Season 2 of American Horror Story premiered last Wednesday. Although the name and a few of the actors are familiar, the plot and setting are completely new. This season takes place in an asylum for the mentally insane known as Briarcliff. The premier started in present day as a young couple explored an abandoned version of the asylum. The setting then shifted to the 1960s, when Briarcliff was at its peak, and the focus changed from present to past a couple more times as the episode continued. This holds the potential to be used for some pretty complex storylines in which certain clues are discovered in the present and then connected to the story in the past or vice versa.
As far as the season two scares go, some seem better than others. The budding alien abduction plot, featuring season one fan favorite Evan Peters, seems a bit strange. Obviously my opinion is not going to be shared by everyone, however I just don't find aliens to be that scary in comparison to some of the other horror movie concepts out there. On the other hand, a sort of 'mad scientist' plot seems to be emerging that shows some great potential. There are few things creepier than a scientist or doctor hell bent on recognition, despite the potential consequences. Some of the most haunting moments of season one surrounded the doctor who built the house for his wife, then proceeded to create an ungodly infant creature that scared the shit out of the audience while compelling them to come back week after week. It seems as if the writers, perhaps realizing what a success this story line was in season one, decided to recreate a similar plot for season two. Good move thus far. We'll have to see what direction the writers take this one.
One thing that American Horror Story promises to deliver is excitement. The writers do a masterful job combining sex, terror, and mystery. The sex and terror keep the heart racing and holds the attention of the audience while the mystery keeps them coming back for more. No matter how much the show scares viewers away, they are simultaneously forced to persevere and continue watching to find out all the secrets behind each character and subplot. If season one has taught us anything, it's to not underestimate the twist and turns that this show is capable of delivering. Expect to hang on the edge of your seat and to be caught off guard on more than one occasion. This show is perfect for the Halloween season. Tune in Wednesdays at 10pm on FX to avoid missing out.
