This week we entered October, the spookiest month. Unlike last year, we have the hope of a semi-normal Halloween, which means it is time to set the mood. “American Horror Story” is one of the scariest running TV shows. Ryan Murphy, writer of “Scream Queens,” “American Crime Story” and “American Horror Story,” has mastered the art of developing an in-depth thriller show. “American Horror Story” is the best way to really set the Halloween scene, but which season is truly the scariest?
“American Horror Story” is inspired by different events in history and spins it into a web of horror with each season having a different story. Currently, at nine seasons, Murphy has used everything from the Salem Witch Trials, the missing colony of Roanoke, a carnival, and even the election of 2016 as inspiration.
9. “Apocalypse” Season eight
“Apocalypse” was one of the most disappointing seasons of AHS. It had an unrealistic scenario mixed with a hard-to-follow plot. This season felt rushed and sloppy. Season eight starts with the end of the world, and the few survivors must overcome the murderous leaders of the safe bunkers and the son of Satan. However, the crossover with the Coven witches was the highlight of the season. They truly saved the day and the season.
8. “Coven” Season three
Though “Coven” is not the most gore-filled season, this was definitely one to watch for the plot. With Sarah Paulson, Emma Robertson and a guest appearance from Stevie Nicks, season three was not one of great horror. The plot really carries this season. Following the empowerment of the female coven, the coven must overcome great obstacles, including those of voodoo magic. Just because it isn’t centered around gore and violence like the others, that doesn’t make it any less fit for Halloween.
7. “Hotel” Season five
“Hotel” was a phenomenal plot filled with the greatest serial killers of history including Charles Manson. The setting of season five is set at the infamous Hotel Cortez, inspired by the Cecil Hotel. Those who die at the hotel are trapped there for all eternity, avoiding all the murderous spirits which plague the hotel. The addition of Lady Gaga, playing the countess, was absolutely captivating. The viewer follows the serial killer spirits’ journey to attempt creating a new protégé. The one aspect I felt was missing was the suspense level. It was suspenseful but not to Murphy’s potential.
6. “Freak Show” Season four
Season four was absolutely terrifying, especially if clowns are your fear. The short appearances from the famous clown, Twisty, are the most horrifying part of this story. The carnival which travels from town to town is bullied by the locals, calling the performers freaks. This pushes them to unspeakable evil. “Freak Show” is one of the highest-rated seasons with very empathetic characters.
5. “Cult” Season seven
This season was unlike any other, while Ryan Murphy redefined what I thought to be horror. Murphy chose to create a crazy plot filled with twists and turns for all 11 episodes, all surrounding Trump vs Hilary Clinton. Murphy picked political extremists as his center point, pointing out all the flaws of our two-party system and incorporating a murderous gang. A great season for those who love looking for deeper meaning than just your average horror movie, while accompanied by brutal and bloody violence
4. “1984” Season nine
Season nine was my personal favorite. This season replicates the great ’80s and ’90s type of horror film, like “Friday the 13th.” “1984” was not filled with all the dramatic twists that “Roanoke” has; however, it is unlike any predictable horror movie. The season follows five campers fleeing from L.A., where the great, murderous Richard Ramirez plagues the city. While it may seem like any other murder story, Ramirez adds a dark, satanic element to the season.
3. “Asylum” Season two
“Asylum” plays on the heartstrings while also making their audiences squirm in their seats. “Asylum” takes place in the ’60s, revealing the torturous methods used on the mentally ill. This thriller season is one that keeps the viewer engaged and constantly asking questions. Season two was one of the best uses of actors so far and definitely checked the boxes for horror and suspense. Many believe “Asylum” to be the best season of “American Horror Story.”
2. “Murder House” Season one
As the series opener, season one did not disappoint. A family moves into an old house, which ends up becoming their own nightmare. The family experiences normal family problems like marital fights and drug abuse, while the dark history of the house slowly starts to present itself. This season felt like an extra long horror movie, the perfect binge season.
1. “Roanoke” Season six
Season six has got it all: gore, suspense, history, and ghost stories. This season was well produced and had unbelievable plot twists. Set up as a documentary, Murphy uses actors to reenact the story of the documentary, while it is narrated by those who “lived” it. Eventually, the producers push the spirits of the lost colony of Roanoke too far and they come for their revenge. With spirits to worry about, no one is even thinking of the cannibalistic, murderous neighbors. This season balances the perfect amount of horror while slowly revealing the history of the colony. It is definitely a must-watch for Halloween.