The second episode of The Haunting of Hill House, titled "Open Casket", delves deeply into the character of Shirley Crain, exploring her formative years and the psychological scars she carries into adulthood. This episode intricately weaves between the past and present, using Shirley's experiences with death as a lens to examine her resilience and need for control, which defines much of her personality. By highlighting her connection to mortality through her career as a mortician, the episode solidifies her role as a bridge between the living and the dead, a thematic cornerstone of the series.
The narrative begins with a chilling continuation from the previous episode, as Shirley awakens abruptly, muttering cryptic words that hint at the foreboding connection between the siblings and Hill House. From there, the story alternates between young Shirley's discovery of a litter of kittens and her adult life, managing a funeral home and grappling with the financial and emotional toll of her choices. The discovery of the kittens initially symbolizes hope and innocence, but the eventual disturbing revelations tied to them deepen the episode's unnerving tone. Moments like young Shirley witnessing unnatural phenomena, including a terrifying scene with the kittens, are emblematic of the show's ability to merge the mundane with the supernatural to provoke genuine horror.
The direction by Mike Flanagan remains exemplary, with a meticulous balance of suspense and emotion. The episode's pacing is deliberate, allowing the narrative to focus on Shirley's internal struggles while integrating moments of high tension, such as a harrowing sequence involving loud banging in the night. These scenes are executed with precision, building dread without relying on overt jump scares. The cinematography accentuates this unease, with haunting imagery like the shadows of Hill House and eerie reflections reinforcing the sense of an omnipresent menace.
Performance-wise, Lulu Wilson as young Shirley and Elizabeth Reaser as her adult counterpart deliver compelling portrayals. Wilson captures the character's innocence tinged with precocious curiosity, while Reaser embodies her steely demeanor, undercut by moments of vulnerability. The supporting cast also shines, particularly Victoria Pedretti as Nell, whose brief appearances add emotional weight to the episode's central themes. However, the emphasis on Shirley's perspective may leave viewers yearning for more exploration of the other siblings, a minor drawback in an otherwise well-crafted narrative.
The episode's script is poignant, offering profound meditations on grief and memory. A standout scene involves young Shirley preparing to bury one of the kittens with her mother, Olivia, who imparts a tender yet haunting reflection on how stories of the deceased keep their essence alive. This moment underscores the series' broader exploration of how we confront loss and the narratives we create to endure its weight. Still, some may find the dialogue heavy-handed in places, veering into exposition rather than subtlety.
In conclusion, "Open Casket" is a masterful character study that builds on the psychological horror introduced in the series premiere. By centering Shirley's narrative, it enriches the emotional stakes of the story and lays the groundwork for the familial tensions that drive the show forward. The juxtaposition of past innocence with present pain amplifies the tragedy of the Crain family's plight. While the episode leans heavily on Shirley's arc, it successfully deepens the overarching themes of loss and resilience, maintaining the series' reputation as a poignant and chilling modern ghost story.
