American Horror Story: Hotel – "Room Service” Review. Mother’s Little Maker.

Season 5, Episode 5

Airdate: Wednesday, November 4, 2015, 10:00 PM ET/PT on FX

Rating: ★★★★★

The Countess isn’t the only Maker in town

One step forward, two steps back is the pattern American Horror Story: Hotel (AHS: Hotel) has been following as it reaches the fifth episode, “Room Service.” In the aftermath of Detective John Lowe’s (Wes Bentley) killer dinner with the murderous spirit of James Patrick March (Evan Peters) and Alex’s (Chloë Sevigny) decision to join The Countess’ (Lady Gaga) band of blood drinkers, “Room Service” turns its attention to the many problems at hand within the Hotel Cortez.

A Series of Unfortunate Events

Thus far, the season for AHS: Hotel is as restless as the people who inhabit the hotel. The primary problem lies with the influx of new characters and the lack of focus on the ones presented in the season premiere, “Checking In,” more than four weeks ago. As AHS: Hotel nears the middle of the season, characters like Sally (Sarah Paulson), whose only purpose seems to be torturing John, remain underdeveloped. That said, there are various strengths in “Room Service” that make up for this season’s stagnant pace; the most notable one is Kathy Bates. Bates’ portrayal of Iris reminds viewers why she is an Academy Award winner, especially with the poignant ways she expresses Iris’ wide range of emotions. Iris’ transformation from an embittered woman in “Checking In” to one of strength in “Room Service” amid all her problems with Donovan (Matt Bomer) is an absorbing story to watch unfold. As a carrier of the virus, Iris’ methods of surviving on blood will be an interesting subject in future episodes, especially if her relationship with Donovan improves. Speaking of Donovan, his decision to condemn his mother to a life of crime in the hotel is selfish, as that’s what it will be if she needs fresh blood. I want to like Donovan but his egocentric nature is off putting despite his beautiful face. I’m not sure how I feel about his intentions with bringing Iris to Ramona Royale (Angela Bassett), as this will not bode well for Iris down the line if his plan to destroy The Countess fails. I’m not sure if it’s the consistency of the writing or if it’s intentional, but I hope Donovan is a little less cruel than he has been in the past. Donovan’s breakthrough in realizing his mother’s importance is a major turning point for him. I really hope he does not revert to his old ways with Iris.

The Kids Are Not Alright

Alex takes a mother’s love to a whole other level

Character development is not just for continuity. It also creates a connection between the viewers and the actors. Case in point—Alex, a doctor who is so obsessed with her son Holden (Lennon Henry) that she emotionally abandons her husband and daughter Scarlett (Shree Crooks) after Holden’s kidnapping. Sevigny is a marvelous actress and I am enjoying her interpretation, but the material for a majority of Alex’s scenes is in a constant state of distress, leaving little room for emotional range. I don’t feel like I know Alex very well, which causes her to be unlikable when she makes drastic decisions. For example, when one of Alex’s patients, the little boy who has the measles, takes a turn for the worse, she plays God by infecting him with the virus. Her decision is incredibly reckless and idiotic. She, herself, understands the power the thirst has over a person. Why would she subject a child to that kind of torture? Naturally, her plan to do a ‘good’ deed goes horrifically wrong when the boy leaves the hospital.

Queen of Denial

Aside from Iris’ story line, I absolutely love how Liz Taylor (Denis O’Hare) grabs a bit of the spotlight with the origins of his connection to The Countess and his life prior to the Hotel Cortez. Liz’s life as Nick Pryor, a businessman with a secret love for silky negligees, brings the major themes of the episode to the surface. The Hotel Cortez is a haven for people with secrets and inner demons. Watching Nick transform from a life half-lived to one of freedom as Liz Taylor is a memorable moment.

Overall

I can’t recall when a TV show left me with such mixed emotions. I am disappointed with AHS: Hotel and I can only hope the main story lines pick up the pace as the season progresses. The cast is incredible, and episodic writer Ned Martel creates some wonderful scenes. Witnessing how impressive the American Horror Story (AHS) franchise has been, my expectations are high. The story arcs in AHS: Hotel, however, are not as strong, and Ramona’s introduction as the antagonist should have come earlier in the season to create more tension. Overall, with more heart and less gore in AHS: Hotel, there is still potential for an outstanding season. I’m keeping my fingers crossed.

What did you think of “Room Service?” Let me know in the comments below or on Twitter @conallen.