TV fans rave over ‘one of the most unexpected’ horror series of the year

For decades now, both horror and comedy have often been described as two sides of the same coin.

Whether it’s a laugh or gasp of fear, the genres are united in attempting to elicit a visceral reaction from audiences.

But despite their similarities, walking the tightrope between the two is certainly no easy feat.

However, following the release of the first two episodes of Apple TV‘s horror-comedy Widow’s Bay, which stars The Beast In Me’s Matthew Rhys, fans are calling it ‘one of the most unexpected’ successes of the year.

Described as a mix of Stephen King and Parks and Recreation – which would in fact make sense as the creator of this series also wrote the American mockumentary sitcom – the 10-part series currently holds a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes and is generating buzz.

Taking to social media, fans have also sung the show’s praises, which is in part directed by Hiro Murai (Atlanta) and Ti West (Pearl).

Writing on X, Mandolyn said: ‘Watched the first 2 episodes of Apple’s Widow’s Bay and it is delightful.

‘Perfect blend of creepy, superstitious, seafaring town with lots of comedy. One part in ep 2 was particularly terrifying to me for no reason, really well shot.’

Calling it ‘absolutely terrifying’, Shura also wrote: ‘The series is awesome so far, and the cinematography and colors are a masterpiece.’

Aziz added: ‘I liked the atmosphere and the psychological horror too, as well as the camera angles and colors. The touch of comedy is perfect.’

‘A great start to a series I’ve been waiting for for a long time, the first two episodes are beautiful.’

Omar alternatively asked: ‘Ain’t no way I’m sleeping tonight, what did I get myself into?’

Meanwhile, Carey rather simply declared that: ‘I love Widow’s Bay so much.’

‘I had a few episodes towards the end, when reading them, I would make an involuntary noise. I sincerely hope the audience has the same reaction.’

Set on an island just off the coast of New England in America, Widow’s Bay follows the attempt of town mayor Tom Loftis (Rhys) to revive his struggling community.

However, despite tourists beginning to flock to this destination, it soon becomes apparent that the town’s superstitions are starting to come true and the island is actually cursed.

Starring alongside Rhys, Stephen Root plays local sceptic Wyck while Kate O’Flynn is Tom’s rather bizarre assistant.

An official synopsis reads: ‘The mayor of a New England town resolves to turn it into the next tourist hot spot, despite local warnings that it’s cursed.’

Speaking to Metro last week,  The Americans star Rhys said: ‘We all jumped at the scripts. It felt like a very real world. It was very detailed and intricate.

‘I had a few episodes towards the end, when reading them, I would make an involuntary noise. I sincerely hope the audience has the same reaction.’

The third episode of Widow’s Bay airs on Apple TV on Wednesday.

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