Shows these days are becoming more cliche every day. It becomes almost boring to follow along with the plot and characters because it becomes too obvious (like a Hallmark movie or TV show). Now, I cannot generalize all shows that are out now, but it is becoming something that I have noticed over the years. I cannot deny that, even I sometimes watch shows like that because they are mind numbing and something I can relax too after a long day of classes. There are shows out there that do not abide by this new trend, they still retain surprise and complete and utter shock; something people should expect out of a good show. One of those shows is "American Horror Story."

This is a show that becomes almost impossible to describe due to its ever-changing characters, plots, themes, and more. Each season is completely different from the next only utilizing the same cast in every show with a hint of connection from other seasons. The creators of the show keep fans on the edge of their seats until the first show airs. Even when fans think they know what the season is going to be about, they are almost always caught off guard every time. Fans are kept in the dark until the very last few episodes that bring the whole season together and answer all of our questions.

Characters that you would never think you’d end up rooting for become your favorite characters. Or characters you thought you would like or find similarities in blow your mind and destroy your original idea of them. For example, in season 5, Hotel, one of the main characters is a serial killer and ends up being killed at the end, just outside the hotel. One of the magical aspects of the hotel is that once you die in the hotel you stay there forever. I was actually sad he didn't get to die in the hotel because now he doesn't get to be with his family forever; he is subject to visit them once a year on Devil’s Night. This should be a character you despise or even think, yeah, he deserved that, but for me, that didn't happen. Another instance would be in season 4, Freak Show, with the creepy, killer clown. He is obviously murderous, horrible, and rather terrifying, but once he dies and you understand his backstory you feel sort of bad for him. Once you understand his motivation, you also feel bad because he true intentions were pure before he was mutilated. This is quite common with "American Horror Story" and there are many more instances where this occurs.

Now, this is not a show for the faint-hearted or weak-stomached. This show is gory, mind boggling, and warps your sense of right and wrong. It explores complex problems in society while also incorporating complicated and controversial views of what it means to be human. Some of the plethora of difficult topics include: interracial marriage, same-sex marriage, unfaithful marriage, race, transgender, justified murder, and much more.

This is one of my absolute favorite shows because it is so complex and rich, full of so many different ways at looking at life. The plots are always intriguing and constantly keep you on the edge of your seat. Nothing is permanent in the show and no character is safe. The show is almost like a complex, sticky spider web where threads are connected in places you wouldn't expect, and twists and turns are right around the corner. The characters are extremely well thought out and deep, with much more to them than meets the eye. If you're looking for a new show to watch on Netflix or to follow along on TV that intrigues you and forces you to piece together the missing puzzle pieces then this is the show for you. If you love a little horror and a show that forces you to look at society in a more critical and convoluted eye than this is the perfect show for you.