The opening shot of School Spirits lingers on Peyton List’s Maddie Nears, her eyes wide with ghostly curiosity as she navigates the halls of her high school—alive but unseen. It’s a striking visual metaphor for the show’s central premise: a teen stuck in limbo, investigating her own murder while grappling with the banality and brutality of adolescent life.

Created by Nate Trinrud and Megan Trinrud, School Spirits is a supernatural mystery wrapped in a coming-of-age drama. Maddie, recently deceased but clinging to the mortal world, teams up with a ragtag group of students—each with their own secrets—to unravel the truth behind her disappearance. The show’s strength lies in its ability to balance humor and horror, blending witty banter with genuinely unsettling moments.

List delivers a standout performance as Maddie, imbuing her character with a mix of vulnerability and determination. Milo Manheim’s Wally Clark, the love interest, brings charm and depth, while Kristian Ventura’s Simon Elroy steals scenes with his deadpan delivery. The supporting cast is equally compelling, with standout turns from Kiara Pichardo as Nicole Herrera and Spencer MacPherson as Xavier Baxter.

The show’s originality shines in its premise—a ghostly murder mystery set against the backdrop of high school purgatory—but it falters occasionally in its pacing. Some episodes drag, bogged down by subplots that don’t always pay off. The finale, in particular, left many viewers frustrated and perplexed, with loose ends that feel unresolved.

The sound design is noteworthy, especially Anna Waronker’s haunting theme song, “Long Gone,” which sets the tone perfectly. The series’ soundtrack, available on Spotify, adds an extra layer of atmosphere, blending eerie melodies with upbeat tracks that reflect the show’s tonal shifts.

School Spirits fits neatly into the mystery genre but struggles to stand out among its peers. It’s a charming and engaging watch, but it lacks the sharpness of Riverdale or the depth of Pretty Little Liars.