The Cult of Curiosity: Why Alfonso Cuarón’s ‘Ascension’ Could Be the Next Psychological Horror Obsession
There’s something undeniably magnetic about cults. Not the actual, dangerous kind—though their allure is precisely what makes them so fascinating—but the way they’re portrayed in fiction. Personally, I think it’s because cults tap into something primal: the tension between belief and skepticism, the allure of belonging, and the terror of losing oneself. So when I heard that Alfonso Cuarón, the mastermind behind Roma and Gravity, is diving into the psychological horror genre with Ascension, I couldn’t help but lean in closer.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the pairing of Cuarón’s visionary storytelling with Caitríona Balfe, fresh off her iconic run as Claire Fraser in Outlander. Balfe’s ability to embody complex, resilient women is undeniable, and her role as Rose, a documentary filmmaker unraveling the mysteries of the Church of Ascension, feels like a perfect match. But here’s the twist: Rose isn’t just an outsider looking in. She’s drawn to the cult’s teachings, finding solace in them before realizing the darkness beneath. This dynamic—of being both captivated and horrified—is what I suspect will make Ascension more than just another horror series.
The Cult as a Mirror: What ‘Ascension’ Might Reveal About Us
Cults in media often serve as metaphors for societal fears, and Ascension seems poised to do the same. Inspired by Adam Nevill’s Last Days, the series shifts focus from the supernatural to the psychological, exploring themes of evil, innocence, and self-deception. What many people don’t realize is that the scariest part of cult narratives isn’t the cult itself—it’s the way they reflect our own vulnerabilities. Rose’s journey, as a divorced mother struggling with her own secrets, feels deeply human. If you take a step back and think about it, her story isn’t just about uncovering a cult’s sins; it’s about confronting the sins we all carry.
This raises a deeper question: What does it mean to sacrifice for love, and at what point does that sacrifice become self-destruction? Ascension seems to be asking whether the greatest threat comes from external forces or from within. In my opinion, this internal vs. external conflict is what will set the series apart. It’s not just about jump scares or eerie rituals; it’s about the quiet, unsettling realization that we’re all capable of being both victim and villain.
Cuarón’s Vision: From Bond to Psychological Horror
One thing that immediately stands out is Cuarón’s pivot from blockbuster franchises to psychological horror. His near-involvement with the James Bond franchise—twice, no less—is a detail that I find especially interesting. Cuarón’s decision to walk away from Bond because of creative constraints speaks volumes about his commitment to artistic integrity. What this really suggests is that Ascension won’t be a cookie-cutter horror series. Cuarón’s track record with character-driven, visually stunning narratives (think Children of Men or Roma) hints at a show that will prioritize depth over shock value.
Collaborating with Natalie Erika James and Christian White, the minds behind Relic and Apartment 7A, further cements this expectation. Their work in psychological horror is marked by a focus on emotional resonance rather than cheap thrills. From my perspective, this creative team is poised to deliver a series that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll.
Balfe’s Return to Television: A New Chapter
Caitríona Balfe’s return to television after Outlander is a big deal, but what’s even more intriguing is her role as both star and executive producer. This level of involvement suggests a deep personal investment in the project. Personally, I think Balfe’s ability to balance strength and vulnerability will be key to making Rose a relatable protagonist. Her character’s struggle to balance her professional obsession with her personal life feels eerily relevant in today’s hyper-connected world.
What this really suggests is that Ascension isn’t just a horror series—it’s a character study wrapped in a chilling mystery. Balfe’s performance will likely be the anchor that keeps viewers invested, even as the story ventures into darker territory.
The Broader Implications: Why ‘Ascension’ Matters
If Ascension succeeds, it could mark a shift in how streaming platforms approach horror. Apple TV+ has already shown a willingness to invest in high-concept, auteur-driven projects like Severance and Disclaimer. Ascension feels like a natural evolution of that strategy, blending genre thrills with intellectual depth.
But what makes this particularly fascinating is the timing. In an era where true crime documentaries and cult exposés dominate headlines, Ascension taps into a cultural obsession with the darker corners of human behavior. It’s not just entertainment; it’s a reflection of our collective curiosity about what drives people to extremes.
Final Thoughts: A Series to Watch
As someone who’s always been drawn to stories that blur the line between reality and nightmare, Ascension feels like a must-watch. Cuarón’s vision, Balfe’s talent, and the series’ thematic richness all point to something special. But what excites me most is the potential for Ascension to challenge its audience, to make us question our own beliefs and boundaries.
In a genre often criticized for relying on clichés, Ascension has the makings of a game-changer. Whether it lives up to the hype remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: this is a series that will demand your attention—and maybe even your soul.
