Stephen King’s unsettling novel The Institute is making its long-awaited leap from page to screen, and fans of psychological suspense won’t want to miss it. Premiering July 13 on MGM+, the eight-part series promises to deliver a chilling, character-driven thriller that captures the haunting atmosphere of the bestselling book. Directed by Jack Bender (Lost, Child’s Play 3) and written by Benjamin Cavell (Homeland, The Stand), the show brings together a strong cast and an unnerving tone; equal parts sci-fi mystery and Orwellian thriller.
Weekly episodes will follow the two-part premiere, drawing audiences deeper into the shadowy world of the Institute and its secrets.
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What is ‘The Institute’ About
At just fourteen, Luke Ellis, a prodigy with telekinetic abilities, finds himself abducted by armed kidnappers. He awakens in the confines of the Institute, a clandestine establishment designed for exceptional children like Luke. These kids, all endowed with extraordinary feats of telepathy, telekinesis and precognition, are lorded over by the charmingly menacing Ms. Sigsby and an unforgiving staff. They are subjected to unauthorized and harrowing experiments, so that the Institute may tap into their remarkable abilities for reasons unknown.
In this dark and oppressive environment, Luke forges close bonds with a tight-knit group of fellow inmates. Together, they hatch a plan to outsmart the Institute’s sinister operations and seek a way to freedom. Meanwhile, not far off, a troubled ex-police officer named Tim Jamieson is looking to turn over a new leaf. However, tranquility seems to be fleeting, as the threads of his story are fated to intertwine with Luke’s in unexpected ways.
‘The Institute’ Cast
You’re likely to recognize some of the leading names in the series, but take note of newcomer Joe Freeman who is generating buzz for this breakout role:
- Joe Freeman (his first major TV role) as Luke Ellis
- A 14-year-old telekinetic prodigy, Luke is abducted and held at the sinister Institute.
- Ben Barnes (Westworld, Shadow and Bone) as Tim Jamieson
- A haunted ex-cop turned small town night-patrol officer who becomes the moral center of the story.
- Mary Louise Parker (Weeds, The West Wing) as Ms. Sigsby
- The cold, iron-willed director of the Institute who believes she’s saving the world by any means necessary.
Supporting Cast
- Simone Miller as Kalisha
- Jason Diaz as Tony
- Brendan Beiser as Norbert Hollister
- Fionn Laird as Nick
- Hannah Galway as Wendy
- Jordan Alexander as Kate
- Martin Roach as Chief Ashworth
- Mary Walsh as Annie
- Robert Joy as Hendricks
- Viggo Hanvelt as Avery
- Julian Richings as Stackhouse
- Dan Beirne as Drew
- Arlen So as George
- Birva Pandya as Iris
- Jane Luk as Maureen
Watch ‘The Institute’ on DIRECTV
With DIRECTV you don’t have to miss this compellingly eerie series full of King’s trademark suspense and heart. Watch The Institute and many other MGM+ originals when you subscribe to DIRECTV today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'The Institute' by Stephen King part of a series?
No, the novel is considered a stand-alone work. is the institute by stephen king a movie?
Is 'The Institute' by Stephen King a movie?
Not a movie, but now an exciting new TV show on MGM+!
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