Beauty: Unleashing the Beast

Ryan Murphy’s latest series, “The Beauty,” is a wild and thrilling ride that’s making waves in the entertainment world. The show, loosely adapted from a comic by Jeremy Haun and Jason A. Hurley, takes us to a very near future where a wonder drug called “The Beauty” makes people their sexiest selves, with some unexpected side effects.

Ashton Kutcher stars as Byron Frost, known as the Corporation, who creates this drug. When a runway model played by Bella Hadid goes on a rampage before exploding in public, the FBI takes notice of a strange trend: beautiful people are bursting. Agents Cooper Madsen and Jordan Bennett, played by Evan Peters and Rebecca Hall, are on the case, jet-setting across the globe to get to the bottom of things.

One of the highlights of “The Beauty” is its stunning and graphic depiction of body horror and gore. The effects and transformations are truly captivating. Despite some moments of subtlety, the show doesn’t hold back on the blood and guts, making for a thrilling and visually striking watch.

The series also leans into Ryan Murphy’s signature snark and wit, adding a devil-may-care energy to the show. However, some of the more mean-spirited moments, like the treatment of certain characters, can leave a bad taste in viewers’ mouths. While the show tries to touch on social commentary about beauty standards and interventions, it sometimes falls short and loses its impact.

Overall, “The Beauty” is a mixed bag of thrills and chills. It’s Murphy’s best work in a while, but it’s not without its flaws. Whether you’re a fan of body horror, corporate intrigue, or soapy drama, this series has something for everyone. Catch “The Beauty” on FX and Hulu starting January 21st for a wild and unforgettable ride.