Apple TV’s Severance: A Surreal Workplace Thriller That Cuts Deep
Apple TV’s Severance has quickly become one of the most talked-about psychological thrillers in recent years. Created by Dan Erickson and directed by Ben Stiller and Aoife McArdle, the series offers a chilling, thought-provoking look at work-life balance—taken to a disturbing extreme.
The show centers on Mark Scout (played by Adam Scott), an employee at Lumon Industries who undergoes a mysterious surgical procedure called “severance,” which splits his memories between his work self (the “innie”) and his personal self (the “outie”). Neither version knows what the other experiences, creating a haunting dual existence.
What starts as a dystopian workplace satire quickly spirals into a complex web of corporate secrecy, existential dread, and emotional depth. The eerie tone, minimalist production design, and haunting score build a world that feels both sterile and sinister.
Severance has earned critical acclaim for its originality, sharp writing, and powerful performances, particularly from Scott, Patricia Arquette, and John Turturro. With it being renewed for third season, fans are eager to dive deeper into the mysteries of Lumon and the psychological cost of compartmentalising our lives.
Equal parts Black Mirror and Office Space, Severance is a must-watch for anyone who’s ever questioned the line between work and identity. The first two season are available to stream now.
