I’m pretty sure I’ve mentioned it before, but I really enjoy horror that’s more creepy than hack and slash. The kind that not only keeps you on edge, but also makes you contemplate what might happen next and how it affects the overall plot. Or, sometimes, stuff that’s just plain strange and you have to think about what’s really going on. Castle Rock is a series that manages to do all of that and more. 

The series is based on the themes and  interconnected world created by Stephen King – yes, most of his novels are connected in multiple ways, not just having a common location. Of course, the setting is a small town in Maine that seems to be the epicenter for a lot of tragedy. (FYI, it’s the same town King has used in 4 or 5 novels and multiple short stories.) And the iconic, looming presence in the county is Shawshank Prison. It plays a pivotal role right from the beginning, with a number of characters related to it in one way or another.

Another major location within and around town is the woods – it is Maine, after all, so trees, woods and forested areas are everywhere. And woods are always a good spot for secrets and chases and hiding things and, well, it seems nothing good ever happens in the woods in a Stephen King story. So there is definitely familiar territory for his fans and fans of horror in general.

The show actually manages to retain it’s creepy vibe throughout and throw in plenty of “WTF just happened?!” moments. And late in the season there is quite the curve ball, as everything you’ve been told to that point about a couple of primary characters gets flipped. (Pretty sure this is thanks to the involvement of J.J. Abrams.) I thought it was a pretty good twist, making the entire plot a lot deeper than just “stop the evil dude”. And, honestly, catching the bits and pieces of well-known plots and characters that are thrown in for King fans gave the show almost an element of fun. I’m definitely looking forward to season two (which starts later this month).