Now that the twist has been revealed for this season of American Horror Story: Roanoke, things are completely turning into something new. The potential to change things this drastically has so much potential to make Roanoke stand out even more, so let’s take a look at this week’s episode, “Chapter 6.”
The episode opens with an in-universe explanation that My Roanoke Nightmare was a ratings success story for its undisclosed network, and, because of this, the network asked the producer, Sid (played by Cheyenne Jackson), to create a follow-up. For his follow-up, he’s decided to create a true reality show in which he films absolutely everything, and he wants it to be a return to Roanoke. This time, he’ll have the actual people who lived in the house (the real Matt and Shelby) and the actors that played Matt and Shelby (Sarah Paulson and Cuba Gooding, Jr.) return during a blood moon and be filmed for three days by hidden cameras. The network is extremely skeptical, but they agree to the series after a bit of convincing. The problem, though, is that Shelby is completely against the idea, and we find out that she and Matt separated after the series. However, the idea that getting back in the house with Matt could lead to a reconciliation is too much to turn down, so she reluctantly agrees.
The house is set up with cameras, and Shelby, Matt, Dominic (the actor who played Matt), and Audrey(the actress who played Shelby, who HAS A BRITISH ACCENT; this is so good, guys), among others, are confirmed to return. During the setup process for the series, we’re introduced to the “real” actors and actresses from My Roanoke Nightmare, and it’s such an interesting concept for the show. This really is such a huge twist for American Horror Story, and, just as Ryan Murphy said, we are watching something completely different now from what we thought we were seeing. One of the most interesting reveals is that of Kathy Bates’ Agnes (the actress who played The Butcher) being committed to a psychiatric institute, giving the implication that the role did more to her than anticipated. Early on, we see that there’s more truth to My Roanoke Nightmare than even the producers thought, and it’s such an exciting development that is incredible to watch play out. Another interesting aspect of Return to Roanoke (the sequel series) is the knowledge that Lee was never charged with the murder of her husband, and Sidney wants to find the proof through the show. All of the little pieces from the series coming together in this way is something that is difficult to talk about because of how strong of a development it is. Good job, Ryan Murphy.
With this being the first week of the twist, I don’t want to talk too much about spoilers. What I will say, though, is that it kind of blows my mind how well this is working on the show. American Horror Story gets extremely stale at times (even to its fans, like me), and the middle of each season is usually the weakest. Because of Roanoke‘s nature, though, we’re getting some quality material that may be able to make this the best season yet. If nothing else, this is easily the most original season of American Horror Story so far, and I absolutely can’t wait to see where Roanoke goes from here.
What did you think about this week’s episode of American Horror Story: Roanoke? Are you a fan of the twist? Let us know your thoughts in the comments down below!
[Photo Credit: FX]
Visitor Rating: 5 Stars