Warning: spoilers for various seasons of American Horror Story.
Ranking the Most Terrifying Episodes of American Horror Story
American Horror Story has carved its niche in the horror genre, delivering a haunting array of chills and unsettling narratives over its twelve seasons. Created by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, the series, which debuted in 2011 on FX, captures viewers with its innovative anthology format. As of now, anticipation builds for the upcoming 13th season, although the central theme remains under wraps. With a blend of fictional horror intertwined with real societal issues, AHS successfully taps into various fears, with some episodes taking dread to new heights.
10. “Camp Redwood” – American Horror Story: 1984
American Horror Story: 1984, Episode 1
The ninth season, set in 1984, unveils the chilling backstory of Camp Redwood, a summer retreat with a dark history marked by a massacre years prior. In the episode aptly named “Camp Redwood,” viewers are thrust back to that horrific event, setting a grim tone as the camp seeks to revitalize its image. The episode crescendos with the gripping fear of serial killers stalking camp counselors, leaving a profound impression of vulnerability and terror.
9. “Test of Strength” – American Horror Story: Freak Show
American Horror Story: Freak Show, Episode 7
Transitioning to the fourth season known as Freak Show, “Test of Strength” illustrates a dark and emotional arc involving Dell, the show’s strongman. This episode reveals Dell’s scheming with the unscrupulous Stanley, leading to a moment of profound tragedy as he brutally kills Ma Petite, one of the most beloved characters. This act, executed under deceitful pretenses, underscores the depths of human depravity in pursuit of selfish desires.
8. “Bitchcraft” – American Horror Story: Coven
American Horror Story: Coven, Episode 1
Coven takes a sinister dive into witchcraft and racial horrors. Opening with a flashback to Delphine LaLaurie’s gruesome practices, “Bitchcraft” showcases not only her chilling legacy but also introduces contemporary horrors faced by Madison, who is attacked at a party. The blurring of historical and modern cruelty amplifies the chilling impact of this episode, making the real-life narrative of LaLaurie all the more harrowing.
7. “Checking In” – American Horror Story: Hotel
American Horror Story: Hotel, Episode 1
The Hotel Cortez, with its myriad of secrets, serves as the backdrop for season five. The opening episode introduces dark forces both supernatural and psychological. Gabriel’s shocking death at the hands of the Addiction Demon, juxtaposed with the Countess’s repulsive actions, establishes a grotesque tone that resonates throughout the season, demonstrating the hotel’s corrupting influence.
6. “Monsters Among Us” – American Horror Story: Freak Show
American Horror Story: Freak Show, Episode 1
The inaugural episode of Freak Show not only introduces the quirky characters but also sets a horrifying tone with the introduction of Twisty the Clown, a true embodiment of terror. His gruesome methods, paired with Dandy Mott’s psychologically disturbing behavior, elevate the horror from the comical to the deeply unsettling as a reflection of the true nature of fright.
5. “Holes” – American Horror Story: Cult
American Horror Story: Cult, Episode 5
In the seventh season, Cult invokes real-world fears without supernatural elements. “Holes” unearths the brutal reality of human betrayal within a cult setting. The chilling scene where members turn against RJ yields a disturbing reflection on loyalty and violence, emphasizing the horror of human darkness in a tightly-knit group.
4. “I Am Anne Frank (Part 2)”- American Horror Story: Asylum
American Horror Story: Asylum, Episode 5
Season two, Asylum, is critically acclaimed for a reason. It navigates through the depths of an asylum in the 1960s and touches on the sinister Bloody Face killer narrative. In “I Am Anne Frank (Part 2),”viewers witness the chilling psychological manipulations from Dr. Thredson while exploring themes of trauma and identity, enhancing the episode’s horrifying essence far beyond mere visual frights.
3. “Requiem 1981/1987 Part Two”- American Horror Story: NYC
American Horror Story: NYC, Episode 10
In its haunting 11th season titled NYC, AHS poignantly addresses the AIDS epidemic. The season finale reveals the personal and collective tragedies intertwined with the crisis. “Requiem 1981/1987 Part Two”conveys deep emotional weight as the lifelong impacts of love, loss, and lingering fear come to fruition, showcasing horror in the rawest form, making it an unforgettable viewing experience.
2. “Piggy Piggy” – American Horror Story: Murder House
American Horror Story: Murder House, Episode 6
1. “The Coat Hanger” – American Horror Story: Asylum
American Horror Story: Asylum, Episode 9
Undoubtedly the most harrowing episode, “The Coat Hanger,” from Asylum presents an intense intersection of trauma and the politics of reproductive rights. Lana’s desperate attempt to terminate her pregnancy through excruciating means forms a visceral depiction of angst and anguish. Coupled with themes of sexual violence and institutional betrayal, it resembles horror that speaks to both personal and social crises.
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