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Hulu’s new original series, Castle Rock, takes place in the Stephen King’s multiverse, with the setting being the titled Castle Rock, Maine. The show boasts dark and psychological themes as it joins the ranks of the increasingly popular TV horror genre. Stephen King is a horror legend, with numerous best sellers and a reputation for bringing horror into the forefront of the public sphere. His stories have become iconic in today’s society, with his works It and The Shining having become immensely popular as book novels and films. With all the lore and King’s reputation, Castle Rock was bound to be a thrilling ride that all King fans would thoroughly enjoy. But what about those of us who have never cracked a King book or seen any of his multitude of films? Whose most extensive knowledge of Stephen King is that he wrote about a scary clown?
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While having a library of knowledge on Stephen King lore may certainly enhance the viewing experience, it’s not necessary in order to enjoy this strangely delightful show. The plot is completely original and draws on the unsettling essence of King’s writing (and his obsession with Maine). It follows Heney Deaver (Andre Holland), a death row defense attorney, who returns to his hometown of Castle Rock after an incident at Shawshank prison. This sets into motion a series of dark and mysterious occurrences throughout the town. While the show has its fair share of nail-biting “don’t go in there!” moments and exudes a constant ominous tone, it also deals with issues of loss and abuse, while asking the question “what makes a good person do evil things?”
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Don’t, however, walk into this show expecting a clear-cut story where everything is as it seems. There are many scenes throughout the show that will have you scratching your head and wondering if the show writers even know what they’re doing, but this confusion only makes you only more desperate to find out what exactly is wrong with this town. Castle Rock succeeds in keeping you on the edge of your seat wondering, “Where could they possibly go from here?” while also questioning everything you are shown.
Castle Rock is an entertaining show with more to offer than a typical horror movie. And don’t let its connections with the Stephen King multiverse deter you from checking out this show. For old or new fans of horror or suspense, Castle Rock may be just what you are looking for, especially as the Halloween season comes upon us.