Every Mike Flanagan Netflix show ranked from worst to best

1. The Haunting of Hill House

I love this show.

The Haunting of Hill House isn’t just another horror story. Hill House is quite literally a masterclass in how to properly do atmospheric suspense. Based on Shirley Jackson’s 1959 novel of the same name, this show takes us through a labyrinth of a house where every creaking floorboard and shadowy corner might just be hiding a ghost or two (no, literally. Rewatch the show and make sure you’re looking at the background in any shots in the house). But what makes it stand head and shoulders above the rest? Let’s talk about it.

Firstly, it’s not just about the scares (though there are plenty, mind you). Flanagan’s genius lies in blending profound family dynamics into his narratives successfully. Each episode peels back layers from the Crain siblings, revealing their traumas, memories, and connections to this ominous mansion. The house is as much a character as any of the humans, reflecting their deepest fears and desires. In the gut-wrenching, single-shot episode “Two Storms” there’s a whopping 17-minute continuous shot that beautifully dances between past and present, showcasing not just the technical skills of Flanagan and his crew, but a deep understanding of how space (a house, in this case) can be a silent witness to decades of drama. If only walls could talk.

And then there’s the meticulous attention to detail. Every frame of Hill House seems painstakingly crafted to either advance the story or send shivers down your spine, both successfully. Hidden ghosts, symbolic motifs, and little Easter eggs are sprinkled throughout, rewarding eagle-eyed viewers with more than just superficial spooks. Whether it’s the absolutely depressing moment that is Bent-Neck Lady’s identity reveal (my heart still hurts every time I watch that scene) or the jaw-dropping, disturbing Red Room mystery, Flanagan ensures that every reveal is as emotionally charged as it is horrifying.

In a sea of jump scares prevalent in modern horror, The Haunting of Hill House stands as a testament to the genre’s potential to be deeply touching and terrifying at the same time and in the same breath.

As we close the creaky doors on our chilling journey through Mike Flanagan’s Netflix anthology, it’s clear that Flanagan’s horror is more than just monsters and jump scares. It’s about heartbeats, family dynamics, and the shadows of our past that haunt our present.

Whether you agree with this ranking or not, one thing’s undeniable: in the echoing halls of Netflix horror, Flanagan’s voice is a hauntingly unforgettable one. So, as the credits roll and the lights come back on, we can’t help but wonder – what spectral tales will he spin next?

Don’t look behind you – Eliza is still there.

Which Mike Flanagan Netflix show is your favorite? Were you a fan of The Fall of the House of Usher?