American Horror Story season 8, titled Apocalypse, presents one of the most desolate settings in the entire franchise. Few things are as grim and disheartening as the end of the world. What sets this season apart is its unexpected crossover, featuring characters from Hotel, Murder House, and Coven.
Airing in the fall of 2018, American Horror Story season 8 generated anticipation among fans who eagerly awaited the return of beloved characters, wondering who would come back to unleash chaos once more. With its distinctive storyline and truly horrifying climax, season 8 delivers a haunting experience.
What Is American Horror Story Season 8 About?
American Horror Story season 8 features a crossover with characters from previous seasons of the anthology series. Returning from season 3 are Queenie (Gabourey Sidibe) and Madison Montgomery (Emma Watson), along with Constance Langdon (Jessica Lange), Vivien Harmon (Connie Britton), Violent Harmon (Taissa Farmiga), and Dr. Ben Harmon (Dylan McDermott) from American Horror Story: Murder House.
In the first episode, titled "The End," the world has been destroyed. Two main characters, Emily (Ash Santos) and Timothy Campbell (Kyle Allen), have miraculously survived and are deemed important by a group called The Cooperative. The season's main mystery revolves around their survival. As Emily and Timothy develop a romantic relationship, they discover more about the nuclear winter and must navigate this bleak time with other characters. Outpost 3, established by Wilhemina Venable, serves as their home. Sarah Paulson once again demonstrates her versatility as an actor, portraying a recurring member of the American Horror Story cast.
The main plot of American Horror Story season 8 revolves around the rules and regulations enforced in Outpost 3. The Rubber Man, a character from season 1, reappears and engages in a relationship with Mr. Gallant, who is affiliated with Venable.
In episode 3, "Forbidden Fruit," the storyline takes a wild turn when the witches from season 3 arrive at Outpost 3 to cause trouble. Cordelia Goode, Coco St. Pierre Vanderbilt, Dinah Stevens, and Mallory are resurrected to confront one of the most terrifying villains in the American Horror Story franchise: Michael Langdon. Michael, who is the son of Vivien and ghost Tate Langdon, is the Antichrist capable of initiating the apocalypse.
How Does American Horror Story Season 8 End?
In episode 10 of American Horror Story season 8, titled "Apocalypse Then," the witches from American Horror Story: Coven demonstrate unprecedented power. Mallory emerges as the Supreme Witch following Cordelia's self-sacrifice. While many viewers hail American Horror Story: Asylum as the finest season, season 8 parallels season 2 by featuring a distinct antagonist whom everyone must confront. This element adds a sense of realism despite the chaotic events that unfold.
However, prior to Mallory's ascension, the witches face opposition from Michael and Dinah, who unexpectedly betray them. Madison kills Michael, while Marie Laveau, the voodoo queen, eliminates Dinah. These triumphs fuel the coven's hope of accomplishing their mission. Unfortunately, their confidence is short-lived, as Michael miraculously returns to life and brutally murders Coco, Marie, and Madison. This shocking twist takes the story in an unexpected direction.
In the most powerful scene of American Horror Story season 8, Mallory accomplishes her mission by killing Michael in 2015, preventing him from becoming the Antichrist. This unique twist in Apocalypse sets it apart from other seasons and deserves praise.
Adding a touch of humor to the dark and grim season, American Horror Story fans will remember that Madison ends up in Hell at the end of season 8. The episode concludes with Devan, the son of Emily and Timothy, murdering his nanny in 2020, foreshadowing that trouble is still brewing despite Michael's demise. It becomes apparent that Devan is the next Antichrist.
American Horror Story seasons are known for their abundance of characters and plotlines. While some seasons, such as season 4 set at a circus, are more focused, season 8 is characterized by its wild and chaotic nature. The various timelines in season 8 could have been more carefully constructed. However, for fans who have been following the franchise from the beginning, season 8 is an enjoyable journey.