In his latest and final series collaboration with Netflix, creator Mike Flanagan ventures into the haunting world of Edgar Allan Poe with “The Fall of the House of Usher.” Similar to his previous work in “The Haunting of Bly Manor,” Flanagan takes a classic short story as the central narrative framework, remixing various macabre poems and short stories by Poe, infusing them with his signature emotional depth.

However, “The Fall of the House of Usher” takes a different path from Flanagan’s usual melancholic tone and embraces gallows humor, resulting in a twisted tale unafraid to embrace the gruesome. While this approach adds a unique flavor to the series, it doesn’t always seamlessly adapt Poe’s work.

The story begins with Auguste Dupin (Carl Lumbly) summoned to a decaying estate for a final meeting with the ailing Roderick Usher (Bruce Greenwood). Roderick, haunted by nightmarish visions of his family’s impending demise, recounts the rise and fall of the Usher dynasty at Fortunato Pharmaceutical, along with the curse that condemns them to horrifying deaths.

Flanagan and his producing partner Trevor Macy employ a cyclical episodic format, focusing on each Usher family member’s demise at the hands of the enigmatic Verna (Carla Gugino). While the deaths are revealed early on, the overarching mystery revolves around the events that cursed the Usher family and Verna’s role in it. Although this format sacrifices some suspense, it compensates with inventive, gruesome deaths and a macabre sense of humor that allows the cast to deliver captivating performances.

The strength of “The Fall of the House of Usher” undoubtedly lies in its exceptional ensemble cast. Featuring the Flanagan family of actors, the series offers showstopping monologues, social commentary on the affluent elite, and insightful explorations of death. Among the Usher family members are Frederick (Henry Thomas), Tamerlane (Samantha Sloyan), Victorine (T’Nia Miller), Napoleon (Rahul Kohli), Camille (Kate Siegel), and Prospero (Sauriyan Sapkota), each corrupt in their unique way. Mark Hamill, voicing the cunning lawyer Arthur Pym “Reaper,” adds his talents to the mix. The one glimmer of hope within this twisted clan is Frederick’s daughter, Lenore (Kyliegh Curran). The distinct character portrayals keep the narrative engaging, even though their fates are known from the start. Each episode offers opportunities for the cast to shine, with Henry Thomas standing out for his ability to embrace the absurdity of the Usher family. Carla Gugino, as the enigmatic Verna, effortlessly shifts between terrifying and seductive, even if her role is somewhat predictable for Poe enthusiasts.

Where “The Fall of the House of Usher” falters is in integrating Poe’s works. While the series excels at crafting elaborate kills that suit the dark tone, incorporating Poe’s poetry into the dialogue feels occasionally forced and clunky. Some references are subtle, like Camille’s repeated “Toby, dammit,” a nod to “Never Bet the Devil Your Head: A Moral Tale.” However, Roderick’s constant recitation of “Annabel Lee” in connection to his late wife, Annabel (Katie Parker), becomes overly thematic and repetitive. The clash between Poe’s prose and Flanagan’s own writing style is evident, but it may be less noticeable to those unfamiliar with Poe’s work.

“The Fall of the House of Usher” benefits from exquisitely crafted horror sequences, particularly in the latter episodes, bolstered by Laurin Kelsey’s intricate gothic production design. Director Michael Fimognari’s expertise shines in the depiction of murders that will delight horror fans.

Overall, “The Fall of the House of Usher” feels like Mike Flanagan experimenting with form and tone. It offers a surprisingly funny yet grisly series experience. While it doesn’t seamlessly merge with Poe’s literary origins, it compensates with a stunning production, inventive horror sequences, and standout performances. This series is more about the journey than its conclusion, and Flanagan’s interpretation of Poe, combined with incisive commentary and a stellar cast, makes for an enthralling watch.

All eight episodes of “The Fall of the House of Usher” will be available globally on Netflix starting October 12th.