Despite his general hesitation toward streaming platforms, acclaimed director Quentin Tarantino has openly praised Mike Flanagan’s Netflix horror series The Haunting of Hill House as his favorite. Tarantino’s admiration highlights the strong impact the series has had since its release, while its sequel, The Haunting of Bly Manor, is seen by many as an even more compelling follow-up.
Quentin Tarantino’s Unexpected Streaming Pick
Quentin Tarantino is well known for his preference for traditional cinema over streaming media, yet he made an exception for Mike Flanagan’s The Haunting of Hill House. In an interview with The Jerusalem Post, Tarantino declared,
“My favorite series, with no competition, is The Haunting of Hill House.”
This endorsement confirms the show’s status as a standout piece in the horror genre that transcends typical streaming content.
The series quickly gained a devoted following thanks to its intricate storytelling and impressive performances from its cast. Its success helped solidify Mike Flanagan’s reputation as a distinct director who brings depth and emotional weight to horror storytelling.
What Sets The Haunting of Hill House Apart in the Horror Genre
Adapted loosely from Shirley Jackson’s novel, the series took sizeable creative liberties that allowed Flanagan to craft a unique story focused on the psychological and emotional consequences of supernatural occurrences. Rather than relying on graphic violence or jump scares, the show emphasizes suspense and the inner turmoil of its characters, exploring how the paranormal affects their mental states.
This approach resonated strongly with viewers and critics alike, leading to a 93% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Its blend of family drama and horror reinvigorated the genre, offering something more contemplative and haunting than traditional scary shows.
The blockbuster reception encouraged Flanagan to create The Haunting of Bly Manor, which, while featuring many of the same actors, introduced a fresh narrative and deeper character development.
Reasons Why The Haunting of Bly Manor Surpasses Its Predecessor
Released in 2020 as an indirect sequel, The Haunting of Bly Manor received mixed reviews when compared to the original series but is regarded by fans and critics for its superior storytelling in several respects. Where the first show concentrated heavily on family relationships, Bly Manor offered richer character arcs, diving into the backgrounds and motivations of its figures more thoroughly.
One of the series‘ highlights is the episode titled
“The Romance of Certain Old Clothes,”
which reveals the tragic backstory of the ghost haunting the manor. This narrative thread, inspired by Henry James’ short story, was skillfully woven into the season without distracting from the main plot, showcasing Flanagan’s skill in blending literary influences with his vision.
While Hill House excelled in creating a chilling atmosphere filled with fear, Bly Manor evokes a more profound emotional resonance by exploring themes of loss and love. Its approach to horror leaves the audience unsettled in a different, more introspective way.
Although Flanagan has stated that he does not plan to continue with another installment in the series, both productions stand as exemplary works in modern horror TV, offering stories that linger with viewers long after the credits roll.
The Enduring Legacy of Mike Flanagan’s Horror Series on Netflix
Mike Flanagan’s vision has redefined what horror television can achieve, merging psychological depth with supernatural thrills. Fans have welcomed both The Haunting of Hill House and The Haunting of Bly Manor with enthusiasm, acknowledging the director’s distinctive style and ability to tell emotionally complex tales.
Currently available on Netflix, both series continue to attract new viewers and spark discussions around the depiction of fear and trauma in horror storytelling. Tarantino’s recognition may also inspire others who typically avoid streaming platforms to explore these critically acclaimed shows firsthand.
As audiences await Flanagan’s next projects, his efforts remain a testament to the power of horror that moves beyond scares to touch on human experience, ensuring his works remain unforgettable entries in the genre.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Quentin Tarantino neurodivergent?
A. Famous filmmakers like Steve McQueen, David Lean, and Charlie Chaplin are known for being neurodivergent. Other well-known directors include Stan Brakhage, Stanley Kubrick, and Steven Spielberg. Quentin Tarantino, Martin Scorsese, and Alejandro G. Iñárritu are also recognized for their work and are identified as neurodivergent.
Q. Does Quentin Tarantino have a high IQ?
A. It is said that Tarantino has an IQ of 160. Despite this, he chose to leave high school early to follow his filmmaking dreams.
