American Horror Story

:

Season 4
  • Network: FX
  • Series Premiere Date: Oct 5, 2011
Season #: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
7.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 508 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 334 out of 508
  2. Mixed: 94 out of 508
  3. Negative: 80 out of 508
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User Reviews

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  1. Freakswine
    Oct 9, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Com certeza o melhor pilot de todas as temporadas, adorei ver a Sarah interpretando 2 personalidades diferentes, estava ótima. A cena final com a Elsa retirando suas próteses foi a que mais me chocou.… Expand
  2. miss-April-Voss
    Oct 15, 2014
    10
    I highly recommend this insane, shocking, and terrifying show! This show is highly unique and the story lines and actors are full of originality. If you love to be scared and freaked out than you will love this show!
    Nothing like it! It truly is a freak show! All of the 4 seasons have blown me away!
  3. DirigiblePulp
    Jan 26, 2015
    7
    An up and down season, even by AHS standards. The promise of the premise, the setting, the actors, the situations and the events seems to be an exciting and interesting one rife with possibilities, but nothing is ever really made of them. Jessica Lange plays a variation of her Coven character, coveting fame and fortune and youth and "using" Freaks to get there. It's nothing new.

    The    An up and down season, even by AHS standards. The promise of the premise, the setting, the actors, the situations and the events seems to be an exciting and interesting one rife with possibilities, but nothing is ever really made of them. Jessica Lange plays a variation of her Coven character, coveting fame and fortune and youth and "using" Freaks to get there. It's nothing new.

    The biggest problem with the season was a lack of narrative momentum. The show just lolled from scene to overly dramatic scene, a whole lot of sound and fury without much or any dramatic weight or wicked Asylym-esque fun. It's the kind of show where you keep having to pinch yourself to remind you that what you are seeing is "fascinating", but you never feel it and you never care and it never really is (Edward Mordrake aside, I did especially like those episodes and of course the whole Pepper backstory episode).    … Expand
  4. Skitte
    Dec 29, 2014
    7
    I am a big fan of AHS. This season was a great one, like fantastic acting and impressive visual. I like how yhe relationships between characters evolve quickly and different but the single disturbing thing is the miserable and boring and cheesy story. Unlike the other seasons, this was a disappointment as story, even though the acting made it easier to swallow.
  5. Adson
    Oct 18, 2014
    10
    Oh my goodness, I've been waiting so long for this season and I'm not disappointed. The characters are perfects, the story is very good, not predictable at all, the performance of the cast is awesome and I don't know what to expect next, but I think will be an amazing season.
  6. Meth-dude
    Nov 21, 2014
    7
    Freak show is probably the most interesting one.The show is all about the freaks and it's good.The acting is great and the visuals/special effects are really well made.
  7. BadCat
    Nov 15, 2014
    10
    I think it's gonna be my favorite season of AHS. I'm just in LOVE with it !
    And Jessica Lange, still the Queen of this show, she's an amazing and talented actress!
  8. Fordee15
    Apr 16, 2015
    5
    "American Horror Story: Freakshow" is a... a huge let down.

    I was so looking forward to this season, but, after a great first four episodes everything went down hill. Like previous seasons; the plot just became jumbled and 'thrown together'. I was starting to doubt that Ryan Murphy could even hold a plot. It started out so strong, but, as the season progressed, it just spiraled out of    "American Horror Story: Freakshow" is a... a huge let down.

    I was so looking forward to this season, but, after a great first four episodes everything went down hill. Like previous seasons; the plot just became jumbled and 'thrown together'. I was starting to doubt that Ryan Murphy could even hold a plot. It started out so strong, but, as the season progressed, it just spiraled out of control.

    Don't get me wrong- Freakshow has a few redeeming qualities. Great acting, great sets, great atmosphere, great soundtrack, snobby childish Dandy, and a wonderful, wonderful, wonderful send-off to Jessica Lange.

    But, there is essentially no plot. It gets swamped half-way through the season, and things basically just get rolled together into a big blob of meaningless plot lines and drama. Top it off with the amount of wasted characters and... well...

    I really wanted to like Freakshow. But, I could only barely. It has some great qualities, but all these qualities are brought down by the fact that the season was horribly, horribly written.    … Expand
  9. CharlieGray
    Sep 11, 2015
    10
    Unfortunately, this is the last season where Jessica Lange is in. She was by far the best actrees in the series.
    But besides that, AHS: Freak Show it's an scary and amazing show.
  10. JonesTexx
    Oct 26, 2014
    10
    I just love every season. There is no other show like this. It's like a movie in 13 parts in each season. I do really like this season so far, I think that there are going to be many surprises for us as viewers, like it always was. I mean it's Ryan Murphy and his brilliant ideas.
  11. francisrgo
    Oct 9, 2014
    8
    The first episode sets the tone of Season 4,darker and "freakier." The characters are more pronounced and seem to be well connected unlike previous seasons. The dynamics and chemistry between the actors are stronger and balanced.
  12. Sato505
    Oct 29, 2014
    10
    This season is just so amazing and to all the haters you can't be serious, I mean after watching 3 episodes. Really ?? This show has everything in : Horror, Humor, great camera work and talented actors !!
    I don`t know any other GOOD horror show except American Horror Story!!
  13. shunthathouse
    Oct 9, 2014
    10
    By far the best premiere of the anthology series. Coven forsake the horror for silliness and a lighter atmosphere which had its perks, but forgot about the true core of the series. The premiere featured terrific actors in juicy roles, the Visuals were simply astonishing, and the storytelling already seems much more coherent compared to coven. Congratulations Murphy and Falchuk, you did it!
  14. eddyallnight
    Oct 29, 2014
    10
    I'm in love with this season so far. The freaking Clown , Jessica Lange, Sarah Paulson, it's just the whole show. They deserve an Emmy!!! I was always like the walking dead or American Horror Story and now I realize, definitely American Horror Story. It's never getting boring!!
  15. atherezo
    Oct 10, 2014
    10
    I find clowns scary as hell. Can't wait for more! What about the David Bowie musical number? This is classic horror, mind blowing. I don't see how anyone can find it cliche and a waste of time.
  16. wafihabib
    Oct 9, 2014
    10
    I just now this season is gonna be awesome! The first episode is already intriguing and it was the best premiere episode of any season. Also because Twisty is the scariest AHS antagonist yet!
  17. witchyseattle
    Nov 3, 2014
    9
    I Think Season 4 is going to be great. It is after all only the 4th episode and the characters and story lines are just starting to unfold. I found the clown creepy and sad. I am looking forward for to the continuing development of the plot and how the characters evolved. So far I find the it interesting. It reminds me of the X-File episode "Humbug" which is also set in Florida amongI Think Season 4 is going to be great. It is after all only the 4th episode and the characters and story lines are just starting to unfold. I found the clown creepy and sad. I am looking forward for to the continuing development of the plot and how the characters evolved. So far I find the it interesting. It reminds me of the X-File episode "Humbug" which is also set in Florida among the Freak-show regulars. Keep up the good work.… Expand
  18. thetvreviewman
    Nov 4, 2014
    10
    This fourth season of American Horror Story is titled "Freak Show." This season deals with, you guessed it, FREAKS! Set in the 1950s in Florida in one of the last standing Freakshows this season involves human oddities, dark backstories, con artists with terrible motives, and one **** scary ass clown and his creepy assistant Dandy!
    This season is very strong so far because it gives us the    This fourth season of American Horror Story is titled "Freak Show." This season deals with, you guessed it, FREAKS! Set in the 1950s in Florida in one of the last standing Freakshows this season involves human oddities, dark backstories, con artists with terrible motives, and one **** scary ass clown and his creepy assistant Dandy!
    This season is very strong so far because it gives us the human emotions of the freaks being left out and feeling like they don't belong, while still giving us spine tingling chills and nightmares.    … Expand
  19. AmauriR
    Oct 26, 2014
    10
    otima serie otimos atores queria a taissa mas reconheço q a serie continua boa vamos ver se supera asylum mas ate agr esta otima a série e ja bateu recordes de audiencias
  20. majid92
    Oct 23, 2014
    10
    Episode 3 of season 4 review:

    Obviously, nothing can beat this anthology series. it's just too beautiful and amazing. No tv-show could ever bring a good horror to your tv like Amercan Horror Story. Last episode was simply over the top amazing. I don't know what made this episode so perfect. Is it Jessica Lange singing a Lana Del Rey song? or is it the truly eccentric and astonishing new    Episode 3 of season 4 review:

    Obviously, nothing can beat this anthology series. it's just too beautiful and amazing. No tv-show could ever bring a good horror to your tv like Amercan Horror Story. Last episode was simply over the top amazing. I don't know what made this episode so perfect. Is it Jessica Lange singing a Lana Del Rey song? or is it the truly eccentric and astonishing new character; Edward Merdork? And the list goes on! I think every moment of episode three was beautifully done! Can't wait for more.

    Majid Al-Ansari    … Expand
  21. willlol
    Oct 8, 2014
    10
    Por mais que seja difícil de assistir, por se tratar de temas delicados e mostrar a sociedade daquela época como realmente era com relação ás pessoas com anormalidades, essa temporada promete ser bastante agonizante.
  22. kris2fur
    Jan 26, 2015
    3
    Worst American horror story yet.
    This series detracts from the previous ones even the coven which was a step in a different direction.
    Towards the end it reminded me of the horrible end seasons of sons of anarchy just death, senseless death, repayed with senseless death. The only thing that made this even a horror story was the ominous spirit and the clown. With out them this could    Worst American horror story yet.
    This series detracts from the previous ones even the coven which was a step in a different direction.
    Towards the end it reminded me of the horrible end seasons of sons of anarchy just death, senseless death, repayed with senseless death.
    The only thing that made this even a horror story was the ominous spirit and the clown.
    With out them this could barely be considered a horror story.
    Why is metacritic fuelled by fanboys? User scores mean nothing everyone who liked it gives it a ten no matter what and everyone who hated it gives it a zero. This is destroying metacritic.
    If this is Jessica Langes last season you wasted her. She has played better roles in the previous series.
    I liked seeing the softer side of the axeman or the carpenter that was good.
    Other than that I really look forward to flipper boy being an evil character… again.
    Hopefully we can get back to the horror roots and get some actual wrap up of the series, maybe even some decent cross connect between the series.
    I honestly would not recommend this series over the others, ever.    … Expand
  23. chidime
    Dec 25, 2014
    4
    First off let me say I am such a big fan of AHS. When everyone was quick to dismiss it initially, I stuck with it and even convinced others to watch it. However, i am sorely disappointed in this season. What made AHS such a thrill to watch was the randomness of things. You could never ever predict what was going to happen. For the first 2 seasons, I can say I was never ever bored. ThereFirst off let me say I am such a big fan of AHS. When everyone was quick to dismiss it initially, I stuck with it and even convinced others to watch it. However, i am sorely disappointed in this season. What made AHS such a thrill to watch was the randomness of things. You could never ever predict what was going to happen. For the first 2 seasons, I can say I was never ever bored. There was always something scary, something out of this world going on. the writers had a vision for a one-of-a-kind show and they stuck with it. However, from Season 3 things began to change. They decided they wanted to appeal to teenagers or so and started to add sappy storylines removing the key thing that made them so irresistible in the first place - unpredictable goriness. I thought okay maybe its just that season and maybe they just wanted a more toned-down season for some reason. However, season 4 is just absolutely terrible. Very boring, conventional horror you can see coming from a mile away, very predictable. I am so disappointed. I can't even finish this season. I hope for season 5 they correct their mistakes and go back to what made them so popular in the first place rather than trying to attract more teenagers.… Expand
  24. xenojoey
    Feb 1, 2015
    0
    I hoped it would get better after watching each episode. As I was hoping, the season was over. All I can say is that these writers need to be replaced for season 5
  25. Tywalker
    Oct 12, 2014
    10
    Whether you love gory hack-n-slash, crime mystery and suspense or physiologically disturbing variety of horror films, this freak-show is sure to have enough acts to please a broad range of audiences.

    This season's theme is fear of one's own body -- fear of oneself. Fear of not being desirable or embraced by society when we become worn or lack normality. Jessica Lange's performance is    Whether you love gory hack-n-slash, crime mystery and suspense or physiologically disturbing variety of horror films, this freak-show is sure to have enough acts to please a broad range of audiences.

    This season's theme is fear of one's own body -- fear of oneself. Fear of not being desirable or embraced by society when we become worn or lack normality. Jessica Lange's performance is eerily reminiscent of Bette Davis in Baby Jane. The premiere leaves you wanting more, despite a lingering feeling of misery.

    The premiere does the craft of introducing the numerous characters, themes, and plots into a single episode coherently. The pacing is sharp, accelerating the introduction of plot and characters, and slowing down to allow the audience to experience the most profound and psychologically disturbing moments.

    As per usual, there is no clear protagonist or antagonist. Though, this season is primed unlike any other season to blur the ethical and moral judgments of each character to demonstrate the human ambiguity. Even "freaks" are capable of being victimized and victimizing others, as well as showing compassion and acceptance. In that sense, I was glad to see the "freaks" not being placed on a pedestal nor demonized.

    Usually series stunt their growth, recycling the same characters and plot, desperately seeking to reinvent them each time. America Horror Story has the unique ability to recreate the themes, plot, and characters in order to create a new and distinct show. This season of American Horror Story, transcends its predecessors in every way -- that includes, Asylum, which I consider to be one of the very best seasons of television.    … Expand
  26. datass
    Oct 8, 2014
    10
    With how bad season three ended I was surprised how good the premier of the new season of American Horror Story was. Really pumped for the rest of the season.
  27. nicholasbert
    Oct 9, 2014
    8
    After the let down (at least for me) of season 3, which I thought was weak and not scary at all, especially compared to seasons 1 and 2, season 4 prospects to be much more entertaining and is off to a good start.

    We've got the usual Jessica Lange in a difficult role, apparently, but she's a tried actress and I'm sure she'll manage. As for the other regulars, they don't appear to be that    After the let down (at least for me) of season 3, which I thought was weak and not scary at all, especially compared to seasons 1 and 2, season 4 prospects to be much more entertaining and is off to a good start.

    We've got the usual Jessica Lange in a difficult role, apparently, but she's a tried actress and I'm sure she'll manage. As for the other regulars, they don't appear to be that changed... we'll have to see.

    As usual, great photography and great directing, some original camera work, and eerie promises for episodes next! Hopefully it won't be a downer like Coven was.    … Expand
  28. israeldorneles
    Oct 22, 2014
    10
    Amazing, just amazing. Coven was a huge letdown for me, so I wasn't expecting that. Glad it's back on track. Asylum is not just the best AHS season yet but it's one of the best season I've seen in any TV show and I'm feeling Freak Show will surpass it.

    EDITED: Where all this hate came from? It's pointless.
  29. MyaMarisse
    Oct 21, 2014
    1
    I think since season 2 this idea of introducing "musicals" is just out of line, this season "Freak Show" seems like its going to become a "Freak Glee"... Im not even bothering in watching another chapter... listening the 2 heads girl singing "Criminal" was enough.. bye bye AHS
  30. sahuet
    Oct 23, 2014
    0
    NO, NO, NO...

    I am shocked by how many people think this season is so terrific, scary, mind blowing, etc.

    I am a huge fan of the series, but this season is so cliche!

    And the clown, really?!

    Watch Vulgar and you will see a scary clown story!!!
  31. MickMiko
    Oct 10, 2014
    10
    Definitivamente esta temporada viene muy buena , el payaso , cada personaje viene muy bien y de verdad que no puedo esperar mas , s extrañara a lily rabe y taissa pero vaya que la temporada sera de lo mejor !
  32. Slysister
    Jan 22, 2015
    2
    Where did the horror go in this season of AHS? It is not scary, creepy or unsettling one bit. There is not even any sick or twisted humor like in the previous seasons. Even the sex stuff which is suppose to be shocking is lame and tame. The plot-lines were tired and predictable. The dialogue made a joke out of great acting. I could not take Elsa or Dandy serious for one second. And someoneWhere did the horror go in this season of AHS? It is not scary, creepy or unsettling one bit. There is not even any sick or twisted humor like in the previous seasons. Even the sex stuff which is suppose to be shocking is lame and tame. The plot-lines were tired and predictable. The dialogue made a joke out of great acting. I could not take Elsa or Dandy serious for one second. And someone thought they were Baz Lurhmann this season, having the characters burst into modern song all of a sudden. But while Baz is a master at his craft, this felt like I was watching the Rocky Horror Picture Show minus any wink to the audience. The best part of this whole season was the opening credits, and yes I watched til the final episode just hoping something redeeming would happen.… Expand
  33. walker52
    Dec 20, 2014
    10
    Amazing Season!! And I just saw episode 10, I loved it so much. I couldn't stop crying.
    That's why Pepper just got a new fan /// me!!
    AHS will always be the real and only Horror-Show!!
    I love the twins as well, and hell, of course my Dandy, for me his one of the most interesting characters on that show!
  34. sweetD
    Oct 19, 2014
    3
    AWFUL!!! POORLY WRITTEN!!! AND JUST FLAT OUT BORING!!! I was willing to suffer through the paint-by-numbers dialogue, but a Fiona Apple inspired Mosh Pit...yes...a Mosh pit breaks out...is just wildly unacceptable. The writing for AHS has been suffering and this season is a HUGE SIGN that its time to put this show out of its misery!!!
  35. andarial6670
    Dec 10, 2014
    3
    This season feels weak compared to its predecessors. The pacing is horrible and most of the earlier episodes are just character development. We're on episode 8 as I'm watching this and there's still no clear picture of where this plot wants to go. I understand that there's supposed to be this huge underlying connection between all the seasons of AHS but with how bad this season is so farThis season feels weak compared to its predecessors. The pacing is horrible and most of the earlier episodes are just character development. We're on episode 8 as I'm watching this and there's still no clear picture of where this plot wants to go. I understand that there's supposed to be this huge underlying connection between all the seasons of AHS but with how bad this season is so far and how mediocre season 3 already was, I am really not expecting much anymore. It's not really scary, interesting or well written. It just seems like a chore to watch.… Expand
  36. tmclain1
    Dec 11, 2014
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I was highly looking forward to this season being a fan of the show. However, I've been disappointed. I don't think they should have killed off Twisty the clown as soon as they did. He was so mysterious and then out of nowhere they just tell you everything and kill him. It gets really corny at parts too with over the top dramatic conversations. I don't like Jessica Lange's character Elsa. She acts like she loves the freaks but really she just wants money. Characters keep dying off every episode and they act like it's no big deal. They haven't even had an actual freak show and the season more than halfway over. Evan Peter's character is so whiny and it's annoying. I get it that bad things have happened to him, but I'm tired of seeing him cry. And Dandy. This psychopath is the only thing that makes me tune in. I think he's an annoying man child but at least his character has some depth and is going places.… Expand
  37. Brozzzzi
    Jan 22, 2015
    1
    American Horror Story has lost whatever mystique it once held. Season 1 and 2 seemed ripe with possibility. Creative and awesome. Things since then have gone downhill to the convoluted, disorganized and absolutely idiotic show that it has become. Like many of his shows, Ryan Murphy starts with a great idea then loses it half way through (Nip/Tuck). Instead of sketching out the season’sAmerican Horror Story has lost whatever mystique it once held. Season 1 and 2 seemed ripe with possibility. Creative and awesome. Things since then have gone downhill to the convoluted, disorganized and absolutely idiotic show that it has become. Like many of his shows, Ryan Murphy starts with a great idea then loses it half way through (Nip/Tuck). Instead of sketching out the season’s storyline, it feels like he and his writers improv each new episode – and turn a blind eye to story continuity. In “Freak Show” Elsa has wooden legs, but in some scenes is seen wearing a skirt with no prosthetic legs. One minute a clown killer is on the loose, then a freaks museum, then a spoiled billionaire, then suddenly Elsa is on the hit-list, then suddenly she’s absolutely famous, then its all over? There are soooo many inconsistencies
    it was tough not to cringe through most of this season, and
    Coven.

    It’s a shame that with such an amazingly talented cast, Murphy makes them perform the most eye rolling of scenes. Not to mention this last season “Freak Show” seemed to be a who’s who of Murphy’s gay besties, each having short, pointless cameos.

    If by somemiracle Lang decides to stay another season, I hope they methodically sit down and come up with a clear, original story with less twists and turns and more substance.

    I give American Horror Story – Freak Show an F- grade. Not because the cast wasn’t amazing, but because the writing and story were beyond repair. (Much like Coven and Murphy's other work)    … Expand
  38. BogKid
    Oct 11, 2014
    8
    I have watched a few episodes of American Horror Show in its earlier incarnations and I have been repelled by both its content and its throw-everything-at-the-wall style. I decided to give this "freaks" series a shot and I watched the first episode electing to be quickly grossed out by the exploitation of the unfortunate and by crummy production values.

    Have I been wrong all along or    I have watched a few episodes of American Horror Show in its earlier incarnations and I have been repelled by both its content and its throw-everything-at-the-wall style. I decided to give this "freaks" series a shot and I watched the first episode electing to be quickly grossed out by the exploitation of the unfortunate and by crummy production values.

    Have I been wrong all along or is a new person with cinematic talent and some sensitivity in charge this year? The freaks, mostly make-up and/or computer modification are portrayed as largely decent, caring people. The outside world is insensitive, crass, and dangerous. I especially enjoyed Ms. Lang's performance of the David Bowie song. Weird and oddly affecting at the same time. I told my DVR to keep on recording.    … Expand
  39. Monstrosus
    Oct 10, 2014
    2
    American horror story.... yeah right more like American gross out story. There are 5 things that define this series

    1. Portray women as perfect beings and if they aren't perfect it's probably because of a guy. 2. Demonize (white) men every chance it gets 3. Make up the story as they go along 4. Social justice warriors 5. No horror what so ever unless killing someone with your    American horror story.... yeah right more like American gross out story. There are 5 things that define this series

    1. Portray women as perfect beings and if they aren't perfect it's probably because of a guy.
    2. Demonize (white) men every chance it gets
    3. Make up the story as they go along
    4. Social justice warriors
    5. No horror what so ever unless killing someone with your genitals counts as horror these days.

    First season was all about the guy who cheated on his wife and tried to make up for it the entire season, while his wife is portrayed as the perfect woman who didn't do anything wrong. And of course the white male psychopath who did a school shooting.

    Second season already showed their horrible writing, and they really had no idea what the end goal was. Of course as in season 1, you have the male psychopath who enjoyed killing women this time, why can't it be a female psychopath? Oh that's right females can't be psychopaths only white men are capable of becoming one.
    1 male actor was a "good" guy who was surrounded by female do gooders. starting to see a trend here?
    As their sjw crusade continues naturally they turned this season all about lesbians.

    3rd season was a complete cluster of bad plots. What really grinned my gears was that all men were servants of women they didn't even try to hide it, that it is a feminist show this time. It starts off with a drunk spoiled brat who got "raped" by a rugby team and got butthurt over it, and thought the perfect punishment was to kill them all by exploding their bus, cause of course "rape" is worse than death by feminists. as in season 2 there was one good boy who didn't rape her and because he died in the bus explosion, they turned him into a Frankenstein creature, who basically was the witches loyal dog the entire series. then you have the male white butler who is naturally a psychopath. In this season the sjw theme was racism and feminism.

    fourth season I couldn't even endure to watch the entire first episode. The cliches are present once again. I can already see the sjw trend, that you need to accept ANYONE no matter how moronic they act or look except for white people of course who are naturally psychopaths like the clown this time. Once again the same male actor who is the good guy, surrounded by the SAME female actors who's acting starts to feel forced. The music was annoying and badly edited I couldn't even hear the actor voices because the music was playing the entire episode. The badly done erotic scenes were just cringe worthy,

    This tv show is sjw propaganda at it's finest. if they truly were pro diversity they wouldn't make the same cliches over and over again. This show is racist towards white people and abuse every stereotype towards white men. while promoting sjw every chance it gets.

    I give it a two because I enjoyed season 1 somewhat until i realized what the tv show was really all about.    … Expand
  40. dna5442
    Oct 10, 2014
    5
    The movie Identity comes to mind after watching the premier. A little integration may be at play in this season's plot Lange's character still wants to be a star and Peter's character is still angry and over sexed which are the same roles they have played in previous seasons. Paulson's character is the only new and interesting idea. I hope the story becomes more interesting. I supposeThe movie Identity comes to mind after watching the premier. A little integration may be at play in this season's plot Lange's character still wants to be a star and Peter's character is still angry and over sexed which are the same roles they have played in previous seasons. Paulson's character is the only new and interesting idea. I hope the story becomes more interesting. I suppose time will tell.… Expand
  41. michelobannon
    Oct 28, 2014
    0
    I've watched this show from this its beginning, I am utterly disappointed with this season. Glee is dead, there is no reason AHS should have singing for an empty tent, or at all really. What a sad rip off of the classic "Freaks". And now there's Lord Voldemort!?! Ryan Murphy just stop it. I had a bad feeling when I heard you were directing so I guess my instincts were right.
  42. slappycider
    Jan 21, 2015
    5
    It was a slow season. Started off slow, ending with a literal bang. The second half of the season is something to marvel, but sadly... it doesn't quite redeem it for me. The whole season has just felt empty, almost pointless.
  43. ariel84
    Oct 10, 2014
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. this is the first season i've watched. not as enthralled as i thought i would be. although the show obviously owes a tremendous debt to tod browning's film, it's not nearly as disturbing. maybe it's the technicolor coupled with the highly stylized filming. doesn't feel like it's really set in the early '50s. the macabre murdering clown is an element that seems superfluous and excessive. if the story only focused on sarah paulson, it would be far more riveting. she's the real star.… Expand
  44. OpinionatedGuy
    Jan 25, 2015
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The fourth season of American Horror Story had a lot of promise at the start but it got weak at the end.

    Its main problem was the plot and the way how it was narrated. In this season’s plot, a group of freak show performers have to survive the odds. It doesn’t sound exciting at all but that’s not the real problem. The real problem was that the writers don’t know how to narrate its plot into a 13 episode story. The strongest point of the plot was the antagonist of the first half of the season named Twisty the Clown. But when he was killed off in the middle of the season, the antagonist title is given to Dandy Mott which he showed a lot of promise to be a much more scarier villain than Twisty the Clown but he ended up being a spoiled brat.

    The nowhere going plot also affected the character development this season. Like Dandy Mott, a lot of characters showed a lot of promise that they could be complex written characters but they ended up being underdeveloped thanks to its shallow plot narrative.

    The shining light of Freak Show was its acting performance. I would like to highlight Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Finn Wittrock, Angela Bassett, Kathy Bates, John Carroll Lynch and of course, Jessica Lange. It’s sad that they’re not given much to do with their characters but at least they tried their very best on what’s given to them.

    Another good thing about Freak Show was the way how it was directed and shot. The cinematography really feels like it’s set in the 50s.

    Despite everything that’s wrong with it, I still enjoyed watching Freak Show and that’s why I rated this season a bit higher than I should have but its flaws cannot go unnoticed. I hope they improve its story telling next season and even if they didn’t, they better make it entertaining at least.    … Expand
  45. tods
    Feb 7, 2015
    5
    So the quality of each season has steadily declined from the first in my opinion. A sense of scare or surprise definitely seems to have been almost lost this time round so calling it horror is just not right as there barely seems to be anything frightening at all this season. However i do feel some of the reviews have been slightly harsh to rate the whole season before seeing its end andSo the quality of each season has steadily declined from the first in my opinion. A sense of scare or surprise definitely seems to have been almost lost this time round so calling it horror is just not right as there barely seems to be anything frightening at all this season. However i do feel some of the reviews have been slightly harsh to rate the whole season before seeing its end and to that end my score is somewhat higher.… Expand
  46. imthenoob
    Feb 23, 2016
    4
    They took a pretty interesting premise and ruined it. Once again, No real plot or character development. They killed off the main villain 4 episodes in instead of keeping him for the entire season, Twisty was the only reason it was worth watching and killing him off so soon sort of ruined that. There were bits and pieces in the later episodes that were good but as a whole, This seasonThey took a pretty interesting premise and ruined it. Once again, No real plot or character development. They killed off the main villain 4 episodes in instead of keeping him for the entire season, Twisty was the only reason it was worth watching and killing him off so soon sort of ruined that. There were bits and pieces in the later episodes that were good but as a whole, This season wasn't that good.… Expand
  47. Danil
    Oct 12, 2015
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Not as horrible as Coven. Still it is a complete mess of a story. Apparently the writers didn't bother to keep track of what they were writing. In one episode the kidnapped girl gets dragged back to the clown by Dandy, the kid sees him as well. The next episode they can't figure out who the second clown was. One episode the strongman tries to kill the strongwoman and the freaks want to execute him. The next episode the strongman and the freaks run around the woods together searching for Ma Petite. Also rather than crying about their lives the bearded woman could just shave her stupid beard and the lobster boy could get an operation.
    I bet it was a torture for Lange to play that cheesy over the top German mistress. No wonder she decided to leave.    … Expand
  48. potatoman222
    Jul 17, 2017
    6
    Com personagens pouco desenvolvidos e narrativa problemática, American Horror Story nos entrega aqui seu pior ano ate agora. Como de se esperar, as atuações estão fantasticas como sempre.
  49. gmonster320
    May 30, 2015
    9
    "American Horror Story" continues to be one of the most creative shows on television for several reasons:

    1. Ryan Murphy may have single handedly revived horror as a genre on television (for which I am immensely grateful). 2. It is also the first to use the same actors playing different character in different stories each season. 3. It showcases "actresses of a certain page" that    "American Horror Story" continues to be one of the most creative shows on television for several reasons:

    1. Ryan Murphy may have single handedly revived horror as a genre on television (for which I am immensely grateful).
    2. It is also the first to use the same actors playing different character in different stories each season.
    3. It showcases "actresses of a certain page" that have been largely overlooked by television (unless they're playing someone's grandmother).
    4. It has introduced us to a number of delightful characters that are still making their rounds on the internet. Some of my favorites are: Pepper, Dandy, Madame LaLaurie, Spalding and Lana (Banana) Winters.
    5. It is a pleasure to watch these great actors chew up the scenery and each other. I'd be happy watching Jessica Lange, Kathy Bates, Angela Bassett and Denis O'Hare read the phone book. I am so in awe of their talent.
    6. We are also introduced to some excellent actors that we might not have known. I was not familiar with Sarah Paulson previously and now I simply L-O-V-E her. Evan Peters is also a standout. Naomi Grossman as Pepper is sheer perfection. She is the only character to appear in two different seasons. Danny Huston was also perfect as the "Axeman".
    7. Sure the show is horror but its also super campy. There's always a wink and a nod to what's going on.
    8. It injects real historical characters into the show (while of course taking artistic liberties). Madame LaLarie really existed (and she treated her servants horribly) as did Marie Laveau. "Axe Man" was a real serial killer in New Orleans (who was never arrested).
    9. AHS says a lot about gender, race, sexuality and societal norms (without beating us over the head with it).

    For those not familiar with the seasons, here's a basic overview:

    Season 1 (which later became known as "Murder House") follows a couple and their daughter when they move into a house with a very checked past. I wont go into detail but let's just say its really crowded in there.
    Season 2 is known as "Asylum". This remains my favorite season. It follows the lives of several patients/staff at a mental hospital in the 1960s. There are far too many story lines to list. Just be glad you were never in Briarcliffe.
    Season 3 is known as "Coven". It takes on witchcraft (with a group of witches in New Orleans).
    Season 4 is known as "Freak Show". It follows a traveling freak show which lands in 1950's Florida. This remains my second favorite season.

    My only criticisms of "AHS" is the structure of the story lines and the finales. SO MANY separate stories are added each year that there's no way to cover all of them. This leaves some to just quietly disappear with no explanation. The finale's are also a bit of a let down. Usually the third episode from the last is what should have been the finale. I've gotten used to it but the story would be much more impactful if they finished up strong.

    All in all though, I have enjoyed "AHS" immensely and cant wait till the next season to what fascinating new characters we'll meet. If you like horror and camp and havent seen "AHS" I highly recommend it. And if you dont watch it, we'll send the "Axeman" after you.    … Expand
  50. Kaprawiec
    May 29, 2015
    9
    The story of a clown is just avesome. Its a shame it ends the way it ends and the time it ends (dont want to spoil anything). Because if this season was only about the clown - then hell i would give it 10/10. Damn this is the first scary clown I have seen in my life and thanks to AHS:S4 i can see why people are scared of these bastards :D.
    But enough of clown who should have separate    The story of a clown is just avesome. Its a shame it ends the way it ends and the time it ends (dont want to spoil anything). Because if this season was only about the clown - then hell i would give it 10/10. Damn this is the first scary clown I have seen in my life and thanks to AHS:S4 i can see why people are scared of these bastards :D.
    But enough of clown who should have separate movie maybe? lets go through rest of the show. Its also ok. Nearly as good as season 2. This time around Im getting a bit tired of Lange, because she play almost same role all over again (though I like her german accent). Rest of the cast is again really good, especially lobster boy and his hot girlfriend and the rich clown psycho. Plot is also really good so I can honestly recommend this.    … Expand
  51. jackaz15
    Oct 11, 2018
    5
    American Horror Story Freak Show’s bizarre elements and unique cast were squandered by monotonous characters and lethargic writing, which relied on themes rather than genuinely chilling narratives. (5/10)
  52. MattBrady99
    Mar 10, 2015
    8
    Dandy: "I hate you, I hate you, I hate you, I hate you".

    Cleaning made: "I hate you too boy". American Horror Story for my point of view isn't just a show with loud jumps scars or cliché characters, no it's a TV show that only shows graphic stories that always end up having a good ending or a bad ending to those in the show, and it sometimes always end up bad for them. A quick    Dandy: "I hate you, I hate you, I hate you, I hate you".

    Cleaning made: "I hate you too boy".

    American Horror Story for my point of view isn't just a show with loud jumps scars or cliché characters, no it's a TV show that only shows graphic stories that always end up having a good ending or a bad ending to those in the show, and it sometimes always end up bad for them.

    A quick review to all the 1-3 season until I talk about Freak Show, just to get my thoughts on the previous seasons: AHS season one in my opinion started off okay, I'm not saying it's bad, just okay. But season two is when it picked up for me. Season Three was good, but not has good has season 2, but still overall good. Now for Freak Show and I got to say it's far far better then season one and season 3.

    What I liked so much about Freak Show was how the show dives in into that gritty, dirty and uneasy feel to it that the 1932 film Freaks (Which is what the show is borrowing) never had. Just add in a Patrick Bateman look a like and add in a terrifying looking clown and you totally get a true horror story.

    Jessica Lange is probably the best actress working today and she fit's right in this show, basically shes like a queen of this TV show, because she can pretty much play any role and nail it and here she dose once again. The character that she plays Elsa Mars is kind of a mix bag for me. One minute I feel sorry for her and the next minute I hate her for her actions in the show. Has I said before mix bag character, but Jessica Lange played the character well, I got all the torment, the hard work of trying to get her fame and yeah she can by selfish at times trying to get that fame but it shows how she really wants to be loved by people around the world and it only took about loads of deaths to do that.

    The rest of the cast all did good and Finn Wittrock who played Dandy is a true rising star, because he played such a good copy and paste Patrick Bateman in this and he did great.

    For problems I have I only had some like: Neil Patrick Harries character started off great and I like the fact that his deeply crazy with his Chucky like doll and I wanted to see what will happen to his character but the way the show left his character felt like a cop out and a huge disappointment.

    The final episode of Freak Show didn't really end very well just like Coven. It's not the worst finale like Dexter or True Blood but it did left me a bit disappointed that the fact the show had to end like that.

    Overall Freak Show is a solid season for me. It may have it's ups and downs between episodes and that, but beside that AHS fans have a lot to like with this and coming from guy who isn't a huge fan of the show, I enjoyed it.    … Expand
  53. LilScience
    Oct 24, 2015
    5
    O Freak Show realmente não foi uma das melhores temporadas do AHS,eu esperava muito mais dela pois foi a despedida de Jessica Lange,que é uma ótima atriz de longe.
    Não podemos focar em nenhum momento da série que digamos é o melhor,pra mim o melhor foi quando foram levar a Ethel Darling (Kathy Bates) para o além (pra morte bem eu não entendi muito),mas o fato foi que a série estava muito    O Freak Show realmente não foi uma das melhores temporadas do AHS,eu esperava muito mais dela pois foi a despedida de Jessica Lange,que é uma ótima atriz de longe.
    Não podemos focar em nenhum momento da série que digamos é o melhor,pra mim o melhor foi quando foram levar a Ethel Darling (Kathy Bates) para o além (pra morte bem eu não entendi muito),mas o fato foi que a série estava muito sem um meio,digo oque é importante na série? O espetáculo? O garoto mimado? Mas de fato o momento mais legal foi quando o garoto mimado morreu,quer dizer os integrantes do Freak Show matou que foi ótimo mas de resto não achei uma temporada tão interessante.    … Expand
  54. Evic21
    Sep 7, 2015
    1
    What can I say, there is no specific plot except a bunch of sub-plots that don't connect with one another. I felt nothing for any of the characters, the main themes were predictable and obvious and I just found parts of it more comical than scary. Don't even waste you time with this season.
  55. diegonelli
    Jun 2, 2017
    9
    DEFINITELY THE BEST AHS SEASON. Most people I know dislike it for some reason but it is sooo good and unique. The end got me crying for real. I really like how they casted people with physical illnesses/disabilities rather than photoshopping normal people, like most films/shows do.
  56. vitorthehuman
    Dec 21, 2015
    10
    Is the most dramatic season of all the others. Failed in trying to develop the right way, but Jessica Lange's performance delighted me, made me smile and cry. It is also my third favorite season.
  57. perkjl
    Jan 5, 2016
    10
    Freakshow deserves more credit than it deserves. Especially compared to the recent season, Hotel. I thought it went out with a bang given that it was Jessica Lange's last season. I loved the circus theme, the characters, and all the twisted/emotional dynamics that connected with everyone. Underrated.
  58. ninosan
    Aug 6, 2016
    7
    The eerie atmosphere of the Freak Show mixed with the twisted world it resides in, makes for an amazing ride.
    This was by far the season with the most interesting characters, each with their own past and reasons for acting the way they do. Their overall typical evilness and insanity is mostly justified.
    Watch it if you want a very "freaky" ride. (not sorry for the pun)
  59. reviewfrom19842
    Jun 22, 2017
    7
    American Horror Story: Freak Show is not the best season of the show but it's over all pretty good .
  60. WorldofLucky
    Feb 3, 2018
    8
    Now we are getting back into the wheelhouse of horror. Some scary things, some bizarre things, and some good acting by everyone means this is a definitely better season.

    This story about a freak show run by Elsa Mars, a German woman who leads the group in Jupiter Florida in the 1950s. The story is about the Freakshow itself, the new people they meet and the subsequent background    Now we are getting back into the wheelhouse of horror. Some scary things, some bizarre things, and some good acting by everyone means this is a definitely better season.

    This story about a freak show run by Elsa Mars, a German woman who leads the group in Jupiter Florida in the 1950s.

    The story is about the Freakshow itself, the new people they meet and the subsequent background stories, a murdering clown, a possible second clown, a summoned creature and references to two other seasons of American Horror Story.

    The acting is very good, there are several main characters of people who are unique, and there is Michael Chiklis (from the Shield and the Commish). There is some scary parts, and a lot of trying to figure out where a person fits in.

    My only part I didn’t like was Sarah Paulson’s role. She was an excellent actress, but trying to play both twins of a Siamese twin, just didn’t work for me. However, it wasn’t Ms. Paulson’s fault, she did well, I just couldn’t buy her character for some reason.

    Pros: Even better then the first three seasons, the story is fairly unique, the characters are very entertaining and Jessica Lange can sing really well.

    Cons: The Siamese Sister bit didn’t work for me.

    I am looking forward to Season 5, where we get to meet Lady Gaga in a role.    … Expand
  61. Felindie
    Jul 15, 2019
    6
    'Freak Show' didn't bring the best of 'American Horror Story', the whole idea never was convincing.
  62. MarceloPaz
    Oct 6, 2018
    7
    visually well-crafted, musically attractive, plus the stories again do not develop as well as they should be.
  63. Dsros96
    Oct 29, 2018
    4
    This was hard to watch. Uninteresting plot and random plot twists that don't make sense. Lack of supernatural elements. Overused musical shows. Jessica Lange plays the same role for the 4th time.
  64. Daniel_N
    Jan 17, 2023
    9
    American Horror Story: Freak Show blends in most of the classic horror tropes and pulls its strings very carefully. The episodes "Pink Cupcakes" and "Bullseye" may be some of the worst episodes of the series, but despite these fillers, Freak Show is more than what it seems.
  65. Littlest_Red
    Jun 28, 2023
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Dare I say that the best character was killed off in episode four (mind you his reincarnation is still good). This season makes a return to grotesque less present in last season. Elsa Mars (Jessica Lange) is a deceptive ring leader with a wild backstory and a strong willpower. The feuds between the main characters are also on full display in this powder keg of a freak show, with other machinations from Stanley (Denis O'hare) and also the police coming into play. Dandy Mott (Finn Wittrock) is the best character for me this season, and is done so Campily. Whilst his mum Gloria (Frances Conroy) is constantly appeasing him - "but Daaandy?¡!"… Expand
  66. eduardoporto
    Aug 16, 2023
    9
    Uma das minhas temporada favoritas, junto com a 3 e a 9. O que mais me atraí é o fato de ser circense.

Awards & Rankings

76
#76 Best TV Season of 2014
24
#24 Most Discussed TV Season of 2014
36
#36 Most Shared TV Season of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
69

Generally favorable reviews - based on 19 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 19
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 19
  3. Negative: 0 out of 19
  1. The Daily Beast
    Reviewed by: Kevin Fallon
    Oct 9, 2014
    70
    It’s hardly [his crowning achievement], lacking the aggressive whimsy and emboldened storytelling that’s made him the pied piper to a nation of TV-watching weirdos, mocked and ignored. But there’s a seriousness with which he’s given this first Freak Show outing that actually piques more of a curiosity than trotting out the expected onslaught of spooks, one-liners, and cheekiness could’ve possibly be done at this point in the American Horror Story run.
    Read full review
  2. Under The Radar
    Reviewed by: Zach Hollwedel
    Oct 9, 2014
    75
    Freak Show starts off strong, offering more than just a taste of the spooky, bloody, quirky season to come.
    Read full review
  3. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
    Reviewed by: Rob Owen
    Oct 8, 2014
    50
    The over-long season premiere--it's 63 minutes without commercials, so expect it to run close to 90 minutes on air; set yoru DVR accordingly--feels disjointed and the characters seem underdeveloped.
    Read full review
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