Something is missing this year, and I can’t quite explain it.
I was completely captivated by the first three seasons of American Horror Story, but something is painfully frustrating about this season. Maybe it’s the fact that it’s not actually scary? It feels like we’re just witnessing a random (albeit an impeccably well-produced) drama that happens to take place in a circus. I know that the show’s ability to completely reinvent itself every year is impressive, but this season feels completely off. I don’t just find myself rushing to watch (or review) new episodes, and that’s a real shame.
I want to say that Elsa is a fascinating character, but it’s starting to feel like Jessica Lange is playing the manipulative selfish has-been every season (well for two seasons in a row at least). Sure she’s an absolutely phenomenal actress, but I wish she was playing a role that was a tad different this season. Nevertheless, it was admittedly enjoyable to watch her break down and go completely berserk on her monsters culminating with her killing(?) her lover Paul (played to perfection by Mat Fraser).
Thankfully, Bette and Dot had a hilarious and demented storyline as they began to get used to Dandy and Gloria’s luxury before discovering his dark side. Sarah Paulson continues to do spectacular work this season, and even the CGI doesn’t annoy me nearly as much as it used to. Moreover, Dandy and Gloria’s twisted dynamic is just ridiculously fun to watch, and they’re definitely the twosome I most enjoy watching.
Frightful Bits
– The most amusing moment of the hour: Elsa opening her presents. I love how she cuddles Ma Petite.
– So Paul was sleeping with Meryl Streep’s daughter from the premiere (the orgy nurse). I honestly can’t remember her name and I don’t care.
– Didn’t Bette and Dot’s food look absolutely scrumptious? Gimme!
– Loved Paul figuring out that Dandy has the twins by looking at the stuff he bought in the shop.
– I’m happy that Emma Roberts get to play a role that greatly contrasts her bitchy ice-princess last year. I cringed when she almost killed Ma Petite. Stanley on the other hand bores me to tears.
– So Dandy now knows that his purpose is to “bring death”. Charming.
– Great foreshadowing with Ethel telling Elsa that if she finds out she was lying, she’ll kill her. Also, Elsa had a baby sister who died.
– No Dell? No Desiree? How are we expected to buy that?
Spooky Slurs
Elsa: I control my fate. I have survived because I know one must be willing to destroy anyone, anything, even the things you love, to keep the gods in check.
Elsa: I take that ungrateful hydra dress shopping, and the second I turn my back to buy a slip, they sneak out the back.
Conclusion
An effective albeit far from thrilling hour of American Horror Story. I may be in the minority here but I’m just not feeling this season.
Nad Rating
B-
You're right about the similarity between the characters Jessica Lange has played throughout the show. She's a great actress but I was hoping she would play a character that isn't manipulative or ruthless like the others. Evan Peters has his own character variety from a psychotic, damaged ghost to a good-hearted man framed for crimes he didn't commit to a Frankenstein monster who falls in love with a witch to a freak who yearns for a normal life.
So true. Glad you agree 🙂