While horror movie watching is a year-round event, this is that time of year when all of us can flourish, embracing the weird.
So, come one, come all, beasties unite! It’s Haunt-Tober time!
Midnight Mass is more than a vampire story. It’s a human one. While there have been other fantastical narratives that provoke thought or explore philosophical themes, what sets Midnight Mass apart is its ability to make you almost forget its supernatural elements.
Two pivotal figures that will greatly impact the survival of Crockett Island have recently made their way to the town. The first is Father Paul Hill (played by Hamish Linklater), a new priest who takes the place of the beloved Monsignor Pruitt. The second is Riley Flynn (portrayed by Zach Gilford), the son of locals Ed (Henry Thomas) and Annie (Kristin Lehman). Riley’s return follows his release from prison, where he served time for a tragic accident that occurred while he was driving under the influence and his girlfriend lost her life.
Miracle or Menace?
A multitude of characters add depth to the story, each with their own distinctive motivations and intricately crafted personalities. Among them is Erin Greene (Kate Siegal), Riley’s former flame. Additionally, the town’s sheriff, Hassan (Rahul Kohli), plays a crucial role in the unfolding events.
I am particularly fond of the setting—a small town or island community—as it allows us to intimately acquaint ourselves with each inhabitant. Their motives are meticulously examined, and their relationships, whether positive or negative, are laid bare.
This new addition to their congregation has a secret, and brings with him a mysterious case. It’ll change the townspeople and invite an evil disguised as a gift.
This series grapples with profound questions: What gives life meaning, and how does death intersect with it? Does mortality possess a moral dimension, or is it simply a matter of survival of the fittest? The search for solace lies at the heart of this tale, a quest that resonates deeply.
Fear possesses the power to drive individuals to commit atrocious acts. It has the ability to metamorphose a person, rendering them unrecognizable. When utilized for manipulation, fear becomes an exceedingly dangerous tool. When misguided, particularly when intertwined with religious elements, an individual may succumb to it, even embracing death and murder as unknown allies.
Familial Dysfunction, Religion & Immortality
It’s an unsettling, but beautiful rumination. Midnight Mass has some entrancing scenes, poetic monologues and fantastic performances. Flanagan crafts this with the utmost care, casting light on the human moments while aptly tingling the spine during its darkest. There are some creepy sequences, intriguing questions raised and heartfelt moments that truly hit home.
The casting in Midnight Mass is nothing short of exceptional, featuring many familiar faces from Mike Flanagan‘s previous works. This series weaves a beautiful yet bittersweet symphony, exploring themes of forgiveness, morality, and the unwavering resilience of the human spirit. A resonating tragedy, Midnight Mass is another must see and benefits from multiple viewings.
Streaming on Netflix!
Today’s winner:
Wonderfully Weird & Horrifying 