Teacup:’ What reviewers are saying about series based on book by Alabama author

With four out of eight episodes now available, the Peacock series “Teacup” has garnered mostly positive reviews from online aggregators. Rotten Tomatoes rates it at 79%, while IMDb gives it a score of 7 out of 10.

The series, which premiered on October 10 and releases two new episodes each Thursday, is based on Alabama bestselling author Robert “Rick” McCammon’s 1988 novel “Stinger.” However, it appears to take a more conceptual approach rather than adhering strictly to the original plot.

According to its IMDb description, “Teacup” follows a group of neighbors trapped on a rural Georgia farm as they must put aside their differences to face a mysterious and deadly threat. Filmed in Atlanta and Covington, Georgia, McCammon noted, “They put a lot of work and money into it. I spoke with the screenwriters, and they did a great job. The book will always be my book, but it’s fascinating to see how others interpret it.”

The cast includes Yvonne Strahovski (“The Handmaid’s Tale,” “Dexter”), Scott Speedman (“Underworld”), Chaske Spencer (“Twilight”), Boris McGiver (“House of Cards”), and Emmy Award-winner Kathy Baker (“Picket Fences”). The series is produced by renowned horror filmmaker James Wan, creator of the “Insidious” and “Conjuring” franchises.

Stephen King, who had an early look at “Teacup,” shared on X: “TEACUP: If you like FROM or LOST, you’ll enjoy this. It’s strange, creepy, claustrophobic, and scary. Beware the Gas Mask Man. Short episodes. All killer, no filler.”

Here’s what reviewers are saying:

**Erik Kane for Forbes:**  

“Two episodes in, and I’m definitely curious to see where this goes, especially after a mysterious stranger shows up with terrifying implications. … Teacup is off to a scary start with a cast of complicated characters and a rapidly descending threat.”

**Meagan Bavarro for Bloody Disgusting:**  

“The inaugural season is structured around its enigmatic threat, making ‘Teacup’ a landmine of spoilers to dodge. While that leads to much setup, McCulloch’s careful plotting and effective atmosphere create an intense, rewarding experience.”

**Jeff Ewing for Collider:**  

“Teacup effectively plays with paranoia and mystery, bolstered by a talented cast. It has to confront a dangerous menace while dealing with distrust, echoing horror classics while maintaining its originality. Though uneven in execution, its interesting concept and strong performances create must-watch TV.”

**Brian Tallerico for RogerEbert.com:**  

“I appreciate when macro stories like alien invasions are told through a family’s lens, but ‘Teacup’ struggles with tonal balance and character depth. We need to care more about the people facing the end of the world, and while the final scene shows promise for season two, the creators must also care about these characters.”

Overall, “Teacup” is shaping up to be a compelling addition to the horror genre, with its unique concept and strong performances drawing viewers in.