American Horror Story: A Success
What are the reasons behind the success of American Horror Story? Well, Brad Falchuk and Ryan Murphy, between them, have been the driving force behind such shows as Nip/Tuck, Popular and Glee. These shows are marked by their distinct differences to one another; the Murphy-Falchuk duo pride themselves on format and content that is versatile and fresh.
The series is successful because of the creepy manner in which it illustrates the perils of the Harmon family. Ben, Vivien and Violet, their daughter, shift from Boston to Los Angeles after Ben's infidelity is revealed and Vivien loses their child. The mansion they move into is occupied by past inhabitants, which causes the Harmons serious trouble. Dylan McDermott and Connie Britton combine brilliantly to demonstrate the strains and troubles of the Harmon's family life and the problems that come with moving into the restored mansion. The series is marked by themes of death, secrecy, entrapment, crisis and hardship, ideas that do much to liven up the grim and chilling - but always engaging - series.
Since late 2011, American Horror Story, one could argue convincingly, has taken the cake for the most engaging American television series. FX should be commended on broadcasting the series; it is a refreshing change from reality TV. The series is a return to the claustrophobia and anxiety we find in other American thriller and/or horror television shows of yesteryear, such as Twin Peaks and American Gothic.
By Chris Traficante