Archive 81, a horror series that debuted on Netflix in 2022, has garnered attention for its compelling storytelling and atmospheric tension, drawing comparisons to the acclaimed works of Mike Flanagan. Known for his masterful adaptations of Stephen King‘s novels, including Doctor Sleep, Flanagan has built a reputation in the horror genre, particularly with projects like The Haunting of Hill House and The Haunting of Bly Manor. Although he was not directly involved in the making of Archive 81, the series reflects thematic elements and stylistic choices reminiscent of Flanagan’s work.
A Gripping Narrative with Dark Undertones
Based on the podcast created by Daniel Powell and Marc Sollinger, Archive 81 follows the story of Dan Turner, a man hired to restore a collection of tapes belonging to a graduate student named Melody Pendras. These tapes, however, are not ordinary; they are infested with a strange mold and document Melody’s investigation into the eerie inhabitants of an old apartment building. As Dan delves deeper into the tapes, the narrative shifts between his contemporary timeline and Melody’s experiences in 1994, gradually unveiling a horrifying past intertwined with a cult that worshipped a demonic entity.
The series has received critical acclaim, achieving an impressive 87% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and ranking among Netflix’s Top 10 during its release. Its success is attributed to its slow burn approach to horror, a hallmark of Flanagan’s storytelling style. This method allows the audience to engage with the characters and the mounting tension, culminating in a shocking cliffhanger that leaves viewers eager for more.
Thematic Depth and Strong Performances
Similar to Flanagan’s narratives, Archive 81 explores complex themes such as family trauma and the impact of past horrors. Melody’s backstory reveals her abandonment at a church, leaving her family history shrouded in mystery. Dan’s connection to Melody through his own family adds layers to the storyline, enhancing the emotional stakes as he becomes increasingly consumed by the tapes’ dark revelations.
The series also features notable performances, particularly from Mamoudou Athie and Dina Shihabi, who bring depth and nuance to their roles. Athie’s portrayal of Dan has opened doors for further opportunities in his career, leading to roles in major films like Jurassic World Dominion and Elemental.
Although Archive 81 has been praised for its engaging plot and character development, it faced an abrupt cancellation after just one season, despite setting up a storyline ripe for continuation. The intrigue surrounding the cult and the mysteries of the Visser building left many fans disappointed when the series was not renewed.
Produced by James Wan, another prominent figure in the horror landscape, Archive 81 shares a creative pedigree that enhances its appeal. Wan, known for directing influential horror films like The Conjuring series, collaborated with showrunner Rebecca Sonnenshine and executive producer Paul Harris Boardman to bring this chilling narrative to life.
With its blend of slow-burn horror, compelling mysteries, and strong performances, Archive 81 stands as a noteworthy addition to the genre, appealing to fans of both Flanagan’s work and psychological horror at large. As viewers seek out new series to binge, Archive 81 offers a haunting experience that lingers long after the credits roll, making it a fitting companion to Flanagan’s earlier successes.
