"The humble TV show is a difficult medium to make horror stories work in, but several series have managed to ascend the ranks of the genre. While countless incredible horror films have endlessly proven the potential of the horror story in movie format, the many constraints of network television have made the success of creative horror TV series far less common. That being said, there are a number of standout horror shows that have stood the test of time as genre-defining works of art.

The best horror shows take advantage of long-form storytelling to cast their protagonists deeper and deeper into despair over the course of a thoughtful story that puts character above all else. Conversely, TV is particularly suited to anthology stories when it comes to horror, with the episodic format of a series being the perfect platform to put forth a wide breadth of uniquely terrifying premises. In either case, it’s become clear that a macabre fascination with scary stories has infiltrated both networks and streaming…"

  • Drusas@fedia.io
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    2 months ago

    Midnight Mass deserves a place on this list. It’s better than a number of shows they chose.

    • Black Dog@feddit.ukOP
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      2 months ago

      I watched both seasons last year and really got into it. Can’t wait for the next season - I think it’s out later this month?

    • Subtracty@lemmy.world
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      2 months ago

      I just watched the first 2 episodes after you mentioned it. I have no idea why I haven’t seen any advertising for it, but this show is awesome. Thanks!

      • TheCelticPirate@lemmy.world
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        2 months ago

        The lack of advertising makes me scared they might cancel it before the writers can finish the story. Spread the word please! I gotta see the end!

  • Subtracty@lemmy.world
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    2 months ago

    I’m happy to see Mike Flanigan’s Hill House make the list. I absolutely loved that season of television, but not many people I know have seen it. His other shows have been great, too. Highly recommend them to anyone who wants something that starts off traditionally spooky and then transforms into something emotionally resonant. It’s definitely a higher caliber of show than American Horror Story.

    • Black Dog@feddit.ukOP
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      2 months ago

      Totally loved Hill House. Spookiest thing I’d seen in years.

      Loved Midnight Mass too.