By Danielle Smith
Staff Writer
Set in modern day Los Angeles, FX’s 5th season of “American Horror Story” is set to be the most visually disturbing, thrilling, and controversial season yet.
“American Horror Story: Hotel” is a psychological thriller that plunges viewers into the world of Hotel Cortez, an extravagant old hotel-turned torture house. The dark secrets that lurk every hallway and behind the doors create an ominous undertone and suspenseful energy.
“Hotel” is an extremely visceral and haunting season with no shortage of gore and provocative scenes. The complex plot is propelled forward by actors that are completely immersed in their roles, resulting in a compelling storyline.
The premiere follows detective John Lowe (Wes Bentley) as he investigates a string of murders, that become more personal with each clue he uncovers while simultaneously exploring the endless secrets hidden in Hotel Cortez.
“American Horror Story” is known for reusing the same casts as drastically different characters each season, and “Hotel” is no exception. Many new actors, including the star, Lady Gaga, are introduced this season as well, bringing an essential diversity to the show.
Lady Gaga is depicted as a murderer with stylish ways to torture her victims while carrying herself in a righteous manner. She glides through scenes without speaking, like a star in silent horror film. The chilling impact of her slithery, seductive poise creates a stunningly evil and complex character.
Each season of “American Horror Story” is a work of art, with impeccable production design. The exceptional set causes Hotel Cortez to come to life on screen and the intricate detail executed in each costume and makeup design makes this world seem almost real to the viewer.
The outstanding cinematography features a variety of unique camera angles, grabbing the viewer’s attention. Suspense is created by many situations of visual irony where viewers see things that characters fail to notice such as stalkers. Many scenes are shot using moving cameras that glide above characters’ heads, offering an expansive view of the set.
Although the visual aspect of “American Horror Story: Hotel” is exquisite, the show falls short in plot. Moments of outrageous unrealism reduce the suspension of disbelief, such as when a detective leaves an unattended child at a crime scene.
Frequent flashbacks also cause confusion for the viewer about the correct chronological order of events. Although the abundance of flashbacks provides background information necessary to develop certain characters, the arrangement is distracting and clutters the overall story.
“American Horror Story: Hotel” features a fantastical sound track that is used strategically to build suspense, and in moments of complete silence, increase anxiety and tension. The music is eerie and sinister from the very first scene throughout the whole episode, contextualizing seemingly ordinary scenes as haunted settings.
The sophisticated plot of “American Horror Story: Hotel” highlights a dynamic variety of haunting scenes. With a plethora of well developed characters, the unsettling nature of the show becomes apparent through outstanding visual effects and a theatrical soundtrack.
New episodes of “American Horror Story: Hotel” air every Wednesday on FX at 10p.m. and it is rated TV-MA
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