Forget ‘Carrie,’ Mike Flanagan’s Best Netflix Miniseries Is a Masterpiece From Start to Finish

Mike Flanagan's Midnight Mass, a Netflix miniseries preceding his adaptation of Stephen King's Carrie, stands as his most acclaimed work. The show delves into the complex themes of grief, loss, and faith in a small, struggling fishing community on Crockett Island. Riley Flynn, played by Zach Gilford, returns to his hometown after serving time in prison, only to find things have only worsened.

The community, once vibrant, now faces dwindling resources and dwindling population. Amidst this turmoil, the show introduces elements of the supernatural, notably through the arrival of Father Paul Hill, played by Hamish Linklater, who represents a beacon of hope for the desperate townspeople.

The series masterfully explores how faith can be both a source of comfort and a catalyst for dangerous blind adherence. Sheriff Hassan, the sole Muslim resident, grapples with the stark contrasts between his faith and that of the predominantly Catholic community. Bev Keane, portrayed by Samantha Sloyan, is a zealot who clings to her faith through the despair of the remaining citizens.

The introduction of Father Paul stirs up hope in the community, but his true nature remains concealed, leading to unforeseen consequences. The show weaves a narrative rich with emotional dialogue and layers of human emotion, challenging viewers to question the nature of faith and the choices we make. Despite its horror elements, Midnight Mass transcends the typical monster-focused genre, offering a poignant exploration of human frailty, hope, and the inevitable passage of time.