Set in the beloved city of New York, American Horror Story season 11 takes viewers on a thrilling journey unlike any other. With an impressive cast including Zachary Quinto, Issac Powell, Joe Mantello, Billie Lord, and Russell Tovey, this season explores a new level of intensity.
Airing in October and November 2022, season 11 of American Horror Story brings a fresh tone compared to its predecessors. While still rooted in horror, a genre adored by fans, this season delves into deeper and more thought-provoking themes.
What Is American Horror Story Season 11 About?
American Horror Story season 11 is based in New York City during the 1980s, focusing on a series of murders targeting gay men. The main characters are determined to uncover the identity of the serial killer. In the premiere episode, titled "Something's Coming," two main storylines are introduced: the hunt for the killer and the emergence of a virus on Fire Island. Similar to American Horror Story: Hotel, season 11 draws inspiration from real-life events. The decision to tackle the HIV/AIDS epidemic in this season creates a somber tone throughout the episodes. Although the characters are fictional, their individual story arcs serve as a poignant reminder of the devastating real-life impact of the AIDS epidemic.
Two new characters, Patrick Read (played by Tovey) and Gino Barelli (played by Mantello), are introduced. Read is a closeted detective, while Gino works as a journalist for the New York Native newspaper. After a night at a bar, Gino is given drugs and abducted. Meanwhile, viewers are introduced to Adam Carpenter, who finds himself being stalked by a man named Big Daddy (portrayed by Matthew William Bishop). Despite being told by Theo (played by Issac Powell) that Big Daddy is no longer alive, Adam remains understandably fearful. Big Daddy serves as a terrifying antagonist in American Horror Story, symbolizing the virus that is infecting individuals in New York City.
The remainder of Season 11 of American Horror Story centers around the individuals who have fallen victim to the serial killer, while everyone endeavours to uncover the killer's true identity. Episode 4, titled "Black Out," stands out as particularly memorable due to Gino and Adam's relentless pursuit of the truth amidst a chaotic power outage. In episode 7, "The Sentinel," Patrick and Gino venture to Whitely's apartment (portrayed by Jeff Hiller) and make the shocking realization that he is the killer, known as The Mai Tai Killer throughout Season 11 of American Horror Story. Episode 8, "Fire Island," presents a chilling and heart-wrenching storyline, as Big Daddy sets out to eliminate Adam and Gino, while Patrick strives to intervene and stop Big Daddy in his tracks.
How Does American Horror Story Season 11 End?
The two-part finale of American Horror Story season 11 is a chilling and emotionally charged conclusion. This season takes a darker, more serious tone compared to its predecessors, with clear parallels to the infamous Dahmer case. There are numerous distressing scenes that grip the viewer's senses. In "Requiem 1981/1987 Part One," the characters gather for the funeral of Theo in 1981, where Sam experiences perplexing hallucinations. Sam (played by Zachary Quinto) removes Big Daddy's mask, perceiving him as far more benevolent than his eerie appearance suggests. Moreover, Sam receives a message from Theo, disguised as a doctor, revealing his impending demise due to pneumonia.
The story takes a leap a few years ahead to 1987, where Gino becomes the caretaker for Patrick, who is severely ill and on the brink of losing his eyesight. As the viewers witness glimpses of Patrick's personal and professional life, he eventually passes away. Patrick's demise is considered one of the most heart-wrenching deaths in American Horror Story, as he had deeply connected with the audience.
In "Requiem 1981/1987 Part Two," the narrative oscillates between two timelines, 1981 and 1987. In 1981, Adam discovers the devastating news that Hannah (Billie Lourd) has succumbed to the virus. It is revealed that sharing intimacy with an infected person leads to the transmission of the virus, which is how Hannah fell ill, as Adam had been the carrier. This heart-rending moment marks a pivotal point in the entire season. Returning to 1987, Gino becomes infected with the virus but miraculously manages to survive until 1991. The audience witnesses a montage where Big Daddy spreads the virus among gay men, while Gino maintains his distance. The funeral for Gino is shown, and Adam delivers a sorrowful eulogy, leaving viewers saddened by the loss.
American Horror Story season 11 combines an emotional underpinning with genuine scares and thrilling moments. In the realm of horror, there are various films akin to AHS season 11, sharing similar themes or set in the 1980s. However, amidst previous seasons that incorporated campy elements, season 11 of American Horror Story distinguishes itself by delivering a compelling and significant narrative.