'Steven Sees a Ghost' starts the series off on a high note, mixing the right amount of spookiness with a deep dive into family dynamics that are as complicated as they are fascinating. The episode lays down the groundwork for both the supernatural and the emotional hauntings the Crain family faces, with Steven's skepticism about ghosts setting a compelling contrast to the rest of his family's experiences. The storytelling is top-notch, flipping between past and present to slowly unravel the mystery of Hill House and its impact on the Crains. It's not just about the scares; it's the human element, the broken relationships, and hidden traumas that really make it stand out.
What really sets this episode apart is how it balances the horror elements with character development, making you care about the characters while also dreading what's lurking in the shadows. The ending of the episode, where Steven's disbelief is challenged, sets the tone for the entire series, promising more than just your average ghost story. It's an 8/10 for me because while it's incredibly engaging and beautifully shot, there are moments when the pacing slows down just a bit too much, losing some of the tension. However, the eerie atmosphere, combined with the complex characters and their tangled pasts, makes 'Steven Sees a Ghost' a compelling start to what promises to be a hauntingly good series.
