Flanaverse: The Horror Universe of Mike Flanagan

A brief introduction to Mike Flanagan's exceptional projects.

16 Jan, 20243 min read

Mike Flanagan is a director, writer, editor, and producer known for his work in the horror genre. Through his dedication to storytelling and his unique approach to horror, Flanagan made his mark on the filmmaking industry. Apart from producing his own films and series, Flanagan has made adaptations of writer’s works, such as Stephen King, Edgar Allan Poe, and Shirley Jackson.

What makes him incomparable compared to other directors of horror? There are several answers to that.

His distinctive style is defined by complex narrative, dark cinematography, and an emphasis on the inner depth of his characters' psychology. Thus, he offers an exceptional gothic experience compared to other horror films that lack depth and story.

The focus of Flanagan's movies is frequently on character-driven stories. He explores the anxieties, traumas, and internal conflicts of his characters by going deeply into their minds. Because of this, the viewer is able to emotionally relate to the characters and become involved in their stories. A perfect example of this unique ability of Mike Flanagan can be seen in The Haunting of Hill House, in which he presents the psychological traumas experienced by a family of 7. Each member of the Crain family has their own struggles, fears, and traumatic experiences linked to the Hill House that they lived together several years earlier. These fears and unfortunate experiences continue to follow the Crain children to their adulthood. Beyond the horror elements, The Haunting of Hill House in fact demonstrates us the artlessness of grief and childhood trauma.

Flanagan is also known for the complexity of his narratives and his non-linear storytelling. He frequently uses devices like dream sequences, flashbacks, and parallel stories to build tension and mystery while disclosing significant plot details. To be specific, his ability to uncomplicatedly go back in forth in time helps the audience to connect the dots about the plot. Personally, Midnight Mass is a perfect example of Flanagan’s ability to develop such a deep tie concerning the characters and their changed life after Father Paul’s arrival, who as a matter of fact has never left.

When compared to other horror series that focus on jump scares instantly, Midnight Mass takes a slow-burn narrative approach. The plot can progress methodically as the tension and suspense are progressively intensified. Character development and subject exploration can go deeper because of this pacing. Midnight Mass isn't just about jump scares, though horror and supernatural themes are prevalent. Rather, it employs horror as a means of delving into existential and philosophical issues while evoking a sense of dread and unease through dramatic storytelling.

And one thing about Flanagan’s unique style is that he likes to innovate, as it is clear that his works outshine other projects of the horror genre. Flanagan's imagination combined with his skill in narrating enriches audiences' experience while watching his projects. 2016 horror-thriller Hush, for example, challenges the traditional victimization of female characters.

Unlike many horror films with expansive locations or supernatural elements, Hush takes place predominantly in a single location – Maddie's house. This confined location heightens the tension and makes the audience feel the protagonist's alienation and claustrophobia. The authentic and grounded style of the story intensifies its terrifying effect. Because the main character is deaf, the movie uses creative sound design. An eerie and unpleasant atmosphere is created when the audience sees what is happening through Maddie's eyes at certain periods when sound is either completely muted or non-existent.