And so it makes perfect sense that Murphy and company hired Mama Monster herself to play The Countess Elizabeth, the mysterious woman in charge of the Cortez, aided by her partner Donovan (Matt Bomer). The second act consists almost entirely of Gaga and Bomer picking up a couple, taking them back to the hotel for a graphic foursome, and, well, I won’t spoil it, but the whole thing is set to “Tear You Apart” by She Wants Revenge for a reason. No dialogue, pure imagery and music—and it’s the best thing about the premiere. “AHS” regulars Evan Peters and Angela Bassett will appear in later episodes, while Chloe Sevigny co-stars as the cop’s wife and Denis O’Hare plays a man in a dress named Liz Taylor. Not like “AHS” fans need a lot of convincing to watch a new installment, but those last few words probably did it.
American Horror Story: Hotel is cluttered, unfocused, ridiculous, and silly, but it is very self-aware and stunningly confident at the same time. Murphy and Falchuk almost dare you not to join in the chaos, and it certainly feels more assured than the inconsistent “Freak Show.”
RogerEbert.com - 70
Quote:
Like the previous four "AHS" editions, the fifth is a visual feast (which is probably the wrong word here, but you get the idea). Everything--everyone, and not just Gaga--is eroticized, too. Even the shadows are seductive. A shame that it all feels so grim and joyless.
Newsday - 67
Quote:
Filled with arresting imagery, much of the action takes place in a beyond-creepy L.A. hotel.... There’s almost an indifference to story--after the premiere, it’s hard to see a huge motivation to watch in order to unlock the show’s lingering mysteries.
Variety - 60
Quote:
The overall picture is just a little too busy, too dense. The first episode of Hotel--the only one available to critics--is so busy trying to set up its divergent cast of characters it ends up being confusing and exhausting.
