Guillermo Del Toro's Cabinet of Curiosities Is Half Terrible

[@ILoveMarsBars]

I'm so glad you gave the "Dreams in the Witch House" the hate it deserved, and thought of it as the worst episode in the anthology. The original Dreams in the Witch House story is my absolute favourite Lovecraft story ever. I couldn't stop thinking about it when I first read it. It's honestly kind of impressive how they can take such unique and interesting source material and turn it into something this atrocious. That had to be one of the worst adaptations of a piece of writing in the history of adaptations. There were SO many amazing visuals they could have worked with while keeping the apartment plain with weird geometry to indicate something was off. We could have seen the world of the Elder Things. We could have seen the moving dimension shifting polyhedrals or the weird baby scene. The eerie purple light that is so iconic of the witch. We could have seen Gilman think he was dreaming only to realize he's not when he sees little hints like the statue of the Elder Thing he broke off. The set design of the episode was horrendous like they put it so in your nose!!! Also the twin thing to change dimensions on the wall? ATROCIOUS. SO. MUCH. POTENTIAL. WASTED. And it was just all flushed down the drain for what? Some boring comical plot that we've seen a million times over. Sorry about the rant but I was so looking forward to some genuine Lovecraftian horror as the Dreams in the Witch House is considered one of his scariest stories and my heart is just so broken after this. I really hope we get an adaptation of the story that does it justice. A Lovecraft anthology would be so amazing.

[@failureoncommand]

Nah, rant your heart out, you're speaking my mind! I'm really glad someone finally commented on this. There were so many fascinating elements in the story and it was really all wasted here. All you said made me realize how much worse it is than I even thought. All these Lovecraftian elements you mentioned... Honestly, a damn shame. I'm frankly sad I read the story after seeing the episode, because I didn't get to walk into it and experience it in all its glory without any prior notions. I still loved it, but I wished I could have seen it in its pure form without having to have experienced this atrocity beforehand. A whole Lovecraft anthology would be awesome...

[@frey8725]

I'm also a huge Lovecraft fan. Every since I was 14 in '84 and I agree that they screwed up, big time. Dreams in the Witch House wasn't my least favorite (episode 7 was), but it was bad. I actually disliked Pickman's Model more. That was even more different. Granted, there's not as much to work with, but it still could have been done, creatively as opposed to completely rewriting it with a different plot.... Much like they did with Dreams in the Witch House. I thought the first 3 episodes were best and very Lovecraftian in feel.

[@failureoncommand]

It seemed like the more they tried to deviate and expand, the worse the end product. It's just sad, to me, that they had 2 shots at adapting a Lovecraft story and they managed to bungle both up.

[@frey8725]

@@failureoncommand IKR? I've only seen two adaptations that were actually good. The Lovecaft Society's The Call of Cthulhu done in the old black and white silent film style and Dagon, which was actually an adaptation of Shadow Over Innsmouth. That was moved to Spain instead of New England, but the imagery and acting were spot-on. I do love The Lurking Fear adaptation and Re-Animater as guilty pleasures. lol But I was so looking forward to these two episodes because Guillermo del Toro had his name on the series. I thought, as stand-alone stories (not Lovecraft adaptations) they were okay. I thought they were visually impressive and well-acted and the stories weren't terrible. I was just expecting something completely different. It was like I was going to watch A New Hope and instead they played Star Trek VI The Undiscovered Country. I like both movies, but it's not what was advertised.

[@failureoncommand]

@@frey8725 Yeah, I totally get you. But honestly, to me at least, even as standalone media, I felt like they were sorely lacking. Visuals and acting are indeed good, but given the Netflix budget, it would be ridiculous if they weren't. But the stories they told and the way they flowed... I don't know, it just felt like an incredibly cheap horror story in extra fancy looking clothes and under a big name. I'm gonna make sure to check out those adaptations, though. You make em sound sweet.

[@carlossaraiva8213]

Can we all agree how good F. Murray Abrams was in The Autopsy? There is a reason this man won an oscar for Amadeus.

[@fightvale57]

That's the only one I liked.Nice lil compact story,the writing was fine, though I figured the turn in folly a bit early and to see Abrams. I'd watch h say anything.

[@TheAshMcG]

I loved his performance in both films.

[@Lifesizemortal]

and Grand Budapest Hotel!

[@carlossaraiva8213]

@@Lifesizemortal Yes, absolutly. He killed in that movie. He had a relatively short screentime but he was absolutly great in each minute of screentime.

[@Floridaburg-]

Bro…he killed Moe Zart

[@anthonyt1t5]

What's cool about the sheriff is that he's humble enough to listen to those hunter guys about the best lookout spot. It's a small thing but it's enough to let audiences know that the sheriff is a good and kind man who doesn't let his position or ego get the better of him. I can't tell you how many petty bosses I've come across who are just insecure man children.

[@OpeningsOpenings]

The actor portraying him was amazing too. He and F. Murray were a master class in acting - the way they worked off each other so naturally. It felt so authentic, their connection

[@boink8653]

Dreams in the witch house was a joke. The story itself is a masterpiece. To make it worse, all I could see was Ron and Ginny.

[@failureoncommand]

Agreed.

[@tazandalsoalastname]

The first episode of this show honestly felt like a Dhar Mann KZbin video 😂

[@failureoncommand]

Lol I can't help but agree

[@tazandalsoalastname]

@@failureoncommand I just found your channel and it's great, busy bingeing all of your videos now 😁 Instant sub

[@failureoncommand]

@@tazandalsoalastname Thank you so much! Really warms my heart to hear people say things like that. I hope you enjoy the videos, now and in the future!

[@Stand_By_For_Mind_Control]

Well the half that isn't terrible certainly makes me want a 2nd season a LOT. I don't expect any anthology to get everything right. VHS always has 1 or 2 great offerings and 1 or 2 terrible ones, but I love the franchise overall because I wouldn't want to miss the hits.

[@rociomiranda5684]

The main character in Lot 36 was very interesting to me (I am neither white nor American, BTW). There were hints of an interesting backstory since he'd seen military action and lost his hearing partially. The actor was very good. I thought the man was bitter and resentful because he felt powerless. However, the rest of the episode had nothing to do with his experience and feelings, the horror was paltry and conventional, the Satanic subplot ridiculous, and the character of Elpidia Carillo totally unnecessary. I like unsympathetic protagonists because they have so much potential to be interesting and have an intriguing arc. It's a shame this was not the case. Pickman's Model was so bad (I am a fan of the short story) that I prefer the old Night Gallery version with Bradford Dillman and a guy in a giant rat creature suit.

[@failureoncommand]

Yeah, now that you mention it, there were several interesting factors in Nick's character that could have made for interesting exploration. Can't deny that the actor did do a good job as well. Totally agree for everything else you said. I feel like what detracted from the potential of this "unsympathetic protagonist" arc was the directness of it all. What's the point of having a grey character, if at the end all you're going to do is tell a black and white story? And with the ending of this one, I thought it was TOO black and white. Pickman's Model was indeed a mess, especially when compared to the short story. The story was really intriguing. I'd actually never heard of the Night Gallery! Just researched it now when I read your comment. Seems interesting, though. Would you recommend it as an anthology overall? Thanks for sharing, by the way. I really enjoyed reading your thoughts on the series!

[@johnnythedark3090]

Oh c'mon the autopsy was incredible. The rats were funny and the picture was creepy. The one about rich guy and alien egg was great too.

[@failureoncommand]

Glad you liked so many of the episodes!

[@divineonome2827]

Epidode 7 was a pure masterpiece ✨

[@OpeningsOpenings]

Agree with these. I actually was so creeped out by the paintings one that I could not watch certain parts. Maybe it gets to me more because I am a visual artist and the relationship I feel with my work - as if they are alive… This episode is my worst nightmare

[@erikramaekers63]

The Autopsy is terrific.

[@failureoncommand]

Sure is!

[@coraltorres1334]

I'm so glad The Viewing is getting some appreciation. After browsing through some reddit threads on it, I saw tons of people calling it boring. I on the other hand LOVED it, the music, the atmosphere, the cinematography, it was just amazing. Made me wish I could be in that giant living room.

[@failureoncommand]

Sameeeeee. I'd frankly barely seen any other reviews of the series so far, and was thus surprised when some of the comments on this very video bashed it. I really thought it was a masterpiece. Made me feel bad for hating Panos Cosmatos's movie, Mandy. But I guess that says something about opinions and how they grow and mature.

[@carlossaraiva8213]

I pity the fools who cant appreciate the cinematic jewels that Panos Cosmatos has bestowed upon us poor sinners. His two movies and this TV episode are cinematic fire. I cant wait for next year when he releases his next movie.

[@carlossaraiva8213]

@@failureoncommand have you watched Panos Cosmatos' first film "Beyond The Black Rainbow"? I think if you gave Mandy a second watch you might enjoy it more. Excuse me if i sound too presumptious to say so but you strike me as the kind of person who is unaffraid to change your mind on something on second viewing, if i may be so bold to say so.

[@failureoncommand]

@Carlos Saraiva Seems we're having a multi-comment spanning conversation lol I have not seen Beyond The Black Rainbow, no. I would like to, though. And no, friend, speak your mind. I'm frankly flattered. You're right about that. The more I watch, the more I learn and grow, you know? Sometimes you can't appreciate something until you've matured enough to understand it. The more I grow, the more I see within a film and the more I can understand and appreciate. Definitely need to give Mandy a second watch, right after Beyond the Black Rainbow, perhaps.

[@carlossaraiva8213]

@@failureoncommand i'd love to know your opinion about Beyond The Black Rainbow. I like the way you think and analyse. I dont need to ahgee with everything you think and say, that would be boring, but i enjoy your though process. You strike me as a curious mind eager to know more. I'm going to subscribe to your channel. Keep up the good work, friend. Greetings from Portugal.

[@MagicAccent]

The autopsy was scary good to say the least. But I think you're being a bit harsh over all (apart from the Witch House episode which was needlessly tampered with from its original form ). For my part I think the Rats in the Graveyard deserves some more credit. It blended atmosphere, horror and humor very nicely. The story was simple and to the point with an expected and fitting outcome. The Mexican standoff in the tunnel with his two nemeses, with both represented an aspect of his own character, was definitely a highlight. Masson was both hilarious and pitiable and perfectly over the top. My second most enjoyed episode.

[@failureoncommand]

The autopsy was great. I may be a bit harsh overall, but I feel I am usually selective with what I watch, particularly with horror since it's not really my preferred genre. Graveyard Rats had its charms, don't get me wrong. But I guess, at the end of the day, I don't like things that are THAT "to the point" or in your face. I'm glad you enjoyed it, though. Many of my close friends did as well, so I understand.

[@FrancoCarlesimoArt]

I am glad this show made you read Lovecraft, Pickman's Model is one of my favorites of his stories. Good analysis of the show and without spoilers. Cheers!

[@failureoncommand]

Thank you so much! I'm really glad you enjoyed this one lol I'd dabbled in Lovecraft before, but yeah, I'm really glad this show spurred me to dive into more. It's always a mind-bending joy... Pickman's Model was phenomenal. Thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@hassledvania]

"How is it?" "WELL IT AINT HALF GOOD"

[@failureoncommand]

Accurate lol

[@Fatpie42]

Is Lot 36 about racism? Yes the protagonist is racist, but his greed is the bigger focus. He's a guy who has been through a lot and has got himself into a rut and has been left unsympathetic to others as a result. Graveyard Rats was so much fun. Not sure what your issue was there. Yes, The Autopsy was great. I felt The Outside finale didn't work. I loved the character but in end she simply gets what she wants. Pickman's Model was the first one I watched and I found it brilliant. Trying to make a painting seem horrifying and corrupting is really tough and a film Devil's Honey completely failed to do that same thing. I liked a lot of elements of Dreams In The Witch house, but the rat with a human face was really dumb and ruined it for me. I haven't read the story though. The Viewing is clearly the worst one. So much boring waffle only for a completely unconnected finale that pays off none of it. Very pretty but not entertaining. I guess you found the characters more interesting than I did. They seemed like boring stereotypes to me. The Murmuring is very good in many ways, but my goodness is it depressing. I liked it, but it's not one I preferred. Ranking 1. The Autopsy 2. Graveyard Rats 3. Pickman's Model 4. Lot 36 5. The Murmuring 6. The Outside 7. Dreams In The Witch House 8. The Viewing Absolutely agree that only half were good. I just didn't always agree which were good.

[@GhostsofJeremiah]

In lot 36 did they ever explain why the original owner of the lot would hop in front of it?

[@failureoncommand]

Nope, they did not. They barely explained anything. The way I understood it was that the owner was killing rabbits in his own home and giving them up as sacrifices to maintain the demon, and that the hop before entering was meant to somewhat signify his peaceful intent for entry.

[@GhostsofJeremiah]

@@failureoncommand ok that’s what I thought as well. Thought it was a way to announce his presence to Dottie.

[@estebanespinola8033]

Its a form of warm up exercises, bc he need to jump in order not to break the circle (like the protagonist did)

[@failureoncommand]

@@estebanespinola8033 oh, damn. That's actually pretty smart.

[@carlossaraiva8213]

No. That's sort of a joke in the episode.

[@studogable]

Interesting that you had such a positive view of The Viewing. My mates and I were unanimous in declaring it the worst of the bunch. It's a tired idea, with many opportunities wasted, and it ultimately means nothing. The Murmuring, on the other hand, was a great piece of work. Ghost story as healing experience. Familiar in setting, unique in execution. I'm glad you agreed.

[@failureoncommand]

Glad you think so as far as The Murmuring! As for The Viewing, It's different tastes at the end of the day, but I see where you're coming from. It's definitely not for everyone.

[@schmebulockjizz]

Care to explain how exactly the opportunitirs were wasted in the viewing?

[@studogable]

@@schmebulockjizz we see no music from the musician. We hear nothing creative from the author. All we get from the scientist is a litany of slapdowns from Weller. But damn if they don't take their time ruminating on how good the weed, blow, and booze are.

[@MessrDookie101]

Agreed. The episode devolves into schlock and felt like a stylized stoner horror comedy. To find out that all he wanted to do was show them a demon rock that he had no idea about was an underwhelming reveal considering all the mystique-laden buildup. That episode is best when it isn't showing us the explicit. The Gaddafi bit was inspired as fuck though.

[@franktroise4386]

I was so excited when I heard they were doing Pickmans Model and Dreams in the Witch House. Then I watched them both and was terribly disappointed.

[@failureoncommand]

Yeah. Lovecraft deserves better

[@jl.7739]

Hey Hollywood: give panos cosmatos a nice budget to make more movies will ya?

[@Javachacin]

Great video, love hearing everyone's opinions on these episodes. Overall I agree with you, though I did have a fun time with Graveyard Rats - specifically the lead actor's performance was excellent, I think it was holding the whole thing together for me. And though I totally appreciated the production elements of (all of them really) The Outside, and the performances were Amazing (spoiler) - the scene when she kills her husband was so well crafted, in writing, acting, etc. amazing - I couldn't get over the lack of originality in the story. Also I found all the episodes, except The Autopsy (the only one I can really say was working as a complete piece) and The Viewing to REALLY drag. I was assuming these were all an hour, or a little bit more in running time, but when I looked afterwards I was shocked some were 35-45 minutes long. The stories/scripts on most of these were just subpar. I did enjoy them well enough to want another season though, just hope they pay attention to the scripts going forward.

[@failureoncommand]

Thanks, man. Glad you enjoyed! I understand where you're coming from with Rats, but I guess the melodrama in the script and performance just didn't rub ME the right way, though I can totally see why others may enjoy it instead. As for The Outside, that's fair; at least you still admired the execution. I can also relate with the drag, which I felt as well, but mostly with the episodes I disliked and maybe a teensy bit with The Murmuring. Here's to better scripts moving forward. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@NahuelPavano]

I loved the introductions by guillermo. Very atmospheric. I agree in general with the scores and review. My only complain is about the title of your video, a little bit harsh. But considering what you said in the outro, you apreciate this much needed different content. Sorry for the mispellings, greetings from argentina! PS: I hope you succeed with the channel, very good quality!

[@failureoncommand]

Thank you so much! I truly appreciate it, man! You're definitely right about the video title, that's on me. I was trying to get some attention on the video, and sometimes negativity helps with that. Either way, thank you so much for commenting, and for the well wishes!

[@stephenwalker2924]

Great summary. You have one of the sweetest, mellowest voices on KZbin. Like acoustic molasses, aural sugar syrup. (I am so straight) 😂

[@failureoncommand]

Damn, man, thank you so much. This is one of the sweetest things anyone has ever said to me on here, if not the sweetest. You sure know how to make a man blush lol

[@Enriqueguiones]

Episode 6 is an insult to Lovecraft. What's the point to adapt "Dreams at the Witch House" and NOT adapt it AT ALL???

[@failureoncommand]

Exactly...

[@charlene5461]

Glad to hear Rupert Grints acting was great in his roll! Big Rupert fan and hope, if he wishes, gets bigger and better rolls! Thanks for sharing🙏

[@jawadkaraky9376]

A great review as always. Glad you liked episode 7, it was made by one of the most creative people in the industry in my opinion.

[@failureoncommand]

Thanks, man. Definitely starting to get a better perspective on such directors and movies, and learning to appreciate people like Cosmatos

[@albusnightspring8057]

It may be because I had already lost every hope after episode 5 and 6 but I personally hated episode 7. It has a good atmosphere and all but the characters are so hateable and the alien plot is just so rushed

[@failureoncommand]

@@albusnightspring8057 That's fair. To me, I wouldn't call it rushed, but it did end abruptly, if anything.

[@themidnighttavern6784]

Bro, that one was so bad. The first 5 were all pretty solid, the rest very very hit or miss. Part 7 is just people sitting in a room for half the episode.

[@GregDeocampoogle]

i didn't get that the protagonist in the first episode's defining trait was racist or that the episode was a racism metaphor. his primary characteristic was being mean, greedy, desparate.

[@failureoncommand]

Thanks for commenting! That is definitely true, but you can't deny that the racism/intolerance is also a huge part of the character. The episode's introductory scene (Nick driving as he listens to his radio) chooses to highlight this for a reason. SPOILERS AHEAD: I may have not focused too much on the greed aspect of the character, but I did mention it. However, to me, it felt like the racism/intolerance/just generally being a shitty person was his ultimate downfall. His greed lead to him pursuing the last book no matter the cost, ignoring instructions within the summoning room to rush and get it. But the fact that he chose to be shitty and intolerant is what sealed his fate. Had he not been an ass to the lady prior in the episode, she would not have locked him in. And the reason he was mean towards her was outright racism. It wasn't greed, as his fellow companion at the lot mentions at one point that he should just give her the stuff that remained in her old lot because Nick has no use for them either way(or something along those lines). So it wasn't greed at play here, but rather simply the fact that Nick is bad natured. And why is that the case? Because he dislikes non-whites, as his comments towards her clearly indicate. His greed opened up the gates of hell, but his prior negative actions, which were fueled by racism, managed to shut those same gates upon him.

[@andrewkohler3707]

​@@failureoncommand I entirely agree. I just hope she's able to get at least some of her parents' letters and children's pictures back. :'( (Yes, I cared more about than about the protagonist.) Although even if Nick didn't rapaciously dispose of them, the demon in the building might be an impediment.

[@failureoncommand]

Man, I felt that shit too. And to think that the experience was actually based on a real life situation that Guillermo Del Toro went through, where he came back to his lot to find out it was sold. The pain of losing these "collected memories" can't be easy. And yeah, the demon in the building may be a tad troubling lol

[@andrewkohler3707]

@@failureoncommand It was based on his own experience!? As someone who is extremely stubborn about keeping everything and even has actual archival training, I can't even think about it😭😭😭

[@andrewkohler3707]

@karma A blind person could get what was going on from the context quite plainly, actually.

[@onsnoreleave8674]

The Murmuring had me feeling like I was watching a different show. A much better one. It felt more like a movie the way it was shot and paced

[@failureoncommand]

Agreed!

[@lucasrosendal3420]

That's the magic of Jennifer Kent. She is the mind behind The Babadook. Can't wait to see what else she can do

[@anthonyt1t5]

I agree too, it's a surprise that some people are shitting on it. The scares or creepy moments were really good. I remember being really tense when she heard the whistling downstairs but her husband wasn't home. Story and acting was emotional. Andrew Lincoln was great, very likeable.

[@leannezezeski-sass2773]

Lot 36 was ok/meh but good enough to keep me continuing to watch the show, Graveyard Rats I really liked and found genuinely scary because I’m claustrophobic and I also liked the Victorian vibes, The Autopsy was great, one of my favorites, the Outside-I really enjoyed the cinematography and message of the story, Pickmans Model was actually my favorite but I’ve never read the original story so this was my first introduction to HP Lovecraft, Dreams in the Witches House was the worst; the only thing that made it worth watching was Jenkins Brown(the little rat guy) he was funny, The Viewing was really cool I enjoyed it, and The Murmuring was very sad and a great drama but I didn’t find it scary or horror at all

[@failureoncommand]

Yeah, I can see how Graveyard Rats could appeal to others, especially in regards to its well-executed vibe. But it was just too melodramatic for me. What would you say you liked most about Pickman's Model? What made it better than the others? Genuinely chuckled when I read your thoughts on Jenkins Brown. I guess he is a silly, goofy little rat man. And it seems like I didn't see the humor in that until you pointed it out lol As for the Murmuring, you are mostly right. The horror is only powerful if the story has already sucked you in. I watched that one alone, with the lights off, so I was completely engulfed within the story. The immersion heightened the barebones horror elements greatly, you know?

[@MourningCoffeeMusic]

I don’t know man, pretty much every episode was objectively good.

[@octoberlassie]

You captured my thoughts on every single episode almost to the letter. The Viewing especially. The end was too abrupt for the kind of build up it played with. Great video!

[@failureoncommand]

Really glad I spoke your mind, and thank you so much! I truly appreciate it!

[@gamermasta525]

Sometimes it's better to leave it up to the imagination because that can be far worse than anything you can see.

[@LyleVSXyle]

I’ve been so enamoured with the concept of Pickman’s Model that I was disappointed with how convoluted this adaptation was. It should have been a chamber piece with two actors in one location, like the story itself.

[@soundninja0]

The autopsy and Pickman's Model was legitimately great television and very chilling. The rest of them were very forgettable in my opinion.

[@failureoncommand]

We can shake hands on The Autopsy, but Pickman's Model was kind of a mess. If you enjoyed it, I would recommend reading the actual short story. It's infinitely better

[@Impalingthorn]

Nah the Outside was a mess and I don't care how you slice it. It wasn't scary. It wasn't entertaining. All likeable characters became utterly contemptible by the end. It has a painfully long run time to tell an incredibly run of the mill and predictable message that you can call the moment you see the title of the episode or the Alo Glow commercials and for all of that run time its ending is a complete joke that is literally just the protagonist laughing at your face for a minute straight. And yeah, I know the ending suggests she is actually dying and this is all just a hallucination she is having in her head, I don't care. The episode straight up made me feel like it stole an hour of my life away from me and then laughed about it at the end. And you know what really MAKES all of these things so egregious? The pacing. It just reaffirms the same things over and over again when you already know where the trajectory of the plot is heading. People can say whatever they want, this episode, out of any other, is the most pretentious and least respectful towards your time as a viewer and was the only one I couldn't get SOME measure of enjoyment out of.

[@mismismism]

I liked Lot 36, Graveyard Rats, The Autopsy and the Outside. Pickman's Model was fine to me but not great, I did not like the last 3 though, Dreams in the Witch House was the only one that I actually found to be bad though, that was just a mess for me. The Viewing was visually cool but gave me nothing and felt like it ended abruptly, like they wasted time showing all this stuff that meant nothing really while the climax felt rushed and cut short. The Murmuring was just meh, very run of the mill ghost story, felt like I'd seen it many times before.

[@failureoncommand]

Interesting opinions. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@shermanwooman8608]

Your accent is close to Dan Steven’s ‘Alo Glo’, funny coincidence.

[@failureoncommand]

I mean I'm flattered... I think. Will be useful when I start doing sponsorships lol

[@gaetano_kojj]

This is the first review I found that I almost completely agree with. I made my own ranking of the episodes and the only difference was that I did not put the Viewing in it at all. It's so different, beautiful yet absurd that I had a hard time comparing it to anything else in the series. I'm glad I'm not the only one who got caught completely off guard by the Murmuring, in the best way possible. But of course the real reason I came here is to hear more deserved hate towards Dreams in the Witch House. I relate so much to this feeling of crushed hope for a good Lovecraft adaptation right after finishing Pickman's Model, especially that I knew the original story beforehand and it is still one of my favourites. Some of the scenes here remind me of a film I made in middle school and didn't even like back then, this episode is hilariously bad.

[@failureoncommand]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Glad to hear you agree and to see that we basically thought the same thing lol. I've made my share of middle school movies, so I feel ya

[@Impalingthorn]

I legit don't know what makes people so compelled to defend The Outside. It's predictable. It lacks substance. For the few active characters in the plot, all of the likeable ones are either killed in very frustrating ways or become utterly hateable by the credit roll. It thinks it's a lot smarter than it is and I say that based on the fact that the director thought "People obsess over appearances" was groundbreaking messaging that needed to be explained in an interview. It's not even that it was boring, which it was, but it was the PRETENTIOUSNESS of it; the belief that it was doing something special and that it had payoffs and everything else it needed when it didn't. It is an episode self convinced of its own worth and literally spends the last minute of its run time laughing in your face.

[@jp32123]

is it just me? or arabs are #1 at covering movies/shows? first i accidentally discover high boi, and now you! 🙌😊

[@failureoncommand]

Thank you so much for the kind words. However, I must say, I'm frankly flabbergasted. How'd you figure I was Arab?

[@jp32123]

@@failureoncommand i am an arab myself (not trolling), i just have this name to stay lowkey 😉

[@failureoncommand]

Understandable lol Did the accent give me away? I don't want to come to terms with that reality. Please just convince me you're some super-sleuth accent-detective or something, and that that was the only way you managed to read through mine...

[@craftyallison555]

I just watched the series over the weekend and came to see other people's opinions of the stories. I guess I'm the only one who loved pickmans model and hated the viewing 😂😂 💁‍♀️💁‍♀️

[@chadwellington2524]

I didnt hate the viewing it was ok but i liked pickmans model

[@margotrose1437]

I love Cabinet of curiosities, is one episode better then another, l love the end of Autopsy, and the viewing is my best episode.

[@TheGodOfWarhammer]

I want that cabinet to store my warhammer and crisis protocol figures

[@failureoncommand]

Put my D&D minis in there too!

[@nachomiranda589]

I only really liked The Murmuring (the best one imo), The Viewing (visually amazing... the story fells kind of short, literally), The Autopsy (although not as much as you did, not that much a fan of body horror but it was creepy and misterious) and though i think it could've been a lot better (specially the second part) i enjoyed Pickman's Model. Dreams is the worst of all. I don't understand why they just didn't stick to the original story. They just turned a really weird tale into a generic evil witch halloween movie.

[@failureoncommand]

Glad to see we could see eye to eye on so many of 'em. And yeah, Dreams is just sad, really.

[@Graphicxtras1]

Agree with most of your review. The HP Lovecraft based ones were a big disappointment, not sure why they were even based on the stories as they just about had the name of the character and the title and little else, why totally change the story ?? And make it a lot worse. The Murmuring was very unusual, did enjoy it but it was very slow but beautifully shot with great performances. Autopsy was pretty decent and the Viewing excellent (though not sure if there was more to the film as it ends in a very odd way, perhaps it will be continued in season 2?). Quite liked the Outside but mainly because of the performances, the story didn't do much for me. Lot36 was pretty daft but perhaps one for those people that love those locker opening and bidding shows, was more curious about the other lot mentioned at the start.

[@failureoncommand]

For the Lovecraft stories, yes, EXACTLY! It's frankly just them purely benefitting from the value of his name and nothing else. We have practically identical thoughts about everything else. As for The Viewing, that's an interesting notion. I'd like to believe that it will be continued in season 2, because frankly it's something I would really like to see. Thanks for that brief review, I really enjoyed reading it!

[@anaistm174]

Wow. Just discovered your tiny channel, and my goodness, if you continue like that, success is gonna come knocking fast. Good luck!

[@failureoncommand]

Thank you so much, I truly appreciate it! I do hope it comes knocking fast, and I'm sure it will if sweet people like you keep stumbling onto it.

[@jdsantibanez]

It's a great show. I like them all.

[@failureoncommand]

Glad you enjoyed

[@roo1014]

I thought *Graveyard Rats* / *The Autopsy* / *The Viewing* / & *The Murmering* were the better episodes. - *Lot 36* was pretty lame imo - *The Outside* was decently good, though I don't think it ended how it should've - *Pickman's Model* was kind of a clusterf*ck - *Dreams in the Witch House* started off strong, but it's ending was really dumb and tacked on

[@failureoncommand]

Happy to have read your thoughts! What would you say did you like most about Graveyard Rats?

[@roo1014]

@@failureoncommand I thought it was impressively quick and fluent with the pacing. I liked the unique form of fear-inducing environment it gave with making us feel for the character's situation and the claustrophobic nature of the setting. Also liked the use of the super natural elements and how it resulted in a gruesome yet fitting ending.

[@ZombicidalMadMom81]

Regarding Lot 36; I have to know why the old storage unit owner hopped to his container door?

[@failureoncommand]

I assumed it was part of some pre-entry ritual. He was cutting up rabbits as (implied) sacrifices. Others said it was just a warm-up before entry because inside he'd have to jump over the summoning circle. They didn't really give an explicit explanation.

[@dmrfunkster]

i didnt mind the preachy, obviousness of the the first episode. I was however bothered by how the nice old lady became a worse villain than the main character by not helping him.

[@HighStrangeDrifter]

"There's no smoking in the Obelisk Chamber.."

[@failureoncommand]

*drops joint and pulls out a whole ass bong, then takes a fat rip* You never said anything about this!!!

[@carlossaraiva8213]

@@failureoncommand because puffing on ganja is so not like smoking!! I think i broke your stone.

[@griffongamer4779]

The Murmuring was definitely the best episode of the series. It works so well because it's a different type of horror from all the other stories, the horrors of loss. Losing a loved one is really scary, and to see those affected by it close themselves off from the people who care for them is heartbreaking. The performances by Essie Davis & Andrew Lincoln are incredible! Especially, Essie Davis who deserves a Golden Globe and Emmy nominations for this role.

[@failureoncommand]

Yes, I wholeheartedly agree. It was really beautiful.

[@boianko]

My problem with it was how disjointed the concepts were. The haunted house and the birds appeared, at least to me, to be wholly unrelated. Why did the birds matter in terms of the story anyways? They got a lot of attention for essentially being a backdrop to the actual story, and their supposed connection to the mother in the house was never explained.

[@failureoncommand]

I think the concept of the birds is meant to tie into the feeling of imprisonment that the mother had been feeling in the house. We know she was having an affair with a married man, and she'd birthed a son of his, and that she was waiting for him to return from the war. But he never returned to her, and instead returned to his wife, leaving the mother kind of trapped, stuck waiting for her lover with their own child as a reminder. The birds represent the freedom she seeks, freedom of the love that has shackled her to this house.

[@saiyasha848]

The Outside hit so close to home for me. I am luckily at a pint where i am able to look at myself more objectively, (The love and support of my Husband helped a lot, which is why it broke my heart to see Stacy not being able to take his support in) But i have been there. I am fairly introverted, if i ever go to a Party, I'm usually the one standing in the corner, I'm extremely uncomfortable with starngers and I barely know my Coworkers (though granted, we don't really work 'together' everyone works alone more or less, but I've also never really been able to find the energy or motivation to actually do get to know them better, and I am dreading a scheduled meet and greet that my boss proposed) I have looked at myself in the mirror and dispaired. And while I know that he only way to fix the parts of my that actually _need_ fixing (i.e. my weight, not because of beautystandarts, but for my poor joints) will take time, discipline and work. But it is tempting, so, so tempting sometimes to think "What if you just got a sucktion?" or "Maybe one of those wonderpowders does work!" Because it proposes such 'easy' and fast solutions. I am thankfully aware enough to know that, in the end, it would backfire on me, but that doesn't mean i cannot hear the siren song, when it calls. I'm not ugly, but I'm not what you would call conventionally attractive either. I consider myself avarage, which by now, I am fine with, but it hasn't always been that way and If I hadn't had a strong and empathetic support system, I'm not sure I would be as fine with my body as I am today.

[@failureoncommand]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts! It's nice to know that episode really hit for you. You're really hitting the nail on the head with the episode's themes and associations and your own interpretations of them; I feel these are thoughts that go through all our heads at some point or another.

[@anthonyt1t5]

The problem with that husband character is not once did he call her beautiful which definitely may have set her off. A woman can be beautiful to a man even if other people define beautiful differently. That was just something I noticed, as kind as the husband was, that one word could have changed everything. Imo atleast

[@saiyasha848]

@@anthonyt1t5 That is true. I am immensly lucky in the fact that my husband calls me beutiful, sexy, and cute every day. He managed to convince that he actually _does_ find me beutiful and alluring - something i struggle with if i look in the miror myself. I sometimes wonder how it would be to see the world through his eyes. Would i then finally be able to find myself beautiful?

[@anthonyt1t5]

@@saiyasha848 I remember thinking one girl was beautiful and cute but other people telling me she's actually ugly. My one deep regret is letting their opinions get to me. This is why I pretty much isolate myself from some family and friends cuz they can be very judgmental or superficial. Attraction can be different for alot of people. I think we let society and the media dictate on what is beautiful too much. We should decide for ourselves as individuals.

[@carlossaraiva8213]

I pretty much agree with all your opinions about this series and individual episodes. The only differences is that i consider thecfirst episode to be the weakest while i rate The Viewing as the best. But saying that i agree that The Autopsy, The Murmuring and The Viewing to be the best episodes of the series by far. Speaking for myself, it seems to me i'm wired to like a lot the type of movies Panos Cosmatos makes.

[@failureoncommand]

Glad to hear it! Thanks for commenting, man. And yeah, I've been unfair to Panos Cosmatos in the past but I have since repented and seen the error of my ways.

[@gostovahs8121]

So everyone I have spoken to on this series tends to look at me with confusion over my favs (the outside, the viewing, and the murmuring). It's so good to hear those three get some love, as most of my friends just ranted against them for being 'too boring'. I also really didn't get into the first two, and like you -- pickman's model was -- I don't know how to put it, it just fell so flat to me which really sucked as the atmosphere/tone was so good, and I loved the actors and actress's vibe. As for the witch house one, my brain decided it was just a silly goosebumps episode so I weirdly didn't even get angry about it. It felt so out of place, and it was kinda sad the camp and humor it was going for didn't even land... the viewing had legit better comedic moments (but still understood the assignment). Anyways, love the video!

[@failureoncommand]

Thank you so much for the kind words. Really enjoyed reading your thoughts on the matter too. Glad we were mostly in agreement.

[@slalissg3813]

You perfectly summarized my feelings on "the dreams in the witch house". I knew the short story prior to watching the episodes and loved it. Seeing how they butchered this amazing story in this joke of an episode left me extremely disappointed. You really have a talent for reviews. Keep up the good work 👍

[@failureoncommand]

That's really sweet, thank you so much! I truly appreciate it, and am sincerely glad you enjoyed it and that I managed to speak your mind. Dreams is such an amazing story and a truly wasted opportunity here.

[@pliskinishmael7190]

First episode was horrible! **SPOILERS** I was getting excited when they found a secret room but they made the guy so fking idiotic at the end that it just made the entire episode feel like total garbage. Was he not surprised about an actual demon!? He was literally freaking out when he saw the crosses but nah, gonna portray the "Greedy SOB" type at the end and ignore the LITERAL DEMON ON THE FKING FLOOR and get them all killed. God, it was fking horrible!

[@failureoncommand]

Yeah, it did border on funny at one point...

[@LazloSon]

I didn’t think it was good enough for me to check out the whole show. After the first two episodes I picked an additional 2 for consideration then dipped out. A second season could be interesting but I’ll definitely be wary of which episodes I choose to watch first.

[@failureoncommand]

Yeah, that's a wise approach. I'll probably be doing the same... Unless I review them.

[@pkvanderzee6226]

10:19 they pulled it off way better in Masters of horror..go check that one out

[@failureoncommand]

I'll put that on my list!

[@pkvanderzee6226]

@@failureoncommand Directed by ..yeah even Stuart Gordon..Dreams in the Witch house is a real one to watch..and comes so close to HP s original story....hell itś even really scary...go watch that one..itś on the masters of horror series..on dvd..

[@christianwerdehausen]

I had a lot of fun with episode 2. Great to watch in a home theater with a big tv or beamer, Auro 3-D, and AV-Receiver.

[@failureoncommand]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@usingforposting]

I agree most of your scores here, more or less same as me. Only few I don't really agree: - EP.5 Pickman's model I would give 8 at least. The atmosphere is really good, it is the other kind of horror that gives me quite an impression. - EP.7 The Viewing I will give 5 at best. The conversation part is good, but the Reveal of the Monster is quite bad, and it feels like B Class movie horror. After finishing all, I like the below: - EP.3 The Autopsy = Around 8.5/10 - EP.4 The Outside = Around 8/10 - EP.5 Pickman's Model = Around 8/10 - EP.9 The Murmuring = Around 9/10 Below are Mediocre: - EP.1 Lot 36 = Around 3.5/10 (Too forceful the Ending) - EP.2 Graveyard Rats = 4.5/10 - EP.7 The Viewing = 5/10 (Ending is too Forceful and like a B Class movie Horror) Below is bad: - EP.6 = 1/10. That 1 Mark is for the Actors. I feel the Pain of Walter losing her sister, actors is not the main issue, the main issue is the story is really bad, like everything all over the places. story is sore to watch and the Ending with that Mouse-man (Sorry don't know how to call it) inside Walter is plainly stupid and forceful to simply kill off Walter. to give a bad ending.

[@failureoncommand]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts! Agreed, particularly in regards to EP 6. You sum it up well. As for Ep7, it is a bit of a mixed bag and kind of has a particular audience, so I feel you.

[@country383]

Just like 'Love Death and Robots' , Some episodes were excellent and others sucked quite frankly but tbh ? I was a little surprised that after watching 'Cabinet' , it wasn't as good as i so badly wanted it to be but that's just IMO. Having said that though , I'd like to see a season two because it just might get better , atleast i really want it to. I really need a good horror / mystery / action/ series.

[@failureoncommand]

Same, same. I'm on board for more mystery and horror, especially if it's more (hopefully good this time) adaptations of Lovecraft stories and such.

[@ste4392]

I enjoyed The Pickman's Model, but just hated every other episode. I just found myself checking how long was left around about 25 minutes in. I'm glad people enjoyed it, but I just found the majority of the episodes dull, drawn out and never at all scary

[@failureoncommand]

Pretty valid opinion, and I understand where you're coming from (to a degree). Irrelevant of if people liked or disliked the episodes, a lot of us seem to be in agreement that many of them really stretched out beyond what they can handle.

[@ste4392]

@@failureoncommand yeh, exactly. I think it's great if people liked them, I just felt a bit checked out before the pay of for most of them. Also thought the monsters often looked quite cheap haha great vid though, I'll be watching more

[@failureoncommand]

Lol I don't know about the monsters, they seemed decent to me. Thank you so much, though. Really appreciate you giving me your time!

[@MessrDookie101]

This is the kind of video they need to display dislikes for. If we can't overwhelm the creator with hate bombing how is he to know he's wrong? The Murmuring is the best ep.

[@tonygriego6382]

Completely agree with you on the two Lovecraft adaptations. And those were the ones I was looking forward to the most.

[@f.frederickskitty2910]

A few were very good, although I wasn't a fan of many. I'll still watch more if there is another season.

[@failureoncommand]

True, and same!

[@redsie1]

I regret watching the viewing, hated every everlasting minute of it.

[@failureoncommand]

Yeesh, that bad? What about it exactly did you hate so much?

[@gabymerman9005]

Same feeling. To me the dialogue part was excruciatingly long, uninteresting and, as I feared, totally irrelevant for what was to come. It just felt pointless, my patience didn't pay off. We just ended with an alien mystery going nowhere and two useless survivors. It's very sad because the aesthetic was promising, but as the whole anthology, great visuals and no depth. And yet I clearly was the target audience, I was ready to love it. 😶

[@redsie1]

@@failureoncommand the non stop lens flares and constant "music" sound effects got irritating, the same with the self masturbatory "you are the best in your field and i am rich". the conversation wasnt interesting to me plus far too drawn out(tape player changing tapes included) the characters seemed bland(so great, omg they so smart SHOW DONT TELL!!!!!!!!!) and the psychic seemed only in the show for the line "its watching you", and onto the rock/statue/thing.....its obviously alien from half a second glance, kinda wished it just slashed them up instead of the drawn out shows ending. lets call that a rough whinge and thankyou for coming to my TED Talk.

[@redsie1]

@@gabymerman9005 if a show constantly tells me someones great i automatically disbelieve it these days....and thats one thing this episode did non stop.

[@failureoncommand]

@Gaby Merman Can't argue the irrelevance of the dialogue, but to me, it was incredibly interesting. The ending is not traditional with its abtuptness, but its a change: a collector becomes the collected type of deal. I understand it won't appeal to everyone; even I would have liked more, but I still appreciated it fkr what it was.

[@Necrow_Productions]

You have earned my respect with this one, but I feel Ep 3 should have gotten a higher score and Ep 6 should have gotten a lower score. (Episode 6 should never have the word "success" associated with it!

[@loganlaslo2098]

@failureoncommand Just finished this series after it was recommended by a friend, I believe you hit the nail on the head about the ratings, but I believe you should've included the cast and the mastermind behind it, the directors. 1. Lot 36, Guillermo Navarro is just Del Toro lite. Navarro has the same cinematography of a Del Toro movie but without the passion and anal precision of detail that Del Toro has. Del Toro is subtle with his character buildup while Navarro is in your face like you said, sometimes you have to find a fine line between Show and Tell and Lot 36 was that occasion. The cast did a decent job for the direction that was given by Navarro, but I wish they applied more subtle elements to try and balance out Navarro's obvious moments. Sometimes it's best to stick with what you're good at which for Navarro is cinematography, not directing. 2. Graveyard Rats, Vincenzo Natali is in the wrong genre of horror, but he does his best for something that's completely out of his comfort zone. Natali specializes in Sci-fi horror, "Cube" and "Splice", yes, he does add his element of claustrophobic and body horror from his previous works but he's still a fish out of water. The cast was okay at best, with the main character played by David Hewlett being more of a caricature since he's also out of his element as well. The story was just okay and not scary so they could've taken it to greater heights but couldn't cause of the limitations from the director and talent. 3. The Autopsy, David Prior....holy shit this was a surprise! David Prior pretty much only made documentaries, which I believe greatly helped out how he was going to pace the episode since it didn't feel rushed at all. The autopsy scenes felt appropriate, cinematography enhanced certain scenes, and what made all of the story work was the main two leads, F. Murray Abraham and Glynn Turman. The close up of the hair standup scene with the slowly dimmed lights, cut off music and the voice inside the head to "Run" made stand up because I was nervous for that character. Prior utilized his style but he made sure to let the leads "Cook" to bring out it's full potential. Well done to all on this episode. 4. The Outside, Ana Lily Amirpour is in her element with this social thriller. I do believe you pretty much summed up well what this episode entailed that it borrowed a lot of elements from already used material and mixed it all up into a brand-new subject with her own spin. Her own spin is social element subtly hinted at the execution which is the madness of the beauty industry that it inspires. The lead actually did well to a play a character slowly devolving into a insane state of wanting to fit in. Solid episode to have but definitely not the one that should've been after the "The Autopsy". 5. Pickman's Model, Keith Thomas....I had a high hope for this one because this story actually hit on a different level when I read it as a pre-teen kid struggling with their own mentality and accepting who I am later on in my late teens. Keith was not the right director to handle this story, at all. The way Keith handled "Firestarter" by Stephen King should've been proof enough. Pickman's Model could've been one of the heavy hitters of this season and it was fumbled...not as bad as the other HP Lovecraft one but still fumbled. So many things were cut or altered to fit the standards of the modern cinema and the actors were not the right fit...I honestly believe Ben Barnes should've been Pickman and not Crispin Glover who is an odd guy but not on the level of demented. 6. Dreams in the Witch House, Catherine Hardwicke....why would Del Toro put probably his best episode of this season in the hands of the director who made Twilight...what the actual fuck. Plus, Rupert Grint as the main lead?? Big yikes considering he's an average actor at best and still way too recognizable as Ron from Harry Potter. So many people have already shit on this episode so just going to end this there. 7. The Viewing, Panos Cosmatos....what a ride I had with this one. I got major Stranger Things vibes from this one which was excellent and the sound design like you said was *chef's kiss* but I do believe this episode would've excelled much better as a movie than an episode. This episode was a tossup between a love and hate from the fans, I can see why but it's all on perspective. If you're telling a story with some horror elements implemented into it, then this is your episode but if you're looking for to be terrified...this episode doesn't hit that mark. Either way you look at it, its still was an excellent piece of art that was graced by Panos and the superb cast. 8. The Murmuring, Jennifer Kent excelled in another psychological thriller with this piece. Her work in the "The Babadook" is showing again in here with the silhouettes and the dark shadows during the night scenes or dream sequences. With heavy hitters like Andrew Lincoln and Essie Davis, this shouldn't miss right? Well, the problem is that psychological horror isn't made for everyone...usually it's made for people who have experienced heavy emotions in their lives either through grief or hardship. I personally think it did hit a cord with me and I wish other people would look at this episode differently as well. Very nice way to end the season and good way to want season 2.

[@failureoncommand]

Man, I absolutely loved reading through this review. You re-express many of the thoughts I had as I was watching and put into words some I never could. It is indeed a fault that I did not highlight the directors, but aside from Cosmatos and Hardwicke, I actually wasn't familiar with any of their works, and so felt it would be unfair to strike any sort of comparison. Nevertheless, thank you for the beautiful comment; I'm glad we agree.

[@SimpleKowalski]

I found all the episodes give different reactions and gave me different experience. I’m really peaky with specially horror movies. I watched whole season twice. “The murmuring” come on man! Till this day I have nightmares. Vibe, perfection of acting, soundtrack, environment and 1951 . Love the whole work and for sure I wanna see more .

[@mloftus8618]

I’m pretty critical of horror, they dont make ‘em like they used to, etc.etc. But I actually enjoyed this Creepshow-esque series quite a bit. Yes, it is heavy handed with the social commentary. But overall I enjoy it.

[@failureoncommand]

That makes me happy to read. Despite its many flaws, there is a lot to like here. Mostly the freedom the directors had in telling the stories THEY seemingly wanted to tell. (no matter how bad some of those stories were)

[@jmchez]

I watched the first five episodes and have only liked, "The Autopsy". I think that the whole series seems to be based on wretched excess and hatred of down-on-their-luck characters or "losers in life", particularly, the graveyard worker, the army vet, and the taxidermist woman. They were not successful and, therefore, must be punished for their illusory or actual crimes. Horribly punished. Yes, the graveyard guy desecrated graves but he didn't murder or rob the living. Also, anyone who buries people with valuable items deserved to have the grave robbed. Leave the items to your family or donate them to charity, otherwise, you are an a-hole. The wretched excess was most prominent in graveyard rats and Pickman's model. I mean, at some point, you got to say, "Just stop! You've made your point, repeatedly". As for, The Outside", was it a joke? Spoilers... All she did was cut her hair, and put on some better makeup and some fashionable clothes. Wait! She had all of that before? She didn't need the cream at all. She had a mostly-loving husband that, based on her personality and looks, she was lucky to get. Yet, she ends up killing him and preserving (by the way that's not how taxidermy works. She left all of the limb muscles and those would rot quickly). Was she a psycho from the start? The episode was more of a caricature than the others.

[@failureoncommand]

I think you're being unfair to The Outside. It's not as simple as her changing her clothes and hair. It's a more surreal, abstract concept. It's a transformation of the spirit, a leap and change in her nature, which made her different, which made her finally fit in. She had to embrace the materialism, the corruption, the obsession with self-image. Once that had been accomplished, it didn't matter WHAT she looked like. I admit, the episode does go crazy in some points, but it is an intentional exaggeration and absurdism.

[@carlossaraiva8213]

Funny enough, for all the dislike you have of that episode you absolutely nailed the episode in regard to content and message. What that episode jokes and mocks and slso subverts is the trope of the ugly ducking who so iften is depicted as good despite the ugly exterior but in this story the ugly duckling is as ugly inside as the vain swans because she interiorised their worldview line hook and sinker. The episode mocks not only the beautiful people but also the "ugly" people who lionize and legitimize the beautiful people. If you trade the concept of beauty to wealth, this episode wpuld movk not just the ricj but also the poor who think alike the rich and would act like the rich of only they got rich as well. The po8nt is that its not the elites tgat are to blame for the shittiness in the world but also the hoi polloi that folow their lead unquestionably.

[@thomasceneri867]

Why do you think that you’re not in a position to say what’s scary? You aren’t any different from anyone else. If it frightens you, then it’s scary. 😊

[@failureoncommand]

It's basically because I don't get frightened much by traditional horror stuff. Mostly thick-skinned when it comes to jumpscare-y monsters and demons and that typa shit. So yeah, not much of a reference to tell what you what is or isn't scary WHEN it is more basic stuff like that...

[@mobiuspaw494]

The Murmuring is the best so far. Episode 7 was the worst.

[@failureoncommand]

The Murmuring was indeed amazing. What made you dislike Ep7?

[@carlossaraiva8213]

The Murmuring was fantastic. The Viewing was even better.

[@vnvmode]

Episode 7 was the worst of the lot. the only thing decent was some of the music.

[@dubbingsync]

From what I’ve seen of the show so far, Dreams in The Witch House is easily the worst episode yet. It doesn’t really follow the story at all, it might as well have been a different title and character names. I might have enjoyed it a little if it did.

[@sdqsdq6274]

lot 36 was a personal story that happen to del toro,minus the satanic octopus, just rented lot sold away of his belongings

[@failureoncommand]

Whew, glad the satanic octupus wasn't a part of it. Could have been a hairy situation for Del Toro.

[@carlossaraiva8213]

When i watched this series i left episode 7 for last because it was co-writen and directed by Panos Cosmatos, whose works i have enjoyed a lot. It was a good decision as it was the episode i enjoyed the most. So much so i rewatched it immediatly after my first viewing, something i also did when i first watched Cosmatos' Beyond The Black Rainbow.

[@failureoncommand]

That's some dedication. I better watch that one, I suppose. I've only seen Mandy, and during a time when I did not appreciate Cosmatos enough.

[@carlossaraiva8213]

@@failureoncommand Some say Panos Cosmatos' works and style are an acquired taste. I see that as a compliment. Few filmmakers have a unique destinctive style and this hombre certainly has no lack of that, for sure. When i was younger i used to detest Fellini, first time i saw his movie 8 1/2 i though it was an utter pretentious bore. Now i see it as an entertaining, stylish and poingnant movie. I was never dumb about movies but that one flew over my m8nd in my early 20s but later i got it. With some luck we evolve.

[@madmachanicest9955]

By the way there's no such thing as a good adaptation of an HP Lovecraft story. And if you thought the plot dialogue and characterization were all bad and off. Congratulations that makes us the best Lovecraft adaptation ever because for all the guys imaginative talents he cannot write a conversation or normal human behavior whatsoever.

[@failureoncommand]

I don't know, man. Kind of an extreme approach. I admit, I don't remember seeing any previous Lovecraft adaptations before. However, character interactions in the books never struck me as particularly odd. Maybe eerie, at times, but that just served to fit the overall tone. Dreams here wasn't a Lovecraft story, not tonally, and only slightly thematically. People acting and behaving weird wasn't a part of the general atmosphere, but rather stood out as clearly bad writing.

[@theresamerhej2559]

Fock is a great judging metric! 12/10 would agree with everything it has to offer.

[@failureoncommand]

Thank you. You'll hopefully be seeing it often!

[@spendingtimetogether8428]

Some areas where we disagree: Episode 1: great start to the series, I thought it was an 8 Episode 4: absolutely horrible, we all know what was going on and it drags and drags and there's no payoff, just bad, a 6 for me, if even Episode 8: it could've done with *a lot* of editing as there were too many extraneous scenes. It's a feel-good story but imho not the best episode of s1, just a 7 (e3 was it for me, a 9 at least). Tx for your analysis, it's a good show still despite some bad episodes and I look forward to s2.

[@CordellPotts]

I came here to avidly disagree, But instead.... Dreams in The Witch House was incredibly disappointing. I liked the other episodes so much that I kinda gave it a pass without thinking about it much.

[@failureoncommand]

I mean, that's understandable. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@elderofzion]

alright. i don't feel like watching the series but i was wondering what it's like. got my questions answered in under 20 mins. cheers

[@failureoncommand]

Eyy, glad I could be of service, my friend.

[@113alfafan]

I agree with everything you said but the murmuring was by far the worst episode out of all of them. It was the worst horror short I’ve ever seen. There was nothing even remotely about it scary it was just an overly irritating woman being an absolute pain for her husband with some super weak horror elements focusing on grief and her insufferable character. Giving it a nine when you have an 8 to the autopsy show you aren’t really a horror guy. Even the pick man’s model was at least unsettling with its artwork. The murmuring was exactly what the name entails: soft, low and indistinct. Other than those I think you nailed the review but the murmuring was truly terrible.

[@failureoncommand]

Your description of the episode made me lol. I mean you're not wrong, I am definitely NOT a horror guy. In fact, I preferred The Murmuring because it was so horror-minimal (though I really felt like its scarce usage of horror elements was hella effective). And I was rating them as stories in general, not as HORROR stories in particular, you feel me?

[@113alfafan]

@@failureoncommand I totally understand. I think I was just hoping for a grand finale on the eighth episode and it wasn’t packing the punch I was hoping for. Great review though! Best part of the whole series for me was the awesome musical score from the viewing. Awesome synth music and very difficult to find just as the episode stated ;)

[@rice6713]

"about an overly irritating woman being an absolute pain for her husband" her infant daughter died not long ago and her husband wanted to have sex in an abandoned ghost house... did we see the same episode?

[@ottohoulihan2743]

Dreams in the witch house is a fantastic story by Lovecraft....so why they changed it so much is a mystery. Brown jenkin is creepy as fuck in the original....here it's just silly.

[@failureoncommand]

Totally.

[@copito2310]

Glad to see other people talk about the flaws this show had, not just act like it's great and perfect cause it's Guillermo del Toro's... Pickman's model was so badly adapted you could tell it was based on something but couldn't developed it right. The lead character just wouldn't act like a normal person and resolve things with logic but instead he just freaks out the whole time and doesnt explains or talks nothing to the other characters to resolve atleast something. And the ending was very random and out of nowhere and silly, a dissapointment not just because the concept looked more interesting but it's the first episode I disliked on the show and I really disliked it. 5/10 it's perfect cause at least production and acting wise it's solid. Dreams of the Witch House is fun if You turn your brain while watching it, felt like a more family friendly horror story, still gotta admit it was mediocre and just too dumb and wasted it's lead actor. 4/10 to me.

[@failureoncommand]

Great reviews, and thanks for commenting! You definitely hit the mark on both Pickman's Model and Dreams in the Witch House. I hadn't seen general reception to the show much before I made my video, so I was glad that there were plenty others who saw its flaws and didn't just praise it blindly for its name power.

[@chrisbrowne8645]

the viewing was all look and no substance for me. It evoked a time and place for sure, but the story went nowhere and the characters were pretty two dimensional imo, much like Pickman's Model in fact.

[@GardeniaBlossoms_]

Great Review!

[@failureoncommand]

Thank you so much!

[@mortaniusdernekromant7288]

My best episodes are 1,2,3,5 and the worst boring as fuck episodes 4,6,7,8 seems that we can agree on 2 episodes.

[@failureoncommand]

Well, hey, I'm happy we at least have 2 lol

[@SimpleKowalski]

I found all the episodes give different reactions and gave me different experience. I’m really peaky with specially horror movies. I watched whole season twice. “The murmuring” #1 Till this day I have nightmares. Vibe, perfection of acting, soundtrack, environment and 1951 . Love the whole work and for sure I wanna see more .

[@failureoncommand]

Glad you liked the whole thing so much... And truly, the murmuring is indeed amazing.

[@vampire_vandal]

I cant agree more. Dreams in the witch house just sucked. everything else i rather liked tbh, except episode 4 was just too weird for me. well done, but too weird lol

[@failureoncommand]

Understandable lol

[@vincentvangogh3634]

I disagree, i loved it, it was awesome and we need more

[@failureoncommand]

Seems like you replied to the title without actually watching the video, my friend

[@MaryMi]

Great review! Episode 3 and 8 ate in my opinion

[@failureoncommand]

Thank you so much! Hell yeah, they absolutely devoured.

[@carlossaraiva8213]

Ate?

[@failureoncommand]

@Carlos Saraiva it's relatively modern slang for "did a good job". If something ate, then it was awesome. Thank you for coming to my TED talk

[@carlossaraiva8213]

@@failureoncommand Really?? Man, this kids and their slang! Thanks my droog.

[@anthonyt1t5]

Dreams in the witch house was very disappointing to me too. I was hoping for some great tension and surrealism like in annihilation (scifi film with Natalie Portman) but all we got was a mess of an episode with too many lame used up ideas and not an impressive performance by Rupert Grint. To be honest, I don't think he was ever that good of an actor. Especially compared to Daniel radcliffe.

[@rustyshackleford8022]

Dialogue was so vapid and grating in the viewing I turned it off at 20 minutes after skimming the remainder. The only good episode is The Autopsy with goyer writing and prior directing (who should be a much bigger name but for the torpedoing of the empty man with the studio's collapse) they really make the rest of the writers and directors (including del taco) look like they belong on the short bus. Poor acting, writing, incompetent tone/atmosphere and terrible pacing infest every other episode. Was also clever to cast Glynn Turman as essentially the same role as he played in John Dies At the End, nice way to sidestep netflix's affirmative action policies without getting an incompetent actor (looking at you dreams in the witch house). P.S. Poor Crispin Glover was wasted on pickman's model and they completely butchered the story.

[@evantaylor4796]

The only ones I liked were The Murmuring (because I love Jennifer Kent), The Viewing (because…. Paños Cosmatos and this was indeed more lovecraftian Thant the lovecraft adaptations) and The Outside because I love people going through a spiral of madness… and that’s it I would love if they work in a second season with Ari Aster, Mike Flanagan, Gaspar Noe and Robert Eggers (also, this show need more Asian horror)

[@failureoncommand]

You got good taste, my man. Ooooh, those are some big names... Exciting to think about.

[@Albus_Rex]

I found the autopsy to be very boring. Gore doesn't bother me as I've seen plenty, and all over the dialogue at the end with needless exposition just had me cringing. I thought this was supposed to be horror, now you're taking me out of it so you can explain yourself. Certified S N O O Z E

[@failureoncommand]

I can agree that it went overboard with the exposition at times, but I still managed to enjoy it despite that. Made for an interesting narrative, horror elements aside.

[@supersayayinclark]

I have to disagree with you on the 4th one. It was unnecessarily dragged WAAAY too long, and the characters didn't have any good trait to them... specially the main one

[@TheMarionick]

I watched up until Dreams in the Witch House. I liked the first three episodes, didn't like the ones after that and DITWH I didn't even finish because it failed to hook me, even with Rupert Grint in the lead.

[@failureoncommand]

I would advise you to also watch the last two episodes. They're pretty good.

[@TheMarionick]

I heard good things about The Murmering so I wanted to watch that one eventually anyway.

[@pkvanderzee6226]

I have read 2 stories: HP Lovecraft's "Dreams In the witch house" and "Pickman's models" for a moment actualy I thought the story Rats was based on Stephen King's short story: Graveyard Shift...that would have been a nice one..

[@failureoncommand]

I'm not familiar with that story. Would you recommend it?

[@pkvanderzee6226]

@@failureoncommand Yes sure! It's presented/collected in a short story album by Stephen King called ..Night Shift..I reccomend you buy that and read all the stories..even the movie called Grave Yard shift is a real 1 to watch and a cult classic

[@failureoncommand]

Thank you for the great suggestions!

[@skyharb]

Haven't watched the series yet, but the video set me up for it by giving a thorough yet spoiler free review using the supreme FOCK method. Editing is amazing and the whole video just pulls you in like an enchanted vine in a cursed woods (definitely not the same flimsy one that dragged Rupert).

[@failureoncommand]

Fuckin killed me with that last line lol Thanks a dozen, man. The FOCK lives to serve.

[@malecheerleader2007]

The only one I hated was The Viewing! It was boring and annoying. I was falling asleep the whole time. I hated every second. The last 5 minutes were good. The Autopsy and Outside were my favorites!

[@failureoncommand]

Different strokes I guess!

[@Nozverah2]

First Hellboy was fantastic along with the second one but not as much as the first. It was too much fantasy & lighter toned than the original. They also upped the humor & I didn't like that too much but it makes sense Del Toro would take that approach. Especially if you're going for a family friendly superhero film you'd want him to grow into a household name like any other super icon.

[@failureoncommand]

Haven't seen Hellboy, save for snippets here and there, but thank you for the sound analysis!

[@bullymaguire9677]

Woulda been better if it was r rated

[@failureoncommand]

Would very likely improve on several aspects. But if they can't get a story right, an R rating isn't gonna do much for them either way

[@carlossaraiva8213]

If it was rated R i would demand a pirate story... because, you know, ahhrrr! Yes, i know, i explained the joke, i am very sorry about that.

[@terilynnelincoln3247]

The whole thing has been so disappointing! I love Guillermo but he failed miserably this time.

[@failureoncommand]

That's a shame.