Ryan Murphy’s creative crossroads: exploring the highs and lows of “Grotesquerie” and his broader impact

There’s a pervasive listlessness to “Grotesquerie,” the new FX horror drama that distinguishes itself from “American Horror Story” while still retaining certain Murphy-esque elements. Despite its intriguing premise, the series falters, leaving viewers unsettled and yearning for more.

A detective’s struggle: Lois versus the grotesque

In “Grotesquerie,” grizzled detective Lois, played by Niecy Nash, finds herself pitted against a serial killer who contorts his victims’ bodies into disturbing Biblical scenes. Rather than diving into the gory shock value or propelling Lois’ investigation forward, however, the show’s initial episodes linger in a melancholic state, reflecting Lois’ own inner turmoil. We often see her staring blankly out her car window or downing a drink, experiencing her latest case as a metaphor for her personal anguish. The satisfaction of seeing Nash in a serious lead role is dampened by the sluggish pace of the narrative.

The broader picture: Murphy’s creative saturation

“Grotesquerie” represents more than just a single show’s struggle; it symbolizes a broader creative malaise within the Ryan Murphy universe. Currently, Murphy has no less than six shows airing concurrently across four platforms, a testament to his prolific output. However, the sheer volume seems to have come at the cost of quality.

Expanding the Murphy-verse

Murphy’s latest endeavors include:

• “Doctor Odyssey” on ABC, a gripping cruise ship procedural.
• Continuing hits like “9-1-1” and its spinoff “9-1-1: Lone Star” on ABC and Fox.
• “American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez”, adding another chapter to the extensive anthology franchise.

Murphy has even maintained his presence on Netflix with “Monsters”, a true crime series moving from Jeffrey Dahmer to the Menendez Brothers in its second season (trailer here).

When quantity undermines quality

The creative output is undeniable, but when consumed in aggregate, these shows begin to blur into each other. Characters and settings often feel recycled, contributing to a sense of creative fatigue. For instance, Nathan Lane’s role in “Monsters” echoes his previous Murphy-verse roles, while elements in “Grotesquerie” seem ripped from other Murphy projects without any fresh take.

The legacy of Ryan Murphy

Despite the diluted focus, Murphy’s impact on the television landscape cannot be understated. His earlier shows pushed boundaries and set new standards for diverse and controversial storytelling. “Glee” was transformative for LGBTQ+ representation, and “American Horror Story” pioneered the concept of seasonal anthologies, drawing big-name stars to the small screen.

A fading visionary

Today’s Murphy projects, however, often feel like lagging indicators rather than leaders of the cultural zeitgeist. Earlier ambitious yet ultimately flawed works like “The Politician” and “Hollywood” have given way to more formulaic true crime stories. Shows like “9-1-1,” though engaging, adhere to the procedural format without breaking new ground.

Casting remains a strength

One area where Murphy retains his touch is casting. He has an incredible eye for new talent and a knack for reviving the careers of established actors. Niecy Nash’s Emmy-winning role in “Monsters” and the breakout performances of the Menendez actors are prime examples.

Highlights among the murkiness

Among the swarm of new shows, “Feud: Capote vs. the Swans” stands out, attempting something genuinely novel. Written by Jon Robin Baitz and directed by Gus van Sant, it delves into middle age and the bonds between gay men and tragic women with melancholic grace.

Balancing act: the prolific output vs. diluted focus

However, the line between prolific output and diluted focus is ever more apparent. Episodes of “Monsters” that focus deeply on individual stories, like Erik’s abuse account, show the potential depth Murphy can achieve if given more time and care.

Striking a balance for future creativity

Throughout his career, Murphy has defied easy categorization. He’s both a premium cable artist and a mass entertainer, advocating for social progress while challenging political correctness. Yet, his current slate leans towards rapid, copious production, emphasizing quantity over artistic quality. In 2024, Murphy may find himself more as a mogul than the auteur he once was.

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