Mark Wahlberg's career has seen its fair share of ups and downs, but few films have been as universally panned as his 2008 sci-fi thriller The Happening. Directed by M. Night Shyamalan, the movie has long been a punchline in Hollywood circles, yet it's now finding a new audience on Peacock. As of September 2026, the film is available to stream, giving viewers a chance to see why it's become a cult classic of sorts.
The movie follows a high school science teacher (Wahlberg) and his family as they flee a mysterious epidemic that causes people to suddenly and violently take their own lives. The premise, which sounds like a Stephen King novel, was actually inspired by King's works, and it predates the similarly themed A Quiet Place by over a decade. Despite its ambitious concept, the execution left critics and audiences scratching their heads.
Upon release, The Happening was slammed by reviewers, earning a dismal 17% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The consensus called it "incoherent and unconvincing," and it marked a low point for Shyamalan, who had previously dazzled audiences with The Sixth Sense and Signs. The film's poor reception was a stark contrast to Wahlberg's Oscar-nominated turn in The Departed just two years earlier.
Despite the critical drubbing, The Happening managed to gross over $160 million worldwide against a $60 million budget, proving that curiosity alone can drive ticket sales. It also became a favorite among fans of so-bad-it's-good cinema, with Wahlberg's now-iconic line about "hot dogs" becoming a meme-worthy moment.
For Shyamalan, the film was the beginning of a rough patch that included The Last Airbender and After Earth. However, he eventually rebounded with hits like Split and Glass, reminding audiences of his storytelling prowess. Now, with The Happening on Peacock, a new generation can experience the film that nearly derailed his career.
If you're in the mood for a thriller that's more laugh-out-loud than edge-of-your-seat, The Happening is worth a stream. And if you're looking for more spy-thriller action, check out Tom Hiddleston's gripping series on Prime Video or Simon Pegg's underrated Peacock gem. For those who prefer their thrillers with a side of horror, the bloody hit Ready or Not is also dominating streaming charts.
So, whether you're a longtime fan of Wahlberg or just curious about cinematic train wrecks, The Happening is now just a click away on Peacock. Don't say we didn't warn you.
