As the days grow shorter and the nights get spookier, there’s no better way to embrace the spirit of Halloween than by diving headfirst into a chilling gothic thriller. And for those seeking a truly immersive experience, Mike Flanagan’s “The Haunting of Bly Manor” on Netflix is an absolute must-watch.
A Modern Masterpiece of Gothic Horror
Gothic stories have always held a special place in our literary landscape. From the creaking manors and brooding weather to the romantic twists and underlying sense of dread, these tales offer a unique blend of atmosphere and intrigue. Mike Flanagan, a leading figure in modern horror adaptations, has masterfully brought these classic elements to life with his anthology series, starting with “The Haunting of Hill House,” adapted from Shirley Jackson’s landmark novel. Two years later, he followed it up with “The Haunting of Bly Manor,” drawing inspiration from Henry James’ “The Turn of the Screw,” one of the most adapted novellas in history.
Revisiting “The Turn of the Screw” with a Modern Twist
While you can certainly watch “The Haunting of Bly Manor” one episode at a time, we highly recommend settling in for a weekend binge. The story follows a governess who moves to a remote English manor to care for two orphaned children. As she settles in, strange occurrences begin, leading her to believe the children are haunted by an unseen presence. Originally published in 1898, James’ novella continues to captivate audiences, and Flanagan’s adaptation offers a fresh perspective on this timeless tale.
Flanagan’s Unique Approach to Gothic Adaptation
Unlike some adaptations that stick rigidly to the source material, Flanagan takes a more liberal approach, drawing inspiration from various elements within James’ works. His version of “The Turn of the Screw” is set in the 1980s and follows an American au pair (played by Victoria Pedretti) who finds employment caring for two orphaned children at Bly Manor. As the series unfolds, we delve into her past, get to know the staff of the manor, and unravel the mysteries that haunt its residents.
“The Haunting of Bly Manor” kicks off with a familiar framing device common in Gothic stories: a gathering of people huddled around a fire, sharing a scary tale. Flanagan masterfully weaves modern interpretations into classic themes, paying close attention to the governess’ fragile mental state and exploring the complexities of romance and sexuality present in the original story.
Expanding the Mike Flanagan Universe
While “The Haunting of Hill House” was based on a single novel, “Bly Manor” allowed Flanagan to draw inspiration from James’ other novellas and short stories, enriching the nine-episode season. While some storylines are more effective than others, there are clear highlights, such as the mid-season episode exploring Hannah (T’Nia Miller), the housekeeper. Inspired by James’ “The Altar of the Dead,” this episode casts a new light on the first half of the series.
A Love Story Wrapped in Gothic Horror
“Though ‘The Haunting of Hill House’ is about a very tight family, ‘Bly Manor’ is about strangers, a family that is created,” Flanagan told Entertainment Weekly in 2020. “All of the people that inhabit Bly Manor come from completely different backgrounds, and get to know each other through friendship, tension, conflict, and love. What sets Bly Manor apart is that at its heart, it’s a love story. It’s a gothic romance story.”
“Hill House” and “Bly Manor” are prime examples of Flanagan’s sensitivities as a writer and filmmaker. If you enjoyed one, you’re likely to appreciate the other. However, be aware that one key difference lies in their intent. While “Hill House” focuses on a family grappling with a traumatic past, “Bly Manor” explores characters clinging to memories – and ghosts that revisit moments of happiness.
“The Haunting of Bly Manor” is streaming now on Netflix. Prepare to be captivated by its haunting beauty, intricate storytelling, and unforgettable characters. This Halloween season, immerse yourself in the world of Bly Manor and discover a gothic romance you won’t soon forget.
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