TELEVISION REVIEW – From (Epix / MGM+)
By Anthony Ferrara
A Descent into the Unknown: A Review of “From” (Seasons 1-3)
In the crowded landscape of mystery-horror television, “From” has carved out a unique and deeply unsettling niche. A chilling blend of psychological tension, supernatural horror, and an ever-deepening enigma, the show masterfully traps its characters – and its audience – in a nightmare from which there seems to be no escape. Having devoured its first three seasons, I confidently rate “From” a solid 9 out of 10.
The Gripping Premise and Masterful Dread (Season 1)
Season 1 masterfully establishes the suffocating premise: a seemingly idyllic American town where anyone who drives in becomes instantly and irrevocably trapped. Roads loop back, technology fails, and every night, monstrous, smiling creatures emerge from the surrounding forest to hunt. The initial terror is palpable, building a relentless sense of dread that permeates every frame. We’re introduced to a compelling ensemble cast, led by the steadfast Sheriff Boyd Stevens (Harold Perrineau), the pragmatic Matthews family (Catalina Sandino Moreno, Eion Bailey), and the sharp-witted Jade (David Alpay), who quickly becomes the resident skeptic and theorizer. The pacing is taut, each episode unfolding new layers of horror and desperate attempts at survival, making it an incredibly strong debut.
Expanding the Maze & Deepening the Lore (Seasons 2 and 3)
As the narrative progresses into Seasons 2 and 3, “From” broadens its scope, introducing new arrivals to the trapped town and delving deeper into its perplexing mythology. The arrival of the busload of new characters in Season 2 injects fresh dynamics and further stresses the already strained resources and sanity of the residents. We begin to uncover more cryptic clues: mysterious symbols, disturbing visions, the purpose of the totems, and the horrifying truth behind the “visions” that plague some of the townsfolk.
Season 3 continues this trajectory, pushing characters to their breaking points and exploring tantalizing new avenues for escape or understanding, often with devastating consequences. The show excels in expanding its mythology without sacrificing the intimate character focus that makes the terror so personal. While the pace of revelations can sometimes feel like a slow burn, it only intensifies the craving for answers, pulling you deeper into its labyrinthine narrative.
Why It Earns a 9/10: Strengths That Shine
Atmosphere and Tension: “From” is a masterclass in building suspense. The unrelenting sense of dread, the chilling quiet before the creatures emerge, and the constant feeling of being watched create an immersive, terrifying experience.
The Mystery: The core enigma is incredibly compelling. The show constantly introduces new questions, new rules, and new layers of the unknown, keeping viewers actively theorizing and desperate for resolution. It’s a puzzle box that just keeps getting bigger.
Characters and Performances: Despite the fantastical elements, the characters are surprisingly rich and relatable. Their struggles with hope, despair, and the psychological toll of their predicament feel authentic. Harold Perrineau’s portrayal of Boyd is a standout, embodying the weary but determined leader, while other performances by Catalina Sandino Moreno, David Alpay, and Scott McCord (as Kenny) add significant depth.
The Creatures: The nocturnal creatures are genuinely terrifying. Their uncanny smiles and methodical brutality make them far more disturbing than your average monster, a unique blend of folk horror and psychological dread.
Plot and Pacing (Mostly): While a slow burn, the show’s deliberate pacing allows for deep dives into character arcs and the gradual unfolding of its complex mythology. Each season leaves you with a profound sense of anticipation for what comes next.
Minor Quibbles
The 9 out of 10 rating acknowledges the show’s near-perfection in its genre, with only minor caveats. The primary “frustration” for some viewers might be the deliberate, often glacial pace of plot progression and answer-giving. While this slow burn is part of its charm and adds to the mystery, it means viewers must be prepared for a journey where questions often multiply faster than answers are provided. Occasionally, a character’s decision might strain credulity slightly, but these moments are rare and quickly overshadowed by the show’s overall strength.
Conclusion
For fans of thoughtful, tension-filled horror and deep mysteries, “From” is an absolute must-watch. It’s a testament to compelling storytelling, blending the terror of the unknown with the quiet desperation of human resilience. Each season leaves you desperate for the next, proving that even without all the answers, the journey itself can be horrifyingly addictive. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a show that will genuinely get under their skin and stay there long after the credits roll.
I Give This Television Series 9 Out of 10 Stars
– Anthony Ferrara
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