"American Horror Story's 11th Season: Is 'Delicate' a Thrilling Comeback?"

© 2023, FX Networks. All rights reserved


Season 11 of American Horror Story has been released, and this season is titled "Delicate," drawing inspiration from the novel "Delicate Condition" by Danielle Valentine, which was published in August 2023. The series was created for television by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk.


In this season, Emma Roberts stars as Anna Alcott, a rising starlet navigating the tumultuous world of teen dramas, poised for a breakthrough during award season with a new hit movie. She and her husband, Dexter, portrayed by Matt Czuchry, are undergoing IVF treatments to start a family. However, their journey takes a bizarre turn as they encounter haunted antiques and experience unsettling dreams.

© 2023, FX Networks. All rights reserved

Anna's best friend and PR agent, portrayed by Kim Kardashian, attempts to keep her composed. Yet, the plot deepens when mysteries from Dexter's past come to light.

© 2023, FX Networks. All rights reserved


American Horror Story is under scrutiny for its potential return to its roots of innovative storytelling, exemplified by seasons like "Murder House," "Asylum," and "Freak Show." Notably, season nine, "1984," received mixed reviews and lower ratings, leaving some fans disappointed. "Murder House" received an impressive 88% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, while "Asylum" earned a remarkable 84%. Despite some division, "Freak Show" maintained a strong viewership, showcasing the show's ability to push boundaries and engage its audience. This season's anticipation stems from the hope for a resurgence of the series' earlier success.


One noteworthy aspect of this season is Kim Kardashian's presence and her own celebrity. However, in a series known for recycling its cast, introducing fresh talent might have been refreshing. While Emma Roberts' return is welcome, casting someone closer to her age would have been more suitable. Kardashian, at forty-two, and Roberts, at thirty-two, have significant age differences. Actresses like Jurnee Smollett or Nicole Beharie, who have excelled in the horror genre without appearing rigid, could have brought a fresh perspective. Time will reveal if Kardashian's inclusion serves as a gimmick to attract a broader audience.


Initial impressions after the first episode are somewhat reserved. First episodes face the challenge of introducing inciting incidents and building suspense without revealing too much of the plot. The jump scares in this episode may feel forced, especially since we have yet to connect with the characters. It might have been more beneficial to establish Anna's desire for a child amid her rising stardom before delving into her IVF treatments. Additionally, in the year 2023, encountering nurses in red robes at a medical facility should raise more suspicion. The direction could have done more to convey whether these unusual events are happening in Anna's mind or why she perceives them as normal, providing a basis for her reactions. Dexter's character appears shady, but their relationship remains unexplored, leaving questions about why Anna ignored red flags for so long. "Rosemary's Baby" effectively portrayed the husband's transformation from an average suburbanite to a big-city sleazeball, offering insight into their relationship.


This season heavily draws inspiration from the "Rosemary's Baby" concept, a choice that may seem belated due to recent films exploring horrific pregnancies and childbirth. Recent years have seen a surge in horror and thriller movies tackling the fears and anxieties related to motherhood and the supernatural, with films like "Hereditary," "A Quiet Place," and "The Babadook" delving into these themes. The resonance of these themes with audiences has made it a compelling subject in the horror genre.


The idea of a woman's body and pregnancy being manipulated by sinister forces taps into fears related to loss of control, bodily autonomy, and the unknown. "Rosemary's Baby," a classic in this subgenre, expertly blended psychological horror with the supernatural. It's not surprising that "American Horror Story" would want to explore this theme given its penchant for pushing boundaries and tapping into cultural fears.


While the concept is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, "American Horror Story" must bring its unique twist to stand out. As of now, I remain on the fence until after episode 3. We shall see how this season unfolds.

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