Scary, funny, for horror fans. Review of the animated series Haunted Hotel

Dan Harmon's name and the mention of Rick and Morty in the credits of any animated project instantly create a certain level of expectation: viewers are prepared for cynicism, meta-humor and the deconstruction of genre clichés. Netflix's new animated series Haunted Hotel, created by writer Matt Roller with Harmon as a producer, at first glance fits this formula perfectly. It is a witty, visually rich and bold parody of the horror genre. However, behind the frantic pace, absurd gags and a stream of references lies an unexpectedly warm and sincere story, which makes this series something much more than just another comedy for adults.

The plot introduces us to Catherine, who inherits her brother Nathan's hotel "Undervale" after his death. Together with her two children, Ben and Esther, she moves in to run the business, but quickly finds out that the hotel is a real portal for all sorts of evil. In addition to dozens of ghosts, monsters and other bizarre creatures, Nathan himself lives here in the form of a spirit, as well as the powerful demon Abbadon, imprisoned in the body of a boy from the 18th century. Now this strange, unconventional family has to not only try to make money, but also solve problems related to the otherworldly world every day.

From the first episodes, it becomes clear that the creators of the series are ardent fans of the horror genre. Haunted Hotel is a veritable encyclopedia of horror tropes, which the authors lovingly and ironically deconstruct. There are parodies of films about serial killers, exorcisms, werewolves, haunted houses, and even a TV show about paranormal hunters. The humor is often built on attempts to understand the logic of the otherworldly: why can ghosts pass through walls, but not through the floor? How to evict a ghost who doesn't pay rent? These questions, which inquisitive fans of the genre have discussed for years, become the basis for witty and inventive sketches.

Visually, the series is quite rich. Every frame is full of small details, background jokes and references that reward the attentive viewer. The fast pace and density of events are reminiscent of "Rick and Morty", but "Haunted Hotel" has its own unique, softer and less aggressive style. It is not a cynical satire, but rather a friendly parody, created with respect for the original sources.

However, the main advantage of the series is its emotional core. Behind all this comedic orgy is a touching story about a found family. This is a story about how completely different, traumatized and lonely creatures - a woman trying to cope with the role of a single mother, her shy teenage son, a hyperactive daughter, the spirit of a brother who has not coped with his own life, and even an ancient demon - learn to live together and support each other. The series is not afraid to talk about difficult topics: grief from the loss of a loved one, parental responsibilities, self-sacrifice and the importance of choice.

The cast and voice acting deserve special praise. Each voice fits the character perfectly, adding depth and charisma to it. Will Forte as Nathan brilliantly conveys the image of a good-natured but irresponsible ghost. Jimmi Simpson as Abbadon creates an unforgettable image of a powerful demon whose rage is constantly shattered by the reality of his childish body. But the emotional anchor is Eliza Coop, who plays Catherine - the only "normal" person in this madness, whose fatigue and irritation balance the general chaos.

Of course, the series is not without its flaws. The early episodes can feel a bit slow, as they spend a lot of time introducing the characters and the rules of this strange world. Sometimes the show relies too much on familiar genre clichés, offering no original interpretation of its own, but only qualitatively parodying them. Because of this, some episodes feel more like a successful homage than an independent story.

However, that doesn't stop Haunted Hotel from being a great addition to Netflix's adult animation library. It's funny, smart, and surprisingly heartfelt, finding the perfect balance between dark humor and heartfelt emotion. It may not have the philosophical depth of BoJack Horseman or the sci-fi sweep of Rick and Morty, but it offers something no less valuable - a warm and touching story about how real family is not those you're related to by blood, but the ghosts, demons, and monsters you choose.