‘American Horror Story: 1984’ takes place 37 years before the previous season, “Apocalypse.” The first half of the season focuses on the reopening of Camp Redwood, a camp which had been closed 14 years prior due to a massacre of the campers. 

The series starts off with all the good elements of an 80’s slasher film, such as an urban legend murderer, and a summer camp where a massacre took place. It would not be possible to make the series more cliche heavy. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but it makes the first episode extremely boring and predictable.

The first episodes are a little stale, as they are so cliche reliant. As you are watching them, it’s easy to forget exactly which series you are watching due to the amount of films and shows that have done similarly themed projects.

As the series progresses, the intricate backstory of each character is explained, revealing the characters motivations and creating a sense of intrigue. Additionally, ‘American Horror Story: 1984’ begins to create plot twists that make the series less predictable, and revitalize the the 80’s slasher film genre.

However, the unfortunate downside of all the exposition is the extremely high amount of flashbacks. The nonlinear storytelling, combined with the complicated lore of the “American Horror Story” universe makes it hard for a casual viewer to get immersed in the show.

For hardcore fans of the “American Horror Story” franchise, “American Horror Story: 1984” successfully expands on the original franchise in new and unique ways, which is impressive considering the show has been on television for almost a decade.

Additionally, the first half of ‘American Horror Story: 1984’ successfully rejuvenates the slasher film genre. The series is rewarding for both casual and die-hard fans of the series, although a new viewer will have a harder time investing themselves in the lore of the franchise.

‘American Horror Story: 1984’: ★★★★☆