At first glance, Netflix’s new super-powered teen series I Am Not Okay With This seem to be an obvious companion to Stranger Things. Not only do the two shows share producers and feature young girls with mystifying powers, but also stars two of the child actors of the IT films (Sophia Lillis and Wyatt Oleff). A shell-shocked Sydney (Sophia Lillis) walks down an abandoned street, drenched in blood. The plot follows a 17-year-old Syd, whose attempts to successfully navigate high school following the recent death of her father. Snarky and introverted, Syd can’t seem to figure out how to interact with other kids her age – not that she really wants to – with the exception of her best friend, Dina (Sofia Bryant). Dina recently got herself a boyfriend Brad (Richard Ellis), which means she’s been spending a lot more time with him and less with Sydney. Uncertain how to cope with her complex feelings of jealousy and self-doubt, Syd befriends her off-kilter neighbour, Stanley (Oleff), as we quickly learn, Stan actually cares a lot about several things – the only person who seems to take genuine interest in her besides Dina. Syd comes off as an unlikable character, but Lillis imbues her with such a strong sense of vulnerability and longing. Oleff is a definite high point, stealing pretty much every scene he’s in. As a coming-of-age dark teen comedy, I Am Not Okay With This totally works, delivering engaging characters, smart humour, and an immensely talented young cast.