Watch Midnight Mass

Midnight Mass is a supernatural horror series that first premiered on Netflix in 2021. Created by Mike Flanagan, the show features an ensemble cast headlined by Kate Siegel, Zach Gilford, and Kristin Lehman. Set on a small, remote island off the coast of Maine, Midnight Mass follows the story of a tight-knit community grappling with faith and belief in the wake of a mysterious stranger's arrival. Father Paul (Hamish Linklater) has returned to the island after spending years away, and his presence reignites a sense of devotion and hope in the community that appears to have been lost.

At the heart of the story is Riley Flynn (Gilford), a former resident who returns home after serving time in prison. Riley's life has been upended by addiction and trauma, and he is searching for redemption when he arrives back on the island. But the return of Father Paul and the events that follow threaten to shatter any hope of a peaceful reunion.

As the island's residents begin to experience inexplicable miracles and wonders, Father Paul's sermons take on an increasingly unsettling tone. His teachings attract more and more followers, even as signs of a darker presence begin to emerge. As tensions rise and secrets are revealed, Midnight Mass becomes an engrossing exploration of faith, fear, and the human experience.

Siegel's character, Erin Greene, serves as the audience's guide through the world of Midnight Mass. A young reporter investigating the island's recent string of odd events, Erin must navigate the complex relationships and beliefs of its inhabitants in her pursuit of the truth. Siegel delivers a nuanced and grounded performance that ensures Erin is more than just a plot device - she is a fully-realized character in her own right.

Gilford is similarly impressive as Riley, bringing depth and vulnerability to a character who could easily have been a caricature. Riley's struggle with addiction and trauma is sensitively portrayed, and his journey towards catharsis is one of the show's most compelling arcs.

Lehman, playing Anne (who is also Riley's mother), delivers a standout performance that balances warmth with an undercurrent of tension. Anne is a devout member of the community, resolute in her faith and determined to ensure her son's return is a success - but as events spiral out of control, her beliefs are tested in unexpected ways.

Rounding out the cast are a host of talented actors, including Linklater as Father Paul, Rahul Kohli as Erin's editor, and Samantha Sloyan as the island's doctor. The supporting players inject the show with a sense of authenticity, capturing the quirks and intricacies of small town life.

From a technical standpoint, Midnight Mass is a masterclass in atmospheric horror. Flanagan and cinematographer Michael Fimognari create a sense of deep unease that permeates every frame, utilizing a palette of muted blues and grays to evoke the isolation and dread of the island. The show's use of sound design is similarly effective, with composer The Newton Brothers delivering an eerie, haunting score that sets the tone for the entire series.

In sum, Midnight Mass is a stunning achievement in psychological horror that defies easy categorization. Equal parts mystery, drama, and scares, the show is a meditation on faith, grief, and what it means to be human. With standout performances, exceptional writing, and an unforgettable atmosphere, it is a must-watch for fans of the genre and beyond.

Midnight Mass is a series that ran for 1 seasons (7 episodes) between September 24, 2021 and on Netflix