AMC Visionaries: Eli Roth's History of Horrors Season 2 Episode 201 Overview

In season 2, episode 1 of Eli Roth's History of Horror, entitled "Overview," the acclaimed horror filmmaker delves into the origins of horror storytelling and how it has evolved over time.

Roth starts off by exploring the roots of horror, which he identifies as being deeply intertwined with our most basic fears as human beings. From the earliest cave paintings to ancient myths and legends, the idea of confronting the unknown and the monstrous has always held a fascination for people across cultures and civilizations.

Moving forward in time, Roth then takes us through the early history of horror literature, highlighting key figures such as Mary Shelley and Edgar Allan Poe and how they helped to shape the genre. He also talks about how horror writing became embroiled in wider debates about morality and censorship, with authors such as Bram Stoker and H.P. Lovecraft both facing scrutiny over the explicit nature of their work.

Next, Roth jumps forward to the rise of horror in Hollywood, tracing its origins to the early days of cinema with films like "Nosferatu" and "The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari." From there, he explores how horror filmmaking grew and evolved over the decades, looking at iconic movies such as "Psycho," "The Exorcist," and "Halloween" and the key filmmakers behind them.

Throughout the episode, Roth uses expert interviews and footage from classic horror films to illustrate his points, as well as delving into the social and cultural factors that have influenced the evolution of horror storytelling. From the influence of the counter-culture movement on 1960s horror to the impact of the AIDS crisis on the genre in the 1980s, Roth shows how horror has always been a genre in conversation with the world around it.

Ultimately, "Overview" is a rich and engaging look at the history of horror, exploring not only how it has evolved but why it has become such a potent force in popular culture. Whether you're a longtime horror fan or a newcomer to the genre, this episode is sure to inform and entertain, leaving you with a new appreciation for the artistry and impact of the horror films that have terrified and thrilled audiences for generations.