Explained: Ending of “X” from American Horror Stories Season 4

Essential Insights

The “X”episode of American Horror Stories employs a black and white aesthetic, enhancing its classic horror feel.
This episode unveils the dark goings-on in a hospital where Dr. Nostrum conducts experiments on cancer patients.
While emphasizing important healthcare issues, the episode effectively maintains an authentically eerie atmosphere.

In a landscape crowded with horror television series that often fail to maintain momentum beyond their first seasons, Ryan Murphy’s American Horror Stories continues to thrive. The trailer for season 4 hinted at horrific narratives centered around monsters, shadows, and dread, and the five episodes delivered thrillingly. Episode 3 of American Horror Stories season 4, titled “X”, explores unsettling occurrences within a hospital setting. The entirety of the episode is presented in black and white, contributing to a chilling and retro vibe. While the season is commendable overall, this specific stylistic choice allows this story to shine even more brightly.

Mia Isaac portrays Claire Michaels, a nurse who uncovers alarming truths about the hospital environment. By the conclusion of the American Horror Stories episode “X,”Claire’s life is irrevocably transformed as she discovers the harrowing reality of Dr. Nostrum (Henry Winkler).

What Transpires at the Conclusion of “X”?

Amy Ruggiero as Alice Taylor in American Horror Stories

As the American Horror Stories episode “X”wraps up, Dr. Nostrum attempts to operate on Malcolm (Dyllon Burnside) and Claire, revealing that he has been experimenting on cancer patients and imprisoning them within hospital cages. Under the guise of a program he dubs the Springhill Program, he falsely presents himself as their savior while, in truth, he is murdering them. Unfortunately for Malcolm and Claire, they realize the grim reality of Ward X just too late, sealing their fates.

The ominous tone permeates every frame of the fourth season’s “X,”heightening the tension as the finale approaches and Claire faces genuine peril. Although she strives for escape, appearing to survive, she eventually awakens in a hospital bed, only to discover that the staff is complicit in the sinister workings of Ward X. They restrain her and strap her to a chair, revealing to the audience her impending doom as the camera pulls away.

In contrast to the other four episodes of American Horror Stories season 4, “X”stands out as the sole black and white installment. Its stylistic approach evokes the ambiance of vintage horror films, and the backdrop of a decrepit hospital serves to amplify this effect. Although shooting in color might have produced a compelling story, it would not have matched the captivating nature of “X.”Additionally, Alice Taylor (Amy Ruggiero), a patient who escapes from Ward X and seeks vengeance on her oppressors, adds a notable twist. With her ghostly appearance, she emerges as one of the most chilling figures in this renowned anthology series.

What Does “X”Explore?

Henry Winkler as Dr. Nostrum in the American Horror Stories

The episode “X”in season 4 of American Horror Stories delves into several significant themes. It critiques the American healthcare system and underscores the importance of listening to one’s instincts and voicing concerns when something feels amiss. While the main character faces a tragic fate, she strives to act in accordance with her moral compass. Compared to various other installments of American Horror Stories, “X”conveys a more profound message, yet retains its signature unsettling essence.

Furthermore, Claire discovers that her colleague Lily Mulling (Jennifer Ferrin) was involved in Ward X and witnesses her tragic leap from the hospital rooftop. This adds another layer of trauma to Claire’s narrative, revealing the pervasive deceit within her working environment. Similar to the AHS episode “Bestie,””X”features a mix of relatable characters and others who unveil their disturbingly ruthless sides by episode’s end. Horror enthusiasts seeking a singular gripping episode of American Horror Stories would do well to start with “X,”as it is bound to entice them into binge-watching the entire series.

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