an accessible sport and we only need a little time and a good pair of running shoes to get going, which we can find right now at a good ...

Read
Sports sunglasses: which is the best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

Sports sunglasses: which is the best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

The sun gives us energy that is vital for our system, but it can also harm us, which is why protection is vital. As Paracelsus said: the dose makes...

Read
The best folding stationary bikes: which one to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

The best folding stationary bikes: which one to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

When looking for a way to stay in shape from the comfort of our own home, few options are better than getting an exercise bike or a recumbent bike ...

Read
Pull-up bar: which one is best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

Pull-up bar: which one is best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

Pull-ups are undoubtedly one of the best exercises you can do to train your back and core muscles. Choosing a pull-up bar is not simple, as there a...

Read
Sports headphones: which is the best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

Sports headphones: which is the best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

There are times when exercising can get a bit boring and tedious; not every day we are and we need an external stimulus to encourage us to train. ...

Read
Sports Sunglasses: Which Is Best to Buy? Tips and Recommendations - Grand Goldman

Sports Sunglasses: Which Is Best to Buy? Tips and Recommendations - Grand Goldman

The sun provides us with energy that is vital for our system, but at the same time, it can be harmful. As Paracelsus said: the dose makes the poiso...

Read
These are the best thermal bottles to stay hydrated during this heat wave while we train in summer - Grand Goldman

These are the best thermal bottles to stay hydrated during this heat wave while we train in summer - Grand Goldman

We are experiencing one of the toughest weeks of summer, with places in the country reaching nearly 45º, making going outside dangerous, and even m...

Read
Adidas Salomon Reebok: the best deals on running and training shoes on Amazon Prime Day - Grand Goldman

Adidas Salomon Reebok: the best deals on running and training shoes on Amazon Prime Day - Grand Goldman

Finally, the Prime Day 2023 has begun, where we can find great deals on the Amazon website between July 11 and 12. We are sure that sports enthusia...

Read
Adidas, Puma, Reebok: the best deals on running and training shoes on Amazon Prime Day - Grand Goldman

Adidas, Puma, Reebok: the best deals on running and training shoes on Amazon Prime Day - Grand Goldman

Finally, Prime Day 2023 has begun, where we can find great deals on the Amazon website between July 11 and 12. Sports enthusiasts are sure to want ...

Read

ADVERTISEMENT




SPONSORED