Control Z - Blog Posts

Control Z: shows you should watch instead

Control Z was an entertaining watch /at times/. However, I wouldn’t go around recommending it to people. The characters and the storyline lacked depth, and too many questions were left unanswered. While watching it I couldn’t stop thinking how much the plot, the characters and some directorial choices reminded me of other better shows. So here’s the list of those that I would rather watch instead. However, it can also be considered as a list of shows that you might like if you enjoyed Control Z.

GOSSIP GIRL [2007-2012]

Gossip Girl revolves around the lives of privileged white teenagers and their “problems”. Lots of sex, love triangles, mind games and secrets. Oh, and of course there’s a mystery blog that publishes all the secrets of Manhattan’s elite (that being basically four people). The secret identity of gossip girl isn’t that big of a plot point, at least early on. The main characters are probably too busy partying, hooking up and dealing with their terrible parents to care about somebody documenting their lives.

Gossip Girl has a lot of similar elements to Control Z, but it’s way more messier, dramatic, over the top and fast paced. Although its problematic moments and lack of representation definitely make it a guilty pleasure, it’s still one of the most iconic teen dramas to this day.

ELITE [2018-...]

If you want to watch another show in Spanish, this one’s for you.

Rich teenagers in a private school. Check. Mystery drama. Check. A LOT of secrets. Check. And on top of that, sex, drugs, parties and MURDER.

The most appealing thing about the show must be the striking set of characters with different backgrounds, struggles, fears and desires. Although, just like in Control Z you can’t really trust anybody as you set forth on this murderous journey.

PRETTY LITTLE LIARS [2010-2017]

A story about four estranged friends, whose lives are turned upside down by an anonymous threatening their lives and unraveling their secrets.

This is honestly a mess of a show. Too convoluted, with many plot holes, and questionable storylines. What kept the attention of the audience throughout the years were the characters and the romantic pairings. Nonetheless, the show’s entertaining and suspenseful. With higher stakes if we compare it to Control Z.

T@GGED [2016-2018]

T@gged is a psychological thriller. We follow three girls who try to find out who’s tagging them in violent videos.

The production is low-budget, yet there’s beautiful scenery and camera work. It isn’t a typical glossy teen show. The characters and their struggles are realistic and relatable. It tackles such topics as drug abuse, suicide, depression, self harm, cyber bullying. It is darker and scarier that Control Z, and it is the only underrated show on this list.

SPOILERS FOR CONTROL Z BELOW

YOU [2018-...]

If you enjoyed Raul’s villain origin story in episode 7 and/or would like a more realistic and in depth glimpse into the psyche of an obsessive stalker, YOU is for you. It takes the stalker plot to another level, actually exposing it for what it is in real life, creepy and unhealthy. Watching a girl through her windows, following her at the park and kidnapping everyone who stands in your way is not cute. Joe is no Raul, but he is what Raul failed to be, a well-written villain.

SHERLOCK [2010-2017]

So, Sofia being able to read everyone’s secrets just because she’s introverted and observant was far-fetched. Moreover, it wasn’t original. The idea of cutting frames, flashing clues and close-ups was taken straight from Sherlock. It was the first show Control Z reminded me of. And if you want a detective show of higher quality, here you go.

Thanks for reading❤️ Hope you found something new to watch!