Ryan Murphy is a prolific producer and his creativity spreads in all directions…with an emphasis on the sensational. He created The Watcher as a new limited series for Netflix, while America Horror Story enters its 11^th season.

The Watcher A happy family (headed by Naomi Watts & Bobby Cannavale, who’s especially good) leaves the hectic life of Manhattan for a grand new home in the peaceful suburbs. Turns out that the house is either haunted by ghosts or inhabited by an unknown or whatever. Any mystery needs to pay off in the final revelation, but this one isn’t worth the slog. There are some creepy moments and lots of fun performances, including Jennifer Coolidge channelling her best self and Mia Farrow going totally bonkers. The mystery is somewhat compelling, but the resolution lacks punch. BTW, look for Richmond native Duke Lafoon as a neighbor in Ep. 4 about 22:00. (3 / 5)
Netflix link

American Horror Story: NYC Typically, this series (now in its 11^th season) has scary subjects with a supernatural angle. Based on the first 4 eps of this one, it’s more like a typical serial killer drama. (Murphy’s recent Jeffery Dahmer series follows that path.) Since Murphy’s in charge, there is a unique approach: Gay New York in the 80s with an S&M slant. A sadistic killer (or is it 2?) is stalking gay men and the editor for a gay magazine (Joe Mantello, also in The Watcher) seems to be one of few who are concerned. While there are plenty of dark elements, the creepy effect is stronger than the horror. It also gets too preachy about the issues of the time (which Murphy also covered in Pose). This isn’t the best AHS or even an especially strong one. (2.5 / 5)
Fox and Hulu link